Canterbury to Leicester train with East Midlands Railway

Thu, Jun 25
+ Add return
East Midlands Railway
Southeastern
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
East Midlands Railway
Southeastern
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Canterbury to Leicester

Showing times and prices for Jun 25

Cheapest price

$40

Average price

$96

Fastest journey

2 h 23 m

Average duration

2 h 31 m

Trains per day

6

Distance

214 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Canterbury to Leicester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Canterbury to Leicester will cost around $96 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $40.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Canterbury to Leicester without transferring at least once.

  • East Midlands RailwayC21643+SoutheasternP85648
    9:21 AM2h24
    Canterbury West (CBW)
    11:45 AMLeicester station (LEI)
    $401One-way
    1 transfer
  • East Midlands RailwayC21657+SoutheasternP85658
    10:21 AM2h24
    Canterbury West (CBW)
    12:45 PMLeicester station (LEI)
    $401One-way
    1 transfer
  • East Midlands RailwayW70975+SoutheasternP85661
    10:54 AM2h41
    Canterbury West (CBW)
    1:35 PMLeicester station (LEI)
    $471One-way
    1 transfer
  • East Midlands RailwayC21762+SoutheasternP85651
    9:54 AM2h41
    Canterbury West (CBW)
    12:35 PMLeicester station (LEI)
    $471One-way
    1 transfer
  • East Midlands RailwayW70964+SoutheasternP90239_P90331 · P85906
    8:33 AM3h03
    Canterbury West (CBW)
    11:36 AMLeicester station (LEI)
    $1721One-way
    2 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Canterbury to Leicester

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Canterbury to Leicester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $20. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 11m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $20, and a train costs an average of $64.

Distance: 132 miles (214 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Bus
Driving

$72

Average price

$28

Average price

Cheapest

$65

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

2h 41m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 11m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 51m

Average total duration

5h 21m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 10m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

East Midlands Railway

Most popular train company

National Express

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Canterbury to Leicester is a bus with an average price of $28 (€23).

This is compared to other travel options from Canterbury to Leicester:

A bus is $44 (€37) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Canterbury to Leicester costing on average $72 (€60).

The fastest way to travel from Canterbury to Leicester is by train with an average journey time of 2h 11m.

Other travel options to Leicester take longer:

Bus takes on average 5h 21m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Canterbury and Leicester including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Canterbury to Leicester among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.

You'll arrive about 59m sooner (2h 11m by train vs 3h 10m by car). Tickets start at around $72 (€60) compared to roughly $65 (€54) in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.

Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Canterbury to Leicester train times

The table below shows live departures for Canterbury to Leicester trains for today, Wednesday, June 24. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
SoutheasternP85639+East Midlands RailwayW70861
On time
8:23 AM Canterbury West (CBW)
2h23
10:46 AM Leicester station (LEI)
1 transfer
East Midlands RailwayW70964+SoutheasternP90239_P90331 · P85906
On time
8:33 AM Canterbury West (CBW)
3h03
11:36 AM Leicester station (LEI)
2 transfers
SoutheasternP85648+East Midlands RailwayC21643
On time
9:21 AM Canterbury West (CBW)
2h24
11:45 AM Leicester station (LEI)
1 transfer
East Midlands RailwayC21762+SoutheasternP85651
On time
9:54 AM Canterbury West (CBW)
2h41
12:35 PM Leicester station (LEI)
1 transfer
East Midlands RailwayC21657+SoutheasternP85658
On time
10:21 AM Canterbury West (CBW)
2h24
12:45 PM Leicester station (LEI)
1 transfer
SoutheasternP85661+East Midlands RailwayW70975
On time
10:54 AM Canterbury West (CBW)
2h41
1:35 PM Leicester station (LEI)
1 transfer

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Canterbury to Leicester by train or bus

Compare train and bus prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.

Thu
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26
Sat
Jun 27
Sun
Jun 28
Mon
Jun 29
Tue
Jun 30
Wed
Jul 01

Why should you book Canterbury to Leicester trains with Omio?

East Midlands Railway as well as Southeastern offer trains services from Canterbury to Leicester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Canterbury to Leicester.

Why book with Omio vs East Midlands Railway?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for East Midlands Railway, but also compare tickets for the likes of Southeastern to find the best option for your trip from Canterbury to Leicester.
  • Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
  • Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare East Midlands Railway with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Canterbury to Leicester.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Rome2rio?

  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Canterbury to Leicester.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Canterbury to Leicester

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Canterbury to Leicester run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 11m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $64 (€53) but you can travel from only $20 (€17) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 04:41, the last at 22:23. The fastest train covers the 132 miles (214 km) distance in 2h 24m.

Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $20 (€17)
Distance
132 miles (214 km)
Average train duration
2h 11m
Cheapest ticket price
$64 (€53)
Trains per day
6
Fastest train
2h 24m
First train
4:41 AM
Last train
10:23 PM
Cheapest Month
Aug
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Jul - Sep
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Sat
Best time to book
7 days
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $20 (€17)

Train companies: East Midlands Railway, Southeastern from Canterbury to Leicester trainsEast Midlands Railway, Southeastern trains will get you between Canterbury and Leicester from $20 (€17). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

East Midlands Railway

About
East Midlands Trains is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London to the East Midlands, Yorkshire, and the North West. East Midlands Trains operates a fleet of Class 158, Class 156, Class 170, Class 222 and Class 180 diesel multiple units, as well as Class 222 Meridian electric multiple units. East Midlands Trains also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for East Midlands Trains are London to Nottingham, Sheffield, and Leeds.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 24m
Cheapest Price
$64 (€53)
East Midlands Railway frequency
6 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 piece of hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee. Free for Advance ticket holders
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs must be on lead and require a ticket (£6 for day ticket)
Quiet zone

Southeastern

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 11m
Cheapest Price
$119 (€98)
Southeastern frequency
16 a day

FAQs: Trains from Canterbury to Leicester

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Canterbury to Leicester by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Leicester, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Canterbury to Leicester can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $64 (€53), while the average price is around $72 (€60).
The train from Canterbury to Leicester takes 2h 24m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Canterbury to Leicester is 132 miles (214 km).
The first train from Canterbury to Leicester leaves at 4:41 AM.
The last train from Canterbury to Leicester leaves at 10:23 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Canterbury to Leicester.
There is no direct train service currently available from Canterbury to Leicester.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Canterbury to Leicester.
The train station in Canterbury that goes to Leicester is Canterbury West (CBW), which connects to Leicester station (LEI).
The cheapest way to get from Canterbury to Leicester is by bus, with a cost of around $20 (€17).
The train journey from Canterbury to Leicester offers a mix of urban and rural views, passing through the scenic landscapes of the Kent countryside and the picturesque areas of the Midlands, though it primarily focuses on efficiency and connectivity rather than scenic appeal.
A day trip from Canterbury to Leicester is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 24m. There are 6 train trips per day available for this route, covering a distance of 132 miles (214 km).
Typically, 2 to 3 days are sufficient to explore Leicester's main attractions, including the King Richard III Visitor Centre, Leicester Cathedral, and the National Space Centre.
Yes, you can take the train from Canterbury to Leicester.
Since neither Canterbury nor Leicester are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United Kingdom and United Kingdom. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
Popular day trips by train from Leicester include Nottingham, Birmingham, Derby, Loughborough, Beeston.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Canterbury to Leicester among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Yes, rail passes such as the BritRail Pass are valid on most trains within the United Kingdom, offering unlimited travel on participating train operators for a set period.
The currency used in the United Kingdom is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). For travelers, using a card is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially in cities and for transportation tickets, though carrying some cash can be useful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Leicester, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets and public transport. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers who are not licensed and street vendors selling counterfeit goods. Staying vigilant in busy spots and using licensed services helps ensure a safer visit.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Canterbury to Leicester

Most Canterbury to Leicester trains use the Canterbury West to Leicester station pair. Use this guide to compare Canterbury and Leicester train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Canterbury
Arrival train stations in Leicester

Which Canterbury station do trains to Leicester leave from?

Trains from Canterbury to Leicester leave from Canterbury West. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Canterbury city centre at Canterbury West station, Station Road West, Canterbury, Kent, CT2 8AN.
Canterbury WestCanterbury West station, Station Road West, Canterbury, Kent, CT2 8AN+44 3303339232ParkingDiningAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Canterbury West from Canterbury city centre

Bus21, 400, 401, Uni1, Uni2 · 14m · $4 · every ~22 min

Canterbury West train station facilities and services

Canterbury West has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Canterbury West.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Canterbury West. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Helpline Contact: 0345 322 7021 or Text relay 18001 0345 322 7021 Freephone 0800 783 4524 or Text Relay 18001 0800 783 4524, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Canterbury West: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Canterbury West: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Canterbury West: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A. This station has step free access to all platforms - Access to all platforms and interchange via lifts and stairs, Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are not wheelchair accessible, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available to book, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: two within concourse, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Assistance/Help available from station staff from First to Last trains, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.

Canterbury EastCanterbury East station, Station Road East, Canterbury, Kent, CT1 2RB+44 3303339232ParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Canterbury East from Canterbury city centre

Bus649 · 9m

Canterbury East train station facilities and services

Canterbury East has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Canterbury East.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

ATMs are available at Canterbury East.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Canterbury East. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Helpline Contact: 0345 322 7021 or Text relay 18001 0345 322 7021 Freephone 0800 783 4524 or Text Relay 18001 0800 783 4524, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Canterbury East: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Canterbury East: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Canterbury East: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A. This station has step free access to all platforms - Access to all platforms and interchange via lifts and stairs, Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are not wheelchair accessible, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available to book, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: The Ticket Vending Machines's can only be accessed when the station building is open as they are in the booking hall, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.

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