- 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 Luton to Leicester
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 05
Cheapest price on Sep 05
$17
Average ticket price on Sep 05
$46
Fastest journey on Sep 05
1 h 5 m
Average journey duration on Sep 05
1 h 5 m
Trains on Sep 05
8
Distance
97 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Luton to Leicester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Luton to Leicester will cost around $46 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $17.
Fast trains
On Sat, Sep 05, we found 8 trains from Luton to Leicester, including 8 direct services.
On Sat, Sep 05 the direct trains cover the 97 km distance in an average of 1 h 5 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 5 m .
On Sat, Sep 05 the slowest trains will take 1 h 6 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.
8:40 PM1h05Luton9:45 PMLeicester$171One-way0 transfers- 9:10 AM1h06Luton10:16 AMLeicester$231One-way0 transfers
- 10:10 AM1h06Luton11:16 AMLeicester$311One-way0 transfers
- 8:10 AM1h06Luton9:16 AMLeicester$361One-way0 transfers
- 10:40 AM1h05Luton11:45 AMLeicester$361One-way0 transfers
- 8:40 PM1h05Luton9:45 PMLeicester$171One-way0 transfers
- 9:40 AM1h05Luton10:45 AMLeicester$801One-way0 transfers
- 10:40 AM1h05Luton11:45 AMLeicester$361One-way0 transfers
- 8:40 AM1h05Luton9:45 AMLeicester$721One-way0 transfers
- 10:10 AM1h06Luton11:16 AMLeicester$311One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Luton to Leicester
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Luton to Leicester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $14 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 1h 59m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.1kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $14, while a train costs an average of $37.
Distance: 60 miles (97 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$37 Average price | $14 Average price Cheapest | $27 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 59m Average total duration Fastest 1h 29m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 6m Average total duration 1h 36m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 27m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.2kg 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 Luton to Leicester is a bus with an average price of $14.
This is compared to other travel options from Luton to Leicester:
A bus is $23 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Luton to Leicester costing on average $37.
The fastest way to travel from Luton to Leicester is by train with an average journey time of 1h 29m.
Other travel options to Leicester take longer:
Bus takes on average 1h 36m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Luton and Leicester including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Luton to Leicester among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around $37 compared to roughly $27 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-9.36. The journey takes 1h 29m versus 1h 27m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Luton to Leicester train times
The table below shows live departures for Luton to Leicester trains for tomorrow, Saturday, September 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:10 AM Luton | 1h06 | 9:16 AM Leicester | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:40 AM Luton | 1h05 | 9:45 AM Leicester | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:10 AM Luton | 1h06 | 10:16 AM Leicester | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:40 AM Luton | 1h05 | 10:45 AM Leicester | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:10 AM Luton | 1h06 | 11:16 AM Leicester | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:40 AM Luton | 1h05 | 11:45 AM Leicester | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 4:10 PM Luton | 1h07 | 5:17 PM Leicester | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Luton 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.
Sat
Sep 05
Sep 05
Sun
Sep 06
Sep 06
Mon
Sep 07
Sep 07
Tue
Sep 08
Sep 08
Wed
Sep 09
Sep 09
Thu
Sep 10
Sep 10
Fri
Sep 11
Sep 11
Why should you book Luton to Leicester trains with Omio?
East Midlands Railway as well as Thameslink or east_midlands_trains offer trains services from Luton to Leicester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Luton 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 Thameslink or east_midlands_trains to find the best option for your trip from Luton 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 Luton to Leicester.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Rome2rio?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Thameslink or east_midlands_trains to find the best option for your trip from Luton to Leicester.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Luton to Leicester.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Luton to Leicester
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Luton to Leicester run on average 8 times per day, taking around 1h 29m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $19 but you can travel from only $9 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 04:20, the last at 23:46. The fastest train covers the 60 miles (97 km) distance in 55m.
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 $9
Distance 60 miles (97 km) |
Average train duration 1h 29m |
Cheapest ticket price $19 |
Trains per day 8 |
Fastest train 55m |
First train 4:20 AM |
Last train 11:46 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 21 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 $9
Train companies: East Midlands Railway, Thameslink, east_midlands_trains from Luton to Leicester trainsEast Midlands Railway, Thameslink, east_midlands_trains trains will get you between Luton and Leicester from $9. 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
55m
Cheapest East Midlands Railway Price
$19
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
Thameslink
About
Thameslink is a train service that operates in the United Kingdom. It is operated by Govia Thameslink Railway and serves the counties of Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire, London, and Surrey. The trains run from early morning until late at night, with some services running 24 hours a day. There are a variety of train types available, including Class 700 Desiro City, Class 377 Electrostar, Class 387/1 Electrostar, and Class 319/0. Ticket types include Anytime, Off-Peak, Super Off-Peak, and Advance. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, and air conditioning. The most popular routes for Thameslink are London to Brighton, London to Bedford, and London to Luton.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Thameslink Duration
1h 13m
Cheapest Thameslink Price
$57
Thameslink frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund available if service is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on some routes offering drinks and snacks
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets free of charge. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone
east_midlands_trains
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average east_midlands_trains Duration
55m
Cheapest east_midlands_trains Price
$43
east_midlands_trains frequency
16 a day
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 Luton to Leicester
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Luton 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 Luton to Leicester can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $19, while the average price is around $37.
The train from Luton to Leicester takes 55m and runs 8 per day.
The first train from Luton to Leicester leaves at 4:20 AM.
The distance by train from Luton to Leicester is 60 miles (97 km).
The last train from Luton to Leicester leaves at 11:46 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Luton to Leicester.
There is no direct train service currently available from Luton to Leicester.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Luton to Leicester.
The train station in Luton that goes to Leicester is Luton station (LUT), which connects to Leicester station (LEI).
The cheapest way to get from Luton to Leicester is by bus, with a cost of around $9.
The train journey from Luton to Leicester primarily passes through urban and suburban areas, with some stretches offering views of the English countryside, but it is not typically considered a notably scenic route.
Yes, a day trip from Luton to Leicester is feasible with a travel duration of 55m and a distance of 60 miles (97 km). Trains run 7 times 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 Luton to Leicester.
Since neither Luton 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 train as it is the most popular way to get from Luton 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 Luton to Leicester
Most Luton to Leicester trains use the Luton to Leicester station pair. Use this guide to compare Luton and Leicester train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Luton
Arrival train stations in Leicester
Which Luton station do trains to Leicester leave from?
Trains from Luton to Leicester leave from Luton. The station is from Luton city centre at Luton station, Station Road, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU1 2LT.
LutonLuton station, Station Road, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU1 2LT
City-centre transport
Getting to Luton from Luton city centre
Bus17 · 7m · $2 · every ~2 min
Luton train station facilities and services
Luton has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Luton.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Luton. ATMs are available at Luton.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Luton.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Luton: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Luton: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Luton: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category B3 station: Step free access via lift to platform 5 only (some trains to Bedford/ the East Midlands) only. Steps to all other platforms. Assistance Meeting Point is the Ticket Office. This station doesn't have tactile surfaces along all platform edges. Please pay attention to where the platform surface changes from smooth to paved or contact us for assistance, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All Thameslink ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. Ticket machines are of an accessible design, however their location and the station itself may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Wheelchairs may only be available when the station is staffed, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Luton Airport ParkwayLuton Airport Parkway station, Parkway Road, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU1 3JW
City-centre transport
Getting to Luton Airport Parkway from Luton city centre
Luton Airport Parkway is 1 km from Luton city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainCorby - London St Pancras International, Sheffield - London St Pancras International, Nottingham - London St Pancras International, Kettering - London St Pancras International, Wellingborough - London St Pancras International, East Midlands Parkway - London St Pancras International · 2m · $1 · every ~4 min
BusX4, X1, X2, Z, A, X3 · 5m · $5 · every ~41 min
612, X10 · 5m · $1 · every ~2 min
44, 45, 366 · 6m · $2 · every ~2 min
101, 100 · 10m · $5 · every ~7 min
Luton Airport Parkway train station facilities and services
Luton Airport Parkway has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Luton Airport Parkway.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Luton Airport Parkway. ATMs are available at Luton Airport Parkway.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Luton Airport Parkway.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Luton Airport Parkway: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Luton Airport Parkway: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Luton Airport Parkway: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category A station: This station has step-free level access to all platforms via lifts. Assistance Meeting Point is the Ticket Office, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All Thameslink ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. Ticket machines are of an accessible design, however their location and the station itself may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Wheelchairs may only be available when the station is staffed, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Luton DART ParkwayLuton LU2 0HB, UK
Luton DART Parkway train station facilities and services
Luton DART Parkway has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Luton DART Parkway: The place has an entrance that is wheelchair-accessible.
Which Leicester station do trains from Luton arrive at?
Trains from Luton to Leicester most often arrive at Leicester. Some services arrive at South Wigston, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Leicester arrival station.
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 Luton
More options for your journey from Luton to Leicester
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Leicester and Luton
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