- Must visit
Southend Central Museum
Southend's main local history museum, covering archaeology, natural history, and social heritage in a central Victorian building.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Leicester to Southend-on-Sea
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 18
Cheapest price on Sep 18
€96
Average ticket price on Sep 18
€104
Fastest journey on Sep 18
2 h 48 m
Average journey duration on Sep 18
2 h 53 m
Trains on Sep 18
2
Distance
176 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Leicester to Southend-on-Sea is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Leicester to Southend-on-Sea will cost around €104 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €96.
Fast trains
On Fri, Sep 18, we found 2 trains from Leicester to Southend-on-Sea, including 2 direct services.
On Fri, Sep 18 the direct trains cover the 176 km distance in an average of 2 h 53 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 48 m .
On Fri, Sep 18 the slowest trains will take 2 h 58 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.
9:30 AM2h58Leicester12:28 PMSouthend-on-Sea€961One-way0 transfers- 4:04 PM2h48Leicester6:52 PMSouthend-on-Sea€1131One-way0 transfers
- 4:04 PM2h48Leicester6:52 PMSouthend-on-Sea€1131One-way0 transfers
- 9:30 AM2h58Leicester12:28 PMSouthend-on-Sea€961One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Leicester to Southend-on-Sea
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Leicester to Southend-on-Sea among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of €119 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 57m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of €119, while a train costs an average of €119.
Distance: 109 miles (176 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|
€119 Average price Cheapest | €41 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 57m Average total duration Fastest 2h 27m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 49m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Leicester to Southend-on-Sea is a train with an average price of €119.
The fastest way to travel from Leicester to Southend-on-Sea is by train with an average journey time of 2h 27m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Leicester and Southend-on-Sea including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Leicester to Southend-on-Sea 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 22m sooner (2h 27m by train vs 2h 49m by car). Tickets start at around €119 compared to roughly €41 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 Southend-on-Sea train times
The table below shows live departures for Leicester to Southend-on-Sea trains for today, Thursday, September 17. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3:12 PM Leicester | 3h05 | 6:17 PM Southend-on-Sea | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 4:12 PM Leicester | 3h05 | 7:17 PM Southend-on-Sea | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Friday, September 18 | |||||
| 9:30 AM Leicester | 2h58 | 12:28 PM Southend-on-Sea | 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 Southend-on-Sea 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.
Fri
Sep 18
Sep 18
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Sep 19
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Sep 20
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Sep 21
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Why should you book Leicester to Southend-on-Sea trains with Omio?
East Midlands Railway as well as West Midlands Trains or east_midlands_trains offer trains services from Leicester to Southend-on-Sea.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Leicester to Southend-on-Sea.
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 West Midlands Trains or east_midlands_trains to find the best option for your trip from Leicester to Southend-on-Sea.
- 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 Leicester to Southend-on-Sea.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Rome2rio?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of West Midlands Trains or east_midlands_trains to find the best option for your trip from Leicester to Southend-on-Sea.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Leicester to Southend-on-Sea.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Leicester to Southend-on-Sea
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Leicester to Southend-on-Sea run on average 5 times per day, taking around 2h 27m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €84 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 04:00, the last at 22:15. The fastest train covers the 109 miles (176 km) distance in 2h 16m.
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 109 miles (176 km) |
Average train duration 2h 27m |
Cheapest ticket price €84 |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 2h 16m |
First train 4:00 AM |
Last train 10:15 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
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
Train companies: East Midlands Railway from Leicester to Southend-on-Sea trainsEast Midlands Railway trains will get you between Leicester and Southend-on-Sea from €84. 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 East Midlands Railway Duration
2h 16m
Cheapest East Midlands Railway Price
€84
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
Complete guide to Southend-on-Sea
Things to do in Southend-on-Sea
Discover the best of Southend-on-Sea — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Southend-on-Sea trip today.
- Must visit
Prittlewell Priory Museum
Historic priory museum with period rooms, monastic remains, and gardens, offering one of the area's richest heritage experiences.
- Recommended
Southend Pier Museum
Specialist museum exploring Southend's famous pier, seaside holidays, and coastal life through engaging local displays.
- Must visit
Southend Seafront
Long sandy beach and promenade area popular for walks, sea views, amusements, and classic Southend seaside atmosphere.
- Must visit
Old Leigh
Historic fishing quarter with cobbled lanes, cockle sheds, and estuary views, full of local character and maritime heritage.
- Recommended
Chalkwell Park
Large clifftop park with gardens, sports space, and open views over the Thames estuary, ideal for relaxed coastal walks.
- Gluten-free
Cockles
Fresh cockles harvested from the Thames estuary, long linked with Southend's seafront stalls and seafood trade. Usually served with vinegar and pepper.
- Gluten-free
Whelks
Whelks are sea snails traditionally sold at Essex fish stalls. In Southend they are a classic seaside snack, eaten cold with salt, vinegar, and pepper.
- Gluten-free
Jellied Eels
Jellied eels are a historic Thames estuary dish. Chopped eels are cooked in spiced stock that sets into jelly, a traditional East End and Essex specialty.
Roslin Beach Hotel Restaurant
Fine dining restaurant with modern British cooking and polished service. Well regarded for tasting menus and a refined special-occasion atmosphere.
West's Seafood Restaurant
Classic seafront fish and chip restaurant known for fresh seafood, generous portions, and a traditional Southend seaside atmosphere.
The Fishermen's Wharf
Long-established seafood restaurant focusing on local fish and shellfish. Smart but relaxed setting near the seafront with strong local reputation.
British pound sterling (£)
Moderate for a UK seaside city. Hotels can rise in summer, but casual dining and local transit are usually cheaper than London. Attractions and seafront snacks can add up.
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 a coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up for taxis. Cafes usually do not expect tips, but small change is appreciated.
First Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £4.70
To the city center
Chalkwell -> Southend Central, Southend-on-Sea
- Distance
- 2.5 km
- Travel time
- 6 min
- Contactless card and mobile payment are accepted on First Bus services in Southend-on-Sea.
- For rail trips from Chalkwell, use c2c or Greater Anglia official channels to check times and buy tickets before travel.
FAQs: Trains from Leicester to Southend-on-Sea
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Leicester to Southend-on-Sea 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 Southend-on-Sea, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Leicester to Southend-on-Sea can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €84, while the average price is around €119.
The train from Leicester to Southend-on-Sea takes 2h 16m and runs 5 per day.
The distance by train from Leicester to Southend-on-Sea is 109 miles (176 km).
The first train from Leicester to Southend-on-Sea leaves at 4:00 AM.
The last train from Leicester to Southend-on-Sea leaves at 10:15 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Leicester to Southend-on-Sea.
There is no direct train service currently available from Leicester to Southend-on-Sea.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Leicester to Southend-on-Sea.
The train station in Leicester that goes to Southend-on-Sea is Leicester station (LEI), which connects to Southend Central (SOC).
The cheapest way to get from Leicester to Southend-on-Sea is by train, with a cost of around €84.
The train journey from Leicester to Southend-on-Sea offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, with views of the English countryside, small towns, and the occasional glimpse of historical architecture, though it may not be considered particularly scenic compared to more renowned scenic routes.
A day trip from Leicester to Southend-on-Sea is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 16m. Trains run 6 times per day.
Two to three days in Southend-on-Sea can allow you to explore its key attractions, including Adventure Island, Southend Pier, and the Sea Life Adventure Aquarium.
Yes, you can take the train from Leicester to Southend-on-Sea.
Since neither Leicester nor Southend-on-Sea 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 Southend-on-Sea include London, Barking, Rochford, Stratford, Basildon.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Leicester to Southend-on-Sea 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 Southend-on-Sea, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the seafront and amusement parks. Common scams include overcharging in taxis that are not licensed and distraction techniques used by street vendors or performers. Staying alert in busy tourist spots and using official transportation services can help ensure safety.
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 Southend-on-Sea
Most Leicester to Southend-on-Sea trains use the Leicester to Southend Central station pair, with some services arriving at Chalkwell. Use this guide to compare Leicester and Southend-on-Sea 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 Southend-on-Sea
Which Leicester station do trains to Southend-on-Sea leave from?
Trains from Leicester to Southend-on-Sea 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 Southend-on-Sea station do trains from Leicester arrive at?
Trains from Leicester to Southend-on-Sea most often arrive at Southend Central. Some services arrive at Chalkwell, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Southend-on-Sea arrival station.
Southend CentralSouthend Central station, Clifftown Road, Southend-on-Sea, Essex, SS1 1AB+44 8450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Southend Central from Southend-on-Sea city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesBus stops on Clifftown Road near The Last Public House
Southend Central train station facilities and services
Southend Central has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Southend Central.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Southend Central. ATMs are available at Southend Central.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Southend Central. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 03457 44 44 22, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Southend Central: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Southend Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Southend Central: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
ChalkwellChalkwell station, The Ridgeway, Chalkwell, Essex, SS0 8PX
City-centre transport
Getting to Chalkwell from Southend-on-Sea city centre
Chalkwell is 3 km from Southend-on-Sea city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainShoeburyness - London Fenchurch Street, Shoeburyness - London Liverpool Street, Thorpe Bay - London Fenchurch Street, Southend Central - London Fenchurch Street, Shoeburyness - Barking, Southend Central - Upminster, Shoeburyness - Upminster, Southend Central - Barking · 4m · €1 · every ~13 min
Bus99Ot · 11m · every ~4 min
1X · 19m · €4 · every ~4 min
Chalkwell train station facilities and services
Chalkwell has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Chalkwell.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Chalkwell.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Chalkwell. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 03457 44 44 22, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Chalkwell: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Chalkwell: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Chalkwell: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Step free access is not available to either platform at this station, Accessible public telephones: No, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: No, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Southend VictoriaSouthend Victoria station, Victoria Avenue, Southend-on-Sea, Essex, SS2 6AZ
City-centre transport
Getting to Southend Victoria from Southend-on-Sea city centre
Bus25, 7, 20, 825, 827, 21S, 28, 21, 3, 26, 20S · 3m · €3 · every ~69 min
Southend Victoria train station facilities and services
Southend Victoria has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Southend Victoria.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Southend Victoria. ATMs are available at Southend Victoria.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Southend Victoria. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0800 028 28 78, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Southend Victoria: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Southend Victoria: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Southend Victoria: 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: Taxi rank at front of 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: No.
Most popular train connections from Leicester
More options for your journey from Leicester to Southend-on-Sea
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Southend-on-Sea and Leicester
Most popular train connections to Southend-on-Sea
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