- Must visit
Ipswich Museum
Ipswich’s main museum and gallery, covering local history, archaeology, art, and natural science in a major Victorian institution.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Leicester to Ipswich
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 15
Cheapest price on Sep 15
$134
Average ticket price on Sep 15
$137
Fastest journey on Sep 15
3 h 10 m
Average journey duration on Sep 15
3 h 13 m
Trains on Sep 15
2
Distance
168 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Leicester to Ipswich is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Leicester to Ipswich will cost around $137 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $134.
Fast trains
On Tue, Sep 15, we found 2 trains from Leicester to Ipswich, including 2 direct services.
On Tue, Sep 15 the direct trains cover the 168 km distance in an average of 3 h 13 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 10 m .
On Tue, Sep 15 the slowest trains will take 3 h 16 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.
2:12 PM3h16Leicester5:28 PMIpswich$1341One-way0 transfers- 8:18 AM3h10Leicester11:28 AMIpswich$1401One-way0 transfers
- 8:18 AM3h10Leicester11:28 AMIpswich$1401One-way0 transfers
- 2:12 PM3h16Leicester5:28 PMIpswich$1341One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Leicester to Ipswich
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Leicester to Ipswich among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $78 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 3m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $78, while a train costs an average of $158.
Distance: 104 miles (168 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$158 Average price | $78 Average price Cheapest | $45 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 3m Average total duration Fastest 2h 33m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 55m Average total duration 4h 25m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 35m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Leicester to Ipswich is a bus with an average price of $78.
This is compared to other travel options from Leicester to Ipswich:
A bus is $80 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Leicester to Ipswich costing on average $158.
The fastest way to travel from Leicester to Ipswich is by train with an average journey time of 2h 33m.
Other travel options to Ipswich take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 25m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Leicester and Ipswich including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Leicester to Ipswich 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 2m sooner (2h 33m by train vs 2h 35m by car). Tickets start at around $158 compared to roughly $45 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
Leicester to Ipswich train times
The table below shows live departures for Leicester to Ipswich trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, September 15. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:18 AM Leicester | 3h10 | 11:28 AM Ipswich | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Leicester to Ipswich 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.
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Why should you book Leicester to Ipswich trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as Greater Anglia or east_midlands_trains offer trains services from Leicester to Ipswich.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Leicester to Ipswich.
Why book with Omio vs CrossCountry?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for CrossCountry, but also compare tickets for the likes of Greater Anglia or east_midlands_trains to find the best option for your trip from Leicester to Ipswich.
- 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 train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Leicester to Ipswich.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Greater Anglia or east_midlands_trains to find the best option for your trip from Leicester to Ipswich.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Leicester to Ipswich.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Leicester to Ipswich
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Leicester to Ipswich run on average 7 times per day, taking around 2h 33m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $51 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 04:47, the last at 21:23. The fastest train covers the 104 miles (168 km) distance in 2h 19m.
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
Distance 104 miles (168 km) |
Average train duration 2h 33m |
Cheapest ticket price $51 |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 2h 19m |
First train 4:47 AM |
Last train 9:23 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 1 day |
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
Train companies: CrossCountry, Greater Anglia, East Midlands Railway from Leicester to Ipswich trainsCrossCountry, Greater Anglia, East Midlands Railway trains will get you between Leicester and Ipswich from $51. 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
2h 27m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
$51
CrossCountry frequency
2 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
Greater Anglia
About
Greater Anglia is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from commuter trains to intercity services. The commuter trains run at regular intervals throughout the day, while the intercity services run at peak times. The train types include the InterCity 125, InterCity 225, Class 90, Class 91, Class 360 and Class 379. The ticket types available are Standard, First Class and Advance. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, air conditioning and refreshment trolleys. The most popular routes for Greater Anglia are London Liverpool Street to Norwich, London Liverpool Street to Cambridge and London Liverpool Street to Ipswich.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Greater Anglia Duration
2h 19m
Cheapest Greater Anglia Price
$77
Greater Anglia frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
Two items of luggage per person included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar service on intercity routes with hot and cold drinks, snacks. No service on local routes.
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee. Free for First Class tickets.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs require a ticket (£6 flat fee). Guide dogs travel free.
Quiet zone
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 East Midlands Railway Duration
2h 22m
Cheapest East Midlands Railway Price
$149
East Midlands Railway frequency
3 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
Complete guide to Ipswich
Things to do in Ipswich
Discover the best of Ipswich — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Ipswich trip today.
- Must visit
Christchurch Mansion
Elegant mansion museum in Christchurch Park with period rooms, Ipswich treasures, and changing displays in a beautiful historic setting.
- Recommended
Ipswich Art Gallery
Free contemporary gallery showing regional and national artists. A strong stop for visitors exploring Ipswich’s modern cultural scene.
- Must visit
Christchurch Park
Large historic park with lawns, wooded walks, tennis courts, and mansion views. It is Ipswich’s classic green escape near the centre.
- Must visit
Ipswich Waterfront
Regenerated marina district with quayside walks, public art, and lively views of boats and historic warehouses day or night.
- Recommended
Cornhill
Main civic square framed by Town Hall and historic buildings. A natural starting point for markets, events, and town-centre sightseeing.
- Gluten-free
Suffolk Ham
A traditional Suffolk cured ham, usually served thinly sliced. It is prized for its dry cure and long local heritage in East Anglian food culture.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Baron Bigod Or Suffolk Blue Cheese
A regional blue cheese made in Suffolk from cow's milk. Its creamy texture and rich, tangy taste make it a classic local cheese board choice.
- Gluten-free
Suffolk Coastal Fish
Fresh fish landed from the Suffolk coast, often cod, plaice, or sole. It reflects Ipswich's long trading links with nearby North Sea fishing ports.
The Unruly Pig
Well-known Ipswich pub and dining room serving classic British dishes, local ales, and seasonal produce in a smart yet relaxed setting.
Milsoms Kesgrave Hall
Refined restaurant in nearby Great Bealings with modern British tasting menus, strong Suffolk sourcing, and an elegant country-house setting.
Applaud Coffee
Popular independent venue in the town centre serving brunch, coffee, and modern British plates in a stylish casual space.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK: hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local buses and casual meals remain fairly affordable for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 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
- £3-4.50 for cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Taxis are often rounded up. Cafes usually do not require tips.
First Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £4.50
To the city center
Ipswich Railway Station -> Cornhill, Ipswich
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless card and mobile payments are accepted on First Bus services in Ipswich. Tap your card or device when you board.
- Most local bus fares are capped, but check the operator app before travel for the latest prices and live service updates.
FAQs: Trains from Leicester to Ipswich
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Leicester to Ipswich 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 Ipswich, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Leicester to Ipswich can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $51, while the average price is around $158.
The train from Leicester to Ipswich takes 2h 19m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Leicester to Ipswich leaves at 4:47 AM.
The distance by train from Leicester to Ipswich is 104 miles (168 km).
The last train from Leicester to Ipswich leaves at 9:23 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Leicester to Ipswich.
There is no direct train service currently available from Leicester to Ipswich.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Leicester to Ipswich.
The train station in Leicester that goes to Ipswich is Leicester station (LEI), which connects to Ipswich station (IPS).
The cheapest way to get from Leicester to Ipswich is by train, with a cost of around $51.
The train journey from Leicester to Ipswich passes through the picturesque English countryside, offering views of rolling hills, farmland, and charming villages, making it a pleasant and mildly scenic route.
A day trip from Leicester to Ipswich is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 19m. Trains run 6 times per day over a distance of 104 miles (168 km).
In Ipswich, visitors can enjoy performances at the New Wolsey Theatre, explore walking trails at Orwell Country Park, and discover transport heritage at the Ipswich Transport Museum. Dance enthusiasts can visit DanceEast for performances and workshops, while families might enjoy Jimmy's Farm & Wildlife Park. Notable sights include the vibrant Ipswich Waterfront, historic Christchurch Mansion, Ipswich Museum, and the scenic Holywells Park. For local cuisine and views, the Suffolk Food Hall is a must-visit.
To thoroughly explore Ipswich's cultural attractions, historic sites, and nearby Suffolk countryside, a stay of 2 to 3 days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Leicester to Ipswich.
Since neither Leicester nor Ipswich 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 Ipswich include London, Chelmsford, Stowmarket, Norwich, Colchester.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Leicester to Ipswich 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 Ipswich, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the town center and markets. Scams involving overcharging by unofficial taxi drivers can occur, so it’s advisable to use licensed cabs or pre-booked transportation. Travelers should also remain aware of their surroundings at night, as isolated areas may have increased petty crime.
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 Leicester to Ipswich
Most Leicester to Ipswich trains use the Leicester to Ipswich station pair, with some services arriving at Derby Road. Use this guide to compare Leicester and Ipswich train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Leicester
Arrival train stations in Ipswich
Which Leicester station do trains to Ipswich leave from?
Trains from Leicester to Ipswich leave from Leicester. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Leicester city centre at Leicester station, London Road, Leicester, Leicestershire, LE2 0QB.
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.
Which Ipswich station do trains from Leicester arrive at?
Trains from Leicester to Ipswich most often arrive at Ipswich. Some services arrive at Derby Road, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Ipswich arrival station.
IpswichIpswich station, Burrell Road, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP2 8AL+44 3450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Ipswich from Ipswich city centre
Ipswich is 1 km from Ipswich city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus13, 12, 23, 3, 119, 3E · 7m · $2 · every ~27 min
12, 3, 13, 15, 119, 3E, 23 · 9m · $2 · every ~35 min
111 · 21m
Ipswich train station facilities and services
Ipswich has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Ipswich.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Ipswich. ATMs are available at Ipswich.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Ipswich.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Ipswich: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Ipswich: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Ipswich: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible taxis: Details of nearest taxis are shown on station information poster, 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.
Derby RoadDerby Road station, Derby Road, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP3 8DN
City-centre transport
Getting to Derby Road from Ipswich city centre
Derby Road is 2 km from Ipswich city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainIpswich - Felixstowe · 11m · $5 · every ~2 min
Bus5, 5E · 12m · every ~13 min
Derby Road train station facilities and services
Derby Road has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Derby Road.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Derby Road: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Derby Road: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Derby Road: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible taxis: Details of nearest taxis are shown on station information poster, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Most popular train connections from Leicester
More options for your journey from Leicester to Ipswich
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Ipswich and Leicester
Most popular train connections to Ipswich
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