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Trains from Preston (Lancs) to
Leicester

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Preston (Lancs) to Leicester by train

Planning a train journey from Preston (Lancs) to Leicester? The trip usually takes about 3hrs 29 mins, covering approximately 101 miles (163 kilometres). With roughly 40 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options to suit your schedule. Booking your tickets ahead of time can snag you fares as low as £11.00, offering an economical choice for savvy travelers.

Preston (Lancs) to Leicester Key Stats

Arrival Station

Leicester

Departure Station

Preston (Lancs)

Frequency

40trains
per day

Journey Time

from2hrs 52 mins

Changes

2-2no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

05:25 / 00:43

Distance

101miles
(163 km)

4 Routes

6 Train Operators

Prices

from£11.00

Travelling from Preston (Lancs) to Leicester by Train

Jump on a Train from Preston (Lancs) to Leicester – It's Quicker Than You Expect!

Considering a train trip from Preston (Lancs) to Leicester? You’re in the right place, and the journey is faster than you might think!

Typically, the trip takes about 3hrs 29 mins. If you're rushing or eager to reach Preston (Lancs), the quickest trains can get you there in just 2hrs 52 mins. With approximately 40 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options. This picturesque 101-mile (163 km) route usually requires just one change, with East Midlands Railway, First TransPennine Express, Northern Rail, Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, West Midlands Trains providing comfortable seating and ample luggage space – because being cramped isn't anyone's idea of fun!

The best news? By booking early, you can find tickets starting at just £11.00, a significant saving compared to last-minute purchases. To save even more, consider traveling during Off-Peak hours or using a Railcard to keep your expenses down.

Ready to grab those low-cost tickets? Use our Journey Planner to find the latest discounts and keep your budget happy. Explore more travel tips below or check our timetable for current train schedules. All aboard to Leicester!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Preston (Lancs) and Leicester

Curious about your trip from Preston (Lancs) to Leicester? We've put together answers to the most commonly asked questions from our customers to make planning your journey easier.

How long does it take to travel between Preston (Lancs) and Leicester by train?

The travel time between Preston (Lancs) and Leicester by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 3hrs 29 mins & the fastest journey takes 2hrs 52 mins.

What's the fastest journey time between Preston (Lancs) and Leicester by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Preston (Lancs) to Leicester is 2hrs 52 mins.

How much does the train from Preston (Lancs) to Leicester cost?

Train ticket prices from Preston (Lancs) to Leicester can start from as little as £11.00 when you book in advance. The cost of tickets can vary depending on the time of day, route and class you book and are usually more expensive if you book on the day.

What are the departure and arrival times for trains between Preston (Lancs) and Leicester?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Preston (Lancs) and Leicester vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 40 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 05:25, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:43.

What is the difference between first class and standard class on trains between Preston (Lancs) and Leicester?

First class tickets on trains between Preston (Lancs) and Leicester typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.

What amenities are available on trains between Preston (Lancs) and Leicester?

Amenities on trains between Preston (Lancs) and Leicester can include free Wi-Fi, power outlets, onboard catering, and comfortable seating.

What is the cheapest way to travel from Preston (Lancs) to Leicester by train?

By booking your tickets on traintickets.com! There are many ways to save on the cost of train travel between Preston (Lancs) and Leicester. On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to Leicester, and can save you up to 90%! Simply search for your journey, and be assured we have found you the best possible price.

Is it possible to take a direct train from Preston (Lancs) to Leicester?

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Preston (Lancs) & Leicester. However, there are 40 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Preston (Lancs) to Leicester?

East Midlands Railway, First TransPennine Express, Northern Rail, Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry and West Midlands Trains are the main train operating companies running services between Preston (Lancs) and Leicester.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between Preston (Lancs) and Leicester?

Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between Preston (Lancs) and Leicester, but there may be limits on the number of bags or the size and weight of your luggage.

When are Preston (Lancs) to Leicester Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Preston (Lancs) to Leicester on Tuesday 29th April 2025, with our handy timetable below.

Alternatively, you can view the full day's schedule or search for a different date here!

Tuesday 29th April
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
12:18 Preston (Lancs)14:51 Leicester2 changesCrewe
Nuneaton
2 hrs 33 mins Get Tickets
12:18 Preston (Lancs)15:10 Leicester1 changeBirmingham New Street
2 hrs 52 mins Get Tickets
12:21 Preston (Lancs)15:10 Leicester2 changesManchester Piccadilly
Nuneaton
2 hrs 49 mins Get Tickets
13:18 Preston (Lancs)15:51 Leicester2 changesCrewe
Nuneaton
2 hrs 33 mins Get Tickets
13:18 Preston (Lancs)16:10 Leicester1 changeBirmingham New Street
2 hrs 52 mins Get Tickets
13:21 Preston (Lancs)16:10 Leicester2 changesManchester Piccadilly
Nuneaton
2 hrs 49 mins Get Tickets
14:18 Preston (Lancs)16:51 Leicester2 changesCrewe
Nuneaton
2 hrs 33 mins Get Tickets
14:18 Preston (Lancs)17:12 Leicester1 changeBirmingham New Street
2 hrs 54 mins Get Tickets
14:20 Preston (Lancs)17:12 Leicester2 changesManchester Piccadilly
Nuneaton
2 hrs 52 mins Get Tickets
15:18 Preston (Lancs)17:54 Leicester2 changesCrewe
Nuneaton
2 hrs 36 mins Get Tickets
15:18 Preston (Lancs)18:16 Leicester1 changeBirmingham New Street
2 hrs 58 mins Get Tickets
15:20 Preston (Lancs)18:16 Leicester2 changesManchester Piccadilly
Nuneaton
2 hrs 56 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Preston (Lancs) to Leicester journeys?

From booking in Advance, to our FairSplits, here are our tips for you to find the best price

Advance Tickets

A single ticket for one journey leaving at a specific date and time.

The rule is: the sooner you book the cheaper they are. Usually the cheapest, but least flexible.

Advance fares from Preston (Lancs) to Leicester start from as little as £11.00

Off-Peak & Super Off-Peak Tickets

Offering greater flexibility than Advances, Off-Peak tickets offer travel during less busy times of day trading off more flexibility in the Off-Peak windows but for still discounted fares.

Off Peak fares from Preston (Lancs) to Leicester start from £79.50 one way, or £81.00 return

Anytime Tickets

Anytime tickets are fully flexible allowing travel at any time of the day. Brilliant if you don’t want the pressure of clock watching, returning when you want

Anytime fares from Preston (Lancs) to Leicester are available for £107.10 one way, or £132.30 return

With our FairSplit technology, you can save up to 90% on the cost of train travel.

The biggest saving our customers have made travelling from Preston (Lancs) to Leicester is £19.05 & the average saving on this route is £8.16!

Travelling in a group? We can save you even more!

Unlike other split ticketing sites, you can enter multiple railcards in a single search on traintickets.com. We will find you the best price using all possible combinations of your railcards in conjunction with our split ticketing technology & GroupSave.

When you do a search on traintickets.com we check all the cheapest prices automatically

Everything you need to know about Preston (Lancs) Station

Welcome to Preston (Lancs) Train Station

Whether you're setting off for a scenic trip through the UK, commuting for work, or heading to visit friends and family, Preston (Lancs) train station acts as a gateway to your journey. Situated in the vibrant heart of Lancashire, Preston station offers a comprehensive range of facilities that cater to your travel needs, making it a crucial hub for both local and long-distance travel.

The station is efficiently managed by Avanti West Coast and ensures a seamless experience for travelers, thanks to its extensive amenities and services that cater to millions of passengers each year. From ticketing to refreshments, everything is designed to make your travel as comfortable and convenient as possible.

Station Facilities & Amenities

Preston (Lancs) train station is well-equipped to handle the demands of modern travel. The ticket office is open from early morning until late at night, and with ticket machines available, it's convenient to purchase and collect your tickets, including those bought online. While smartcards aren't issued at the station, helpful staff are always available to assist you at help points, information points, and the ticket office itself.

Accessibility is a key strength of the station, with step-free access throughout, ramps for train access, and accessible ticket machines. Waiting rooms with automatic doors are located on platforms 3 and 4. Although there's no first-class lounge, seating and accessible toilets are available, providing a comfortable environment for everyone. CCTV coverage enhances the safety and security of the station premises.

For those needing to stay connected, the station provides accessible pay phones, although public Wi-Fi isn't available. Should you wish to explore local amenities or grab a quick refreshment, a selection of shops and eateries are conveniently located within the station.

Onward Travel Options

The station is a well-connected transport node that offers a variety of onward travel options. Taxis are readily accessible outside the station entrance, and a freephone service is available within the ticket office area to book them. Preston's local bus services also provide an efficient means of travel within and around the city, albeit with no Metro services available.

Should your journey require car hire, the nearest Eurocar branch is located approximately half a mile from the station. For the environmentally conscious or recreation-minded, a cycle hire is available from Leisure Lakes Bikes, offering a convenient bike shop adjacent to Platform 7. Additionally, the station allows easy pick-up and drop-off for Rail Replacement Services at the short-stay car park on Butler Street.

Popular Destinations from Preston

Preston station serves as a gateway to a plethora of bustling cities and tranquil towns across the UK. With direct routes to major cities like London Euston and Manchester Piccadilly, the station provides fast and frequent services that cater to both business and leisure travelers. Whether you're heading off to the seaside charm of Blackpool North or the cultural richness of Edinburgh, you'll find the station's connections both comprehensive and convenient.

Don't forget, journeys to closer destinations like Liverpool Lime Street or Manchester Airport can be a breeze with excellent train services. Explore more rural settings such as Blackburn or plan your next adventure to vibrant Glasgow Central. Whatever your destination, Preston's connectivity ensures you're never too far from your next adventure.

Your Ticket to Exploring

Whether you're a seasoned commuter or an enthusiastic explorer, Preston (Lancs) train station opens the door to an exciting world of travel opportunities. It stands as a testament to Lancashire's vibrant rail history while seamlessly integrating modern conveniences for today's traveler.

As each train departs, the promise of discovering new places or reconnecting with loved ones begins. Make Preston (Lancs) your starting point for countless journeys, and don't hesitate to snag your travel tickets to make the most of your trip. With a wealth of connections and a rich tapestry of destinations at your disposal, there's no better time than now to explore the wonders that lie beyond Preston's tracks.

Everything you need to know about Leicester Station

Welcome to Leicester Train Station

Leicester Train Station is more than just a stop on your journey—it's a gateway to historical charm and modern delights of the city. Situated right in the heart of Leicester, this station is a bustling hub of activity, offering a seamless connection for travelers heading in and out. Whether you're a seasoned commuter or a first-time visitor, Leicester Station ensures a smooth travel experience with all the facilities you might need. Before diving into the grandeur of Leicester itself, the station offers a taste of the city's hospitality and infrastructure.

Station Facilities and Amenities

Leicester Train Station takes pride in its comprehensive facilities designed to make passengers feel at ease. For those purchasing tickets, the station offers a well-staffed ticket office open Monday to Saturday from 5:20 am to 10:30 pm, and on Sundays from 7:15 am to 10:30 pm. Additionally, there are accessible ticket machines available to ensure everyone's convenience. Smartcard holders can validate their cards at this station, making it a tech-friendly place for your travels.

The station prioritizes accessibility, providing step-free access across all platforms and key facilities, which is of tremendous help for wheelchair users and those needing extra assistance. Heated waiting rooms, seated areas, and a first-class lounge offer a cozy place to relax while waiting for your train. Despite this, the station lacks accessible toilets, which is something to bear in mind when planning your visit.

For those who enjoy a bit of shopping or grabbing a quick bite, there are refreshment facilities, ATMs, and shopping options within the station. Although there isn't a currency exchange, free Wi-Fi and payphones are available to keep you connected. Regarding security, both the station and its parking facilities are under CCTV surveillance, providing peace of mind while you're on the move.

Getting Around: Transport Links

Navigating through and beyond Leicester is made easy thanks to the station's integrated transport connections. Local buses and taxis are readily available right outside the station front, ensuring onward travel is straightforward. For those flying out, there's a regular Skylink service linking St Margaret's Bus Station to East Midlands Airport. Even when disruptions arise, a Rail Replacement Service is in place, ensuring your journey continues without a hitch.

Where Can You Travel From Leicester?

Leicester boasts connections to a myriad of destinations. Whether you're heading to the capital with trains to London St Pancras International or delving into the vibrant city of Nottingham, your journey starts here. Explore nearby hubs like Birmingham New Street or enjoy the charm of Market Harborough and Loughborough. Feeling adventurous? Venture further on to Sheffield, Manchester Piccadilly, or even Coventry.

This station is a key point on the East Midlands Railway, making it highly accessible for those looking to explore different corners of the UK. Its strategic location means you can embark on journeys to both northern gems and southern spectacles with ease.

In Closing

Leicester Train Station is not just a means to get from point A to B. It's a starting point for adventures, a rendezvous spot for business trips, and a site for discovering new places. With its modern amenities catering to the needs of diverse travelers, it makes the station experience as enjoyable and efficient as possible. Whether you're planning a visit to the dynamic Leicester or further afield, traveling by train ensures that leisurely exploration and punctual commutes are part of your journey. Making your travel arrangements from Leicester Station guarantees a gratifying start. Ready to travel? Leicester awaits.

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Preston (Lancs)