- Must visit
Leicester Museum & Art Gallery
Leicester's flagship museum and gallery, known for dinosaurs, German Expressionism and broad collections for first-time visitors.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cheltenham to Leicester
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
€95
Average ticket price on Sep 20
€114
Fastest journey on Sep 20
1 h 30 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
1 h 32 m
Trains on Sep 20
23
Distance
105 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cheltenham to Leicester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cheltenham to Leicester will cost around €114 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €95.
Fast trains
On Sun, Sep 20, we found 23 trains from Cheltenham to Leicester, including 1 direct services.
On Sun, Sep 20 the direct trains cover the 105 km distance in an average of 1 h 32 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 30 m .
On Sun, Sep 20 the slowest trains will take 1 h 34 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
8:59 PM1h49Cheltenham10:48 PMLeicester€951One-way0 transfers- 10:11 AM1h59Cheltenham12:10 PMLeicester€1101One-way1 transfer
- 11:11 AM2h05Cheltenham1:16 PMLeicester€1101One-way1 transfer
- 12:11 PM2h03Cheltenham2:14 PMLeicester€1101One-way1 transfer
- 12:59 PM1h49Cheltenham2:48 PMLeicester€1101One-way1 transfer
- 7:40 PM1h30Cheltenham9:10 PMLeicester€1101One-way1 transfer
- 4:39 PM1h31Cheltenham6:10 PMLeicester€1101One-way1 transfer
- 6:40 PM1h31Cheltenham8:11 PMLeicester€1101One-way1 transfer
- 3:40 PM1h32Cheltenham5:12 PMLeicester€1101One-way1 transfer
- 1:40 PM1h34Cheltenham3:14 PMLeicester€1101One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Cheltenham to Leicester
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cheltenham to Leicester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of €22 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 6m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €22, while a train costs an average of €50.
Distance: 65 miles (105 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
€50 Average price | €22 Average price Cheapest | €23 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 6m Average total duration Fastest 1h 36m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 19m Average total duration 3h 49m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 56m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Cheltenham to Leicester is a bus with an average price of €22.
This is compared to other travel options from Cheltenham to Leicester:
A bus is €27 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cheltenham to Leicester costing on average €50.
The fastest way to travel from Cheltenham to Leicester is by train with an average journey time of 1h 36m.
Other travel options to Leicester take longer:
Bus takes on average 3h 49m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cheltenham and Leicester including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cheltenham 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 20m sooner (1h 36m by train vs 1h 56m by car). Tickets start at around €50 compared to roughly €23 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
Cheltenham to Leicester train times
The table below shows live departures for Cheltenham to Leicester trains for tomorrow, Sunday, September 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10:11 AM Cheltenham | 1h59 | 12:10 PM Leicester | 1 transfer | |
| 11:11 AM Cheltenham | 2h05 | 1:16 PM Leicester | 1 transfer | |
| 12:11 PM Cheltenham | 2h03 | 2:14 PM Leicester | 1 transfer | |
| 12:59 PM Cheltenham | 1h49 | 2:48 PM Leicester | 1 transfer | |
| 1:11 PM Cheltenham | 2h20 | 3:31 PM Leicester | 1 transfer | |
| 1:40 PM Cheltenham | 1h34 | 3:14 PM Leicester | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cheltenham to Leicester by bus or train
Compare bus and train 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.
Sun
Sep 20
Sep 20
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Sep 21
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Sep 22
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Sep 26
Sep 26
Why should you book Cheltenham to Leicester trains with Omio?
CrossCountry operates all trains services from Cheltenham to Leicester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cheltenham to Leicester.
Why book with Omio vs CrossCountry?
- 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 CrossCountry with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cheltenham to Leicester.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Cheltenham to Leicester.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cheltenham to Leicester
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cheltenham to Leicester run on average 9 times per day, taking around 1h 36m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €29 but you can travel from only €10 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 05:10, the last at 21:17. The fastest train covers the 65 miles (105 km) distance in 1h 31m.
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 €10
Distance 65 miles (105 km) |
Average train duration 1h 36m |
Cheapest ticket price €29 |
Trains per day 9 |
Fastest train 1h 31m |
First train 5:10 AM |
Last train 9:17 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 28 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 €10
Train companies: CrossCountry from Cheltenham to Leicester trainsCrossCountry trains will get you between Cheltenham and Leicester from €10. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
CrossCountry
About
CrossCountry is a fast-speed train operator in the United Kingdom, offering both express and regional services across the country. Express services, such as the CrossCountry Voyager and XC Trains, provide quick and comfortable journeys with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. Regional services, including the CrossCountry Regional and Regional Express, make more local stops for a leisurely trip. Ticket options include Standard Class and First Class, as well as Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak fares to suit different budgets and schedules. Popular routes include London to Birmingham, Manchester to Edinburgh, and Bristol to Reading.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average CrossCountry Duration
1h 31m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
€29
CrossCountry frequency
6 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Leicester
Things to do in Leicester
Discover the best of Leicester — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Leicester trip today.
- Must visit
King Richard III Visitor Centre
Dedicated to the 2012 discovery of Richard III, this award-winning museum uses immersive displays to tell a remarkable royal story.
- Recommended
Abbey Pumping Station
A grand Victorian pumping station with working steam heritage displays, making industrial history surprisingly engaging for all ages.
- Must visit
Old Town
Revived historic quarter around Leicester Cathedral and the Richard III story, packed with lanes, heritage sites and independent venues.
- Must visit
Abbey Park
Leicester's best-known green space, offering formal gardens, boating, sports facilities and a lively urban park atmosphere.
- Recommended
Town Hall Square
Main civic square framed by key institutions and events, useful as a central meeting point and starting place for exploring.
Melton Mowbray Pork Pie
A flaky pastry pie from nearby Melton Mowbray, traditionally made with uncured pork. It is one of Leicestershire’s best-known foods and widely eaten in Leicester.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Red Leicester Cheese
A hard, crumbly red cheese from Leicestershire with a nutty, mellow flavour. It is one of England’s oldest named cheeses and a proud regional staple.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Stilton
A blue-veined Stilton-style cheese made in Leicestershire. Rich and creamy, it is strongly linked to the county’s cheesemaking tradition.
John's House
Modern British fine dining with tasting menus in an intimate setting. One of Leicester’s most acclaimed restaurants for special occasions.
Herb
Well-known modern Indian restaurant serving refined regional dishes and grills in a smart, contemporary dining room.
Shivalli
Long-established vegetarian Indian restaurant on the Golden Mile, known for Gujarati snacks, thalis and a lively casual atmosphere.
British pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while buses and casual meals stay fairly affordable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.50-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up for taxis. Cafe tipping is not expected, but small change is appreciated.
First Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £4.80
To the city center
Leicester Railway Station -> Leicester City Centre
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 8 min
- Most Leicester buses accept contactless card and mobile payments; tap or buy tickets in the official app before boarding.
- Leicester has no tram or metro system, so local public transport is mainly by bus operated by companies such as First Bus and Arriva.
FAQs: Trains from Cheltenham to Leicester
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cheltenham 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.
Train ticket prices from Cheltenham to Leicester can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €29, while the average price is around €50.
The train from Cheltenham to Leicester takes 1h 31m and runs 9 per day.
The distance by train from Cheltenham to Leicester is 65 miles (105 km).
The first train from Cheltenham to Leicester leaves at 5:10 AM.
The last train from Cheltenham to Leicester leaves at 9:17 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cheltenham to Leicester.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cheltenham to Leicester.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cheltenham to Leicester.
The train station in Cheltenham that goes to Leicester is Cheltenham Spa (CNM), which connects to Leicester station (LEI).
The cheapest way to get from Cheltenham to Leicester is by bus, with a cost of around €10.
The train journey from Cheltenham to Leicester offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, with views of the English countryside, rolling hills, and charming towns along the route.
A day trip from Cheltenham to Leicester is possible with a travel time of 1h 31m, a distance of 65 miles (105 km), and a frequency of 7 trains per day.
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 Cheltenham to Leicester.
Since neither Cheltenham 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 Cheltenham 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 Cheltenham to Leicester
Most Cheltenham to Leicester trains use the Cheltenham Spa to Leicester station pair. Use this guide to compare Cheltenham and Leicester train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Cheltenham
Arrival train stations in Leicester
Which Cheltenham station do trains to Leicester leave from?
Trains from Cheltenham to Leicester leave from Cheltenham Spa. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Cheltenham city centre at Cheltenham Spa Railway Station, Queens Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL51 8NP, United Kingdom.
Cheltenham SpaCheltenham Spa Railway Station, Queens Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL51 8NP, United Kingdom+44 345 165 2030
City-centre transport
Getting to Cheltenham Spa from Cheltenham city centre
Cheltenham Spa is 1 km from Cheltenham city centre. Public transport options include:
BusD, E, G · 7m · €4 · every ~25 min
M1 · 8m
Cheltenham Spa train station facilities and services
Cheltenham Spa has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: The Railway Inn, The Coconut Tree
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Cheltenham Spa. Information desks are located near the main entrance.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Cheltenham Spa. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cheltenham Spa: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Cheltenham Spa: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cheltenham Spa: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Queens Hotel Cheltenham, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cheltenham, Hotel du Vin & Bistro Cheltenham.
Which Leicester station do trains from Cheltenham arrive at?
Trains from Cheltenham to Leicester arrive at Leicester. Leicester is 0 miles (1 km) from Leicester city centre.
LeicesterLeicester station, London Road, Leicester, Leicestershire, LE2 0QB+44 8457125678
City-centre transport
Getting to Leicester from Leicester city centre
BusX7 · 4m · €2 · every ~3 min
16 · 7m · every ~6 min
Hop · 11m · €2 · every ~14 min
Leicester train station facilities and services
Leicester has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Leicester.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Leicester. ATMs are available at Leicester.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Leicester. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 08000 11 33 23, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Leicester: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Leicester: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Leicester: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category A access station. There is step free access to the main entrance and lifts to all platforms. Customers with wheelchairs who require assistance on graduated slopes should press the ticket gate 'assistance' button located at the bottom of the stairs near the self service ticket machines. To ensure availability of staff to assist, it is imperative that customers book assistance in advance. This station has tactile paving at the edge of all platforms and at the bottom of all staircases, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Most popular train connections from Cheltenham
More options for your journey from Cheltenham to Leicester
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Leicester and Cheltenham
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