- 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 Southampton to Leicester
Showing times and prices for Aug 03
Cheapest price
€68
Average price
€82
Fastest journey
3 h 20 m
Average duration
3 h 52 m
Trains per day
4
Distance
194 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Southampton to Leicester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Southampton to Leicester will cost around €82 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €68.
Fast trains
Of the 4 trains that leave Southampton for Leicester on Mon, Aug 03, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, Aug 03 the direct trains cover the 194 km distance in an average of 3 h 52 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 20 m .
On Mon, Aug 03 the slowest trains will take 4 h 28 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.
9:15 AM3h20Southampton12:35 PMLeicester€681One-way0 transfers
6:15 PM4h03Southampton10:18 PMLeicester€711One-way0 transfers
7:07 AM4h28Southampton11:35 AMLeicester€771One-way0 transfers- 9:00 AM3h35Southampton12:35 PMLeicester€1101One-way0 transfers
- 9:15 AM3h20Southampton12:35 PMLeicester€681One-way0 transfers
- 9:00 AM3h35Southampton12:35 PMLeicester€1101One-way0 transfers
- 6:15 PM4h03Southampton10:18 PMLeicester€711One-way0 transfers
- 7:07 AM4h28Southampton11:35 AMLeicester€771One-way0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from Southampton to Leicester
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Southampton to Leicester run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 53m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €42 but you can travel from only €15 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 04:41, the last at 22:52. The fastest train covers the 120 miles (194 km) distance in 3h 20m.
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 120 miles (194 km) |
Average train duration 2h 53m |
Cheapest ticket price €42 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 3h 20m |
First train 4:41 AM |
Last train 10:52 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 28 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from €15
Live departures
Southampton to Leicester train times
The table below shows live departures for Southampton to Leicester trains for tomorrow, Monday, August 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:07 AM Southampton | 4h28 | 11:35 AM Leicester | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:00 AM Southampton | 3h35 | 12:35 PM Leicester | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:15 AM Southampton | 3h20 | 12:35 PM Leicester | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Southampton to Leicester trains with Omio?
South Western Railway as well as CrossCountry, East Midlands Railway, Cross Country and more offer trains services from Southampton to Leicester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Southampton 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 CrossCountry, East Midlands Railway or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Southampton 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 train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Southampton 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 CrossCountry, East Midlands Railway or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Southampton to Leicester.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Southampton to Leicester.
Train companies: South Western Railway, CrossCountry, East Midlands Railway, Cross Country from Southampton to Leicester trainsSouth Western Railway, CrossCountry, East Midlands Railway, Cross Country trains will get you between Southampton 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 Duration
3h 35m
Cheapest Price
€50
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 Duration
3h 35m
Cheapest Price
€42
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
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 Duration
3h 20m
Cheapest Price
€56
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
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 16m
Cheapest Price
€211
Cross Country frequency
26 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 Southampton to Leicester
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Southampton 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 Southampton to Leicester can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €42, while the average price is around €75.
The train from Southampton to Leicester takes 3h 20m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from Southampton to Leicester leaves at 4:41 AM.
The distance by train from Southampton to Leicester is 120 miles (194 km).
The last train from Southampton to Leicester leaves at 10:52 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Southampton to Leicester.
There is no direct train service currently available from Southampton to Leicester.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Southampton to Leicester.
The train station in Southampton that goes to Leicester is Southampton Central (SOU), which connects to Leicester station (LEI).
The train journey from Southampton to Leicester offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, with views of the English countryside, including fields and small villages, particularly as you travel through the Midlands.
Yes, you can take the train from Southampton to Leicester.
Popular day trips by train from Leicester include Nottingham, Birmingham, Derby, Loughborough, Beeston.
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 Southampton to Leicester
Most Southampton to Leicester trains use the Southampton Central to Leicester station pair. Use this guide to compare Southampton and Leicester train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Southampton
Arrival train stations in Leicester
Which Southampton station do trains to Leicester leave from?
Trains from Southampton to Leicester leave from Southampton Central. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Southampton city centre at Southampton Central station, Blechynden Terrace, Southampton, Hampshire, SO15 1AL.
Southampton CentralSouthampton Central station, Blechynden Terrace, Southampton, Hampshire, SO15 1AL+44 345 600 0650
City-centre transport
Getting to Southampton Central from Southampton city centre
BusX4, X5 · 5m · €2 · every ~20 min
Southampton Central train station facilities and services
Southampton Central has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Southampton Central.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Southampton Central. ATMs are available at Southampton Central.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Southampton Central.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Southampton Central: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Southampton Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Southampton Central: 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 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: Yes.
Southampton Airport ParkwaySouthampton Airport Parkway station, Wide Lane, Southampton, Hampshire, SO18 2HW+44 345 600 0650
City-centre transport
Getting to Southampton Airport Parkway from Southampton city centre
Southampton Airport Parkway is 5 km from Southampton city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainSalisbury - Romsey, Weymouth - London Waterloo, Bournemouth - Winchester, Poole - London Waterloo, Southampton Central - London Waterloo, Weymouth - Woking, Bournemouth - Basingstoke, Poole - Winchester, Southampton Central - Basingstoke, Bournemouth - London Waterloo, Poole - Eastleigh, Weymouth - Eastleigh, Romsey - Romsey, Southampton Central - Woking, Salisbury - Salisbury, Salisbury - Eastleigh, Southampton Central - Eastleigh, Southampton Central - Romsey · 10m · €3 · every ~8 min
BusU1a, U1e · 34m · €2 · every ~21 min
U1a, U1e · 40m · €2 · every ~37 min
Southampton Airport Parkway train station facilities and services
Southampton Airport Parkway has practical services for this route, including Wifi, 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 Southampton Airport Parkway.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Southampton Airport Parkway. ATMs are available at Southampton Airport Parkway.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Southampton Airport Parkway.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Southampton Airport Parkway: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Southampton Airport Parkway: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Southampton Airport Parkway: 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.
St DenysSt Denys station, Osborne Road South, Portswood, Hampshire, SO17 2EZ
City-centre transport
Getting to St Denys from Southampton city centre
St Denys is 2 km from Southampton city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainSouthampton Central - London Waterloo, Southampton Central - Portsmouth & Southsea, Salisbury - Romsey, Romsey - Romsey, Salisbury - Salisbury, Bournemouth - Basingstoke, Southampton Central - Basingstoke, Bournemouth - Winchester, Southampton Central - Portsmouth Harbour, Southampton Central - Woking, Weymouth - Eastleigh, Salisbury - Eastleigh, Southampton Central - Romsey · 5m · €1 · every ~5 min
Bus20 · 22m · €2 · every ~12 min
St Denys train station facilities and services
St Denys has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at St Denys.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at St Denys.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at St Denys.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at St Denys: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at St Denys: Bike Parking.
Which Leicester station do trains from Southampton arrive at?
Trains from Southampton to Leicester arrive at Leicester. Leicester is 0 miles (1 km) from Leicester city centre.
LeicesterLeicester station, London Road, Leicester, Leicestershire, LE2 0QB+44 8457125678
City-centre transport
Getting to Leicester from Leicester city centre
BusX7 · 4m · €2 · every ~3 min
16 · 7m · every ~6 min
Hop · 11m · €2 · every ~14 min
Leicester train station facilities and services
Leicester has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Leicester.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Leicester. ATMs are available at Leicester.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Leicester. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 08000 11 33 23, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Leicester: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Leicester: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Leicester: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category A access station. There is step free access to the main entrance and lifts to all platforms. Customers with wheelchairs who require assistance on graduated slopes should press the ticket gate 'assistance' button located at the bottom of the stairs near the self service ticket machines. To ensure availability of staff to assist, it is imperative that customers book assistance in advance. This station has tactile paving at the edge of all platforms and at the bottom of all staircases, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
More options for your journey from Southampton to Leicester
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Leicester and Southampton
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