Leicester

How to Get to Leicester

Leicester is well-connected to the UK rail and bus networks. Please note that Leicester does not use a "zone-based" ticketing system like London; you simply purchase a ticket for your specific destination.

From Airport

• East Midlands Airport (EMA): The most direct option is the Skylink bus, which runs 24/7. It departs from the airport Coach Park and arrives at St Margaret’s Bus Station in Leicester city center.
  • Journey time: Approximately 55 minutes.
  • Price: ~€4.50 (£3.80).
  • Payment: You can pay the driver via contactless credit card or cash (exact change is recommended).
• Birmingham Airport (BHX): Take the train from Birmingham International station (connected to the terminal by a free Air-Rail link). You will typically change at Birmingham New Street for a direct service to Leicester.
  • Journey time: Approximately 75–90 minutes.
  • Price: Varies by booking time, typically €15–€30.
  • Payment: Purchase tickets at the station machines (English option available, accepts credit/debit cards) or via the National Rail app.

From City Center

• Walking: Leicester Railway Station is centrally located on London Road. It is a simple 10–15 minute walk from the Clock Tower or Highcross Shopping Centre.
• Local Bus: Numerous city bus routes stop directly on London Road in front of the station. Check the local Arriva or First Bus apps for real-time arrivals.
• Taxi: An official taxi rank is located directly outside the main station entrance.

By Taxi/Car

• From East Midlands Airport: A taxi or private hire vehicle takes about 30–40 minutes depending on traffic. Expect to pay approximately €60–€90 (£50–£75). Always use licensed operators.

Leicester station offers a straightforward and manageable layout for first-time visitors. The station is a through-station featuring four platforms, which are arranged across two wide island platforms. Think of this as two long, parallel strips of boarding areas; Platforms 1 and 2 share one island, while Platforms 3 and 4 share the other. Because the entire station is compact, you will not need to navigate complex wings or multiple levels to find your train.

All four platforms serve as vital links for the East Midlands rail network and beyond. You will primarily find East Midlands Railway and CrossCountry services operating here. Whether you are heading south toward London St Pancras or north toward destinations like Nottingham, Sheffield, and Lincoln, the trains will arrive at one of these four tracks. Because the platform layout is linear and simple, there are no confusing suffixes like "A" or "B" to worry about.

To reach your train, you will enter through the main concourse on London Road. Once you pass through the automatic ticket barriers, you will use the station’s overbridge to access the platforms. The station is fully accessible, featuring lifts to all platforms, making it easy to move between the concourse and the boarding areas, even if you are traveling with heavy luggage.

As this is a smaller, four-platform station, you do not need to worry about long transfer times. From the moment you clear the ticket barriers, you can reach any platform in just two to three minutes by walking at a leisurely pace. The simplicity of the layout means that the biggest "trick" is simply checking the electronic departure boards in the main concourse or on the overbridge to confirm which platform your specific train is departing from. Once you have that number, follow the clear overhead signs, and you will find your platform directly below. It is a very intuitive setup, designed to get you on your way quickly without the stress of navigating a massive railway hub.

Navigating a new city can be daunting, but Leicester railway station is quite manageable once you know the ropes. I wish someone had told me these insider tips before my first visit.

Before You Arrive

• Don't rely on paper tickets: Download the National Rail app or a specific train operating company app (like East Midlands Railway) to keep your ticket digital on your phone. It saves you from fumbling with physical slips at the ticket barriers.
• Book in advance: If you know your travel times, book "Advance" tickets online. They are significantly cheaper than buying at the station on the day of travel, though they lock you into a specific train.
• Check for football: If you are traveling on a Saturday, quickly check if Leicester City has a home match. The station can become exceptionally crowded and loud with football fans, so you might prefer to plan your arrival or departure for a calmer time if possible.

At the Station

• Facilities: The station has restrooms located on platforms 1/2 and 3/4. Note that some accessible toilets require a RADAR key, which you can request from the duty manager at the end of platform 3/4.
• Food and Drink: Inside, you’ll find convenience shops like WHSmith and cafes like Costa Coffee. For a wider, often cheaper selection, step out onto London Road where you will find a variety of local fast food and restaurants.
• Accessibility: The station is a Category A access station with step-free access to the main entrance and lifts to all platforms. If you need assistance with luggage or mobility, staff are available to help from 05:20 to 01:00.
• WiFi: Public WiFi is available at the station to help you check your journey details.

Common Mistakes

• Don't ignore the barriers: You must scan your ticket to enter and exit the station. Keep your ticket or digital QR code easily accessible until you are completely out of the station.
• Platform changes: While electronic boards are reliable, platforms can change. Check the departure screens when you arrive, then check again about 20–30 minutes before your train is due. Don't assume the platform you saw online hours ago is still correct.
• Ticket machine confusion: Not all machines are the same. If you need to pay by card, ensure you are using a machine that accepts your specific type (Visa/Mastercard/Contactless). If you are uncertain about your ticket or route, don't panic—the station staff are very helpful and happy to assist nervous travelers.

Through station serving Leicester, United Kingdom. Originally opened in 1840 by the Midland Counties Railway, the station underwent major rebuilds in 1894 and 1978. It stands as a vital rail connection on the Midland Main Line, facilitating regional and local train services that link passengers to major destinations including London St Pancras, Birmingham, Sheffield, and Nottingham. With over 5.5 million passenger entries and exits recorded in the 2024/2025 period, it remains a heavily utilized transit point for the region.

First-time visitors may wonder if the station is overwhelming; however, it features a straightforward layout with four platforms. The station is well-signposted with clear English-language displays to assist with navigation. While the station is efficient, travelers should be aware that platform assignments can occasionally change 30 to 60 minutes before departure. It is advisable to monitor the electronic information screens upon arrival or listen for station announcements to confirm your platform. The facility offers step-free access to the main entrance and provides lifts to all platforms, ensuring a manageable experience for those carrying luggage. Allow a little extra time to familiarize yourself with the concourse, and you will find the transition between train services simple and reliable.