Portsmouth to Leicester train with South Western Railway

Fri, Sep 18
+ Add return
South Western Railway
Southern
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
South Western Railway
Southern
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest trains from Portsmouth to Leicester

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 18

Cheapest price on Sep 18

$58

Average ticket price on Sep 18

$96

Fastest journey on Sep 18

3 h 45 m

Average journey duration on Sep 18

3 h 51 m

Trains on Sep 18

5

Distance

205 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Portsmouth to Leicester will cost around $96 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $58.

Fast trains

On Fri, Sep 18, we found 5 trains from Portsmouth to Leicester, including 5 direct services.

On Fri, Sep 18 the direct trains cover the 205 km distance in an average of 3 h 51 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 45 m .

On Fri, Sep 18 the slowest trains will take 3 h 59 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.

  • South Western Railway
    9:19 AM3h47
    Portsmouth
    1:06 PMLeicester
    $581One-way
    0 transfers
  • South Western Railway
    4:50 AM3h58
    Portsmouth
    8:48 AMLeicester
    $921One-way
    0 transfers
  • South Western Railway
    9:51 AM3h45
    Portsmouth
    1:36 PMLeicester
    $941One-way
    0 transfers
  • South Western Railway
    10:37 AM3h59
    Portsmouth
    2:36 PMLeicester
    $1061One-way
    0 transfers
  • South Western Railway
    10:19 AM3h47
    Portsmouth
    2:06 PMLeicester
    $1291One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Portsmouth to Leicester

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Portsmouth to Leicester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $38 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 45m. 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 $38, while a train costs an average of $137.

Distance: 127 miles (205 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Bus
Driving

$137

Average price

$38

Average price

Cheapest

$57

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 45m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 15m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 5m

Average total duration

5h 35m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 9m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.5kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

South Western Railway

Most popular train company

National Express

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 Portsmouth to Leicester is a bus with an average price of $38.

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

A bus is $99 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Portsmouth to Leicester costing on average $137.

The fastest way to travel from Portsmouth to Leicester is by train with an average journey time of 3h 15m.

Other travel options to Leicester take longer:

Bus takes on average 5h 35m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Portsmouth and Leicester including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Portsmouth 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 $137 compared to roughly $57 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-80.01. The journey takes 3h 15m versus 3h 9m 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

Portsmouth to Leicester train times

The table below shows live departures for Portsmouth to Leicester trains for tomorrow, Friday, September 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
South Western Railway4:50 AM Portsmouth
3h58
8:48 AM Leicester0 transfersDirect
South Western Railway9:19 AM Portsmouth
3h47
1:06 PM Leicester0 transfersDirect
South Western Railway9:51 AM Portsmouth
3h45
1:36 PM Leicester0 transfersDirect
South Western Railway10:19 AM Portsmouth
3h47
2:06 PM Leicester0 transfersDirect
South Western Railway10:37 AM Portsmouth
3h59
2:36 PM Leicester0 transfersDirect

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Portsmouth 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.

Fri
Sep 18
Sat
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24

Why should you book Portsmouth to Leicester trains with Omio?

South Western Railway as well as Southern offer trains services from Portsmouth to Leicester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Portsmouth to Leicester.

Why book with Omio vs South Western Railway?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for South Western Railway, but also compare tickets for the likes of Southern to find the best option for your trip from Portsmouth 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 South Western Railway with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Portsmouth to Leicester.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Southern to find the best option for your trip from Portsmouth to Leicester.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Portsmouth to Leicester.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Portsmouth to Leicester

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Portsmouth to Leicester run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 15m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $41 but you can travel from only $15 by bus.

The earliest train runs at 04:30, the last at 21:17. The fastest train covers the 127 miles (205 km) distance in 2h 53m.

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 $15
Distance
127 miles (205 km)
Average train duration
3h 15m
Cheapest ticket price
$41
Trains per day
6
Fastest train
2h 53m
First train
4:30 AM
Last train
9:17 PM
Cheapest Month
Mar
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Apr - Jun
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Thu
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $15

Train companies: South Western Railway, CrossCountry, Southern, East Midlands Railway from Portsmouth to Leicester trainsSouth Western Railway, CrossCountry, Southern, East Midlands Railway trains will get you between Portsmouth and Leicester from $15. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

South Western Railway

About
South Western Railway is a train operating company in the United Kingdom, providing services in the south and south-west of England. It operates a variety of train types, including high-speed trains, local stopping services, and suburban commuter trains. It also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Off-Peak, and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for South Western Railway include London Waterloo to Portsmouth Harbour, London Waterloo to Weymouth, and London Waterloo to Bournemouth.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average South Western Railway Duration
2h 53m
Cheapest South Western Railway Price
$57
South Western Railway frequency
6 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund depends on ticket type and timing of cancellation
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar service with hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee, free for some ticket types
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free, dogs must be on lead
Quiet zone

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
3h 33m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
$116
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

Southern

About
Southern Rail is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from high-speed intercity trains to local commuter services. Its trains include the InterCity 125, InterCity 225, and Class 444 and 450. It also offers a variety of ticket types, such as Advance, Off-Peak, and Super Off-Peak. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for Southern Rail are London to Brighton, London to Southampton, and London to Portsmouth.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Southern Duration
3h 21m
Cheapest Southern Price
$41
Southern frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 piece of hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage areas at the end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund provided
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with snacks and drinks
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require a ticket
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
3h 50m
Cheapest East Midlands Railway Price
$158
East Midlands Railway frequency
1 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 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

Leicester Museum & Art Gallery

Leicester's flagship museum and gallery, known for dinosaurs, German Expressionism and broad collections for first-time visitors.

  • 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.

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.

FAQs: Trains from Portsmouth to Leicester

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Portsmouth to Leicester can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $41, while the average price is around $137.
The train from Portsmouth to Leicester takes 2h 53m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Portsmouth to Leicester is 127 miles (205 km).
The first train from Portsmouth to Leicester leaves at 4:30 AM.
The last train from Portsmouth to Leicester leaves at 9:17 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Portsmouth to Leicester.
There is no direct train service currently available from Portsmouth to Leicester.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Portsmouth to Leicester.
The train station in Portsmouth that goes to Leicester is Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS), which connects to Leicester station (LEI).
The cheapest way to get from Portsmouth to Leicester is by bus, with a cost of around $15.
The train journey from Portsmouth to Leicester offers a mix of urban and rural views, passing through the South Downs National Park and the rolling countryside of the Midlands, providing some scenic elements.
A day trip from Portsmouth to Leicester is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 53m. There are 5 trains per day covering a distance of 127 miles (205 km).
Typically, 2 to 3 days are sufficient to explore Leicester's main attractions, including the King Richard III Visitor Centre, Leicester Cathedral, and the National Space Centre.
Yes, you can take the train from Portsmouth to Leicester.
Since neither Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth to Leicester

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

Departure train stations in Portsmouth
Arrival train stations in Leicester

Which Portsmouth station do trains to Leicester leave from?

Trains from Portsmouth to Leicester leave from Portsmouth & Southsea. The station is from Portsmouth city centre at Portsmouth & Southsea station, Commercial Road, Portsmouth, Hampshire, PO1 1EQ.
Portsmouth & SouthseaPortsmouth & Southsea station, Commercial Road, Portsmouth, Hampshire, PO1 1EQWifiParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Portsmouth & Southsea from Portsmouth city centre

Location for Rail Replacement ServicesStation Street bus stop at side of Railway Station near Matalan car park.

Portsmouth & Southsea train station facilities and services

Portsmouth & Southsea has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Portsmouth & Southsea.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Portsmouth & Southsea. ATMs are available at Portsmouth & Southsea.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Portsmouth & Southsea.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Portsmouth & Southsea: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Portsmouth & Southsea: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Portsmouth & Southsea: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step-free category A Station - This station has step-free access to all platforms. Please be aware that some platforms at this station have no or only partial tactile paving on the platform edge, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All South Western Railway ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. All machines are accessible, however the station may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.

Portsmouth HarbourPortsmouth Harbour station, The Hard Interchange, Portsmouth, Hampshire, PO1 3PAWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Portsmouth Harbour from Portsmouth city centre

Portsmouth Harbour is 1 km from Portsmouth city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainLondon Victoria - Portsmouth Harbour, Brighton - Portsmouth Harbour, Littlehampton - Portsmouth Harbour, Three Bridges - Portsmouth Harbour, Barnham - Portsmouth Harbour, Gatwick Airport - Portsmouth Harbour, Havant - Portsmouth Harbour, Bognor Regis - Portsmouth Harbour · 3m · $1 · every ~4 min
Bus1, 2, 8, 3, 7, X4, H1, X5, Pr1 · 6m · $2 · every ~214 min

Portsmouth Harbour train station facilities and services

Portsmouth Harbour has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Car Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Portsmouth Harbour.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Portsmouth Harbour. ATMs are available at Portsmouth Harbour.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Portsmouth Harbour.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Portsmouth Harbour: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Portsmouth Harbour: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Portsmouth Harbour: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step-free category B Station - Steps or 20m ramp (approx. 1:11 gradient) to main entrance, or steps to side entrance. 32m ramp (gradient up to 1:8) from Wightlink IoW ferry terminal. Level access to all platforms. Stepped footbridge between platforms is also available. Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All South Western Railway ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. All machines are accessible, however the station may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.

The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy

We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone