- 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 Sunderland to Leicester
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 04
- Cheapest price on Nov 04
- $135
- Average ticket price on Nov 04
- $179
- Fastest journey on Nov 04
- 3 h 56 m
- Average journey duration on Nov 04
- 4 h 13 m
- Trains on Nov 04
- 6
- Distance
- 253 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Sunderland to Leicester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Sunderland to Leicester will cost around $179 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $135.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Sunderland to Leicester without transferring at least 2 times.
TW042000+
G08180 · L01628+
G009648:36 AM 4h13 Sunderland station (SUN) 12:49 PM Leicester station (LEI) $135 1 One-way 3 transfers- C02002+G00964+
C317598:19 AM 4h30 Sunderland station (SUN) 12:49 PM Leicester station (LEI) $135 1 One-way 2 transfers - C02002+
W70793+C31759+
W846738:19 AM 4h11 Sunderland station (SUN) 12:30 PM Leicester station (LEI) $192 1 One-way 3 transfers - W29868+TW037700+W70793
8:00 AM 4h30 Sunderland station (SUN) 12:30 PM Leicester station (LEI) $194 1 One-way 2 transfers 
Y14809+L01628+G009648:32 AM 4h17 Sunderland station (SUN) 12:49 PM Leicester station (LEI) $194 1 One-way 2 transfers
- W29873+W70796+P28640
9:07 AM 3h56 Sunderland station (SUN) 1:03 PM Leicester station (LEI) $223 1 One-way 2 transfers - C02002+W70793+C31759+W84673
8:19 AM 4h11 Sunderland station (SUN) 12:30 PM Leicester station (LEI) $192 1 One-way 3 transfers - TW042000+G08180 · L01628+G00964
8:36 AM 4h13 Sunderland station (SUN) 12:49 PM Leicester station (LEI) $135 1 One-way 3 transfers - Y14809+L01628+G00964
8:32 AM 4h17 Sunderland station (SUN) 12:49 PM Leicester station (LEI) $194 1 One-way 2 transfers - W29868+TW037700+W70793
8:00 AM 4h30 Sunderland station (SUN) 12:30 PM Leicester station (LEI) $194 1 One-way 2 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from Sunderland to Leicester
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Sunderland to Leicester run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 30m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $57 but you can travel from only $24 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 05:48, the last at 19:41. The fastest train covers the 157 miles (253 km) distance in 2h 56m.
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 $24
Plan this route
Journey facts
- Distance157 miles (253 km)
- Average train duration3h 30m
- Cheapest ticket price$57
- Trains per day6
- Fastest train2h 56m
- First train5:48 AM
- Last train7:41 PM
- Cheapest MonthJun
- Cheapest DaySat
- High SeasonApr - Jun
- Low SeasonJul - Sep
- Busiest DayTue
- Least Busy DayTue
- Best time to book21 days
Understand & plan this route
Explore this journey
Book with confidence
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 $24
Frequently asked questions about your Sunderland to Leicester trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Sunderland to Leicester.
Train ticket prices from Sunderland to Leicester can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $57, while the average price is around $140.
The train from Sunderland to Leicester takes 2h 56m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Sunderland to Leicester is 157 miles (253 km).
The first train from Sunderland to Leicester leaves at 5:48 AM.
The last train from Sunderland to Leicester leaves at 7:41 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Sunderland to Leicester.
Live departures
Sunderland to Leicester train times
The table below shows live departures for Sunderland to Leicester trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, November 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| W29868+W70793+TW037700 | 8:00 AM Sunderland station (SUN) | 4h30 | 12:30 PM Leicester station (LEI) | 2 transfers | |
| C02002+G00964+C31759 | 8:19 AM Sunderland station (SUN) | 4h30 | 12:49 PM Leicester station (LEI) | 2 transfers | |
| C02002+W84673+C31759+W70793 | 8:19 AM Sunderland station (SUN) | 4h11 | 12:30 PM Leicester station (LEI) | 3 transfers | |
| Y14809+L01628+G00964 | 8:32 AM Sunderland station (SUN) | 4h17 | 12:49 PM Leicester station (LEI) | 2 transfers | |
| G08180 · L01628+G00964+TW042000 | 8:36 AM Sunderland station (SUN) | 4h13 | 12:49 PM Leicester station (LEI) | 3 transfers | |
| W29873+P28640+W70796 | 9:07 AM Sunderland station (SUN) | 3h56 | 1:03 PM Leicester station (LEI) | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Sunderland to Leicester trains with Omio?
London North Eastern Railway as well as Grand Central Trains, CrossCountry, East Midlands Railway, Transpennine Express and more offer trains services from Sunderland to Leicester.
Omio is the only official third party seller for London North Eastern Railway tickets.
Why book with Omio vs London North Eastern Railway?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for London North Eastern Railway, but also compare tickets for the likes of Grand Central Trains, CrossCountry, East Midlands Railway or Transpennine Express to find the best option for your trip from Sunderland 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 London North Eastern Railway with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Sunderland to Leicester.
Train companies
Train companies from Sunderland to Leicester
Trains from Sunderland to Leicester with London North Eastern Railway, CrossCountry, and Grand Central Trains. High-speed trains available on this route with London North Eastern Railway, Grand Central Trains, and Transpennine Express. Regional trains available on this route with East Midlands Railway. Use the details below to compare onboard facilities.
London North Eastern Railway
About
LNER is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from high-speed intercity trains to local services. Its most popular routes include London to Edinburgh, London to Leeds, and London to York. LNER offers a variety of train types, including the Azuma, InterCity 225, and HST. The Azuma is a modern, high-speed train that offers comfortable seating and onboard Wi-Fi. The InterCity 225 is a classic train that offers a more traditional experience. The HST is a high-speed train that offers a smooth ride and plenty of legroom. LNER offers a variety of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak. Advance tickets are the cheapest option and must be booked in advance. Anytime tickets are more expensive but can be used at any time. Off-Peak tickets are the most affordable option for travelling during off-peak times. Onboard facilities include comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. LNER also offers a range of discounts and special offers, making it an affordable and convenient way to travel.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average London North Eastern Railway Duration
2h 58m
Cheapest London North Eastern Railway Price
$57
London North Eastern Railway frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund available if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First Class passengers receive complimentary refreshments
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are included with Advance tickets. Optional for other ticket types at £0-£2 per person depending on route
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two pets per passenger
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
2h 56m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
$61
CrossCountry frequency
3 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
Grand Central Trains
About
Grand Central Trains is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London to the North East of England, Yorkshire and the East Midlands. Grand Central Trains offers a range of services, including express, semi-fast and stopping services. Express services run between London and the North East, Yorkshire and the East Midlands, with journey times of up to three hours. Semi-fast services run between London and the North East, Yorkshire and the East Midlands, with journey times of up to four hours. Stopping services run between London and the North East, Yorkshire and the East Midlands, with journey times of up to five hours. Grand Central Trains offers a range of ticket types, including Standard, First Class and Advance tickets. Standard tickets are the most economical option, while First Class tickets offer more comfort and space. Advance tickets are available for purchase up to 12 weeks in advance and offer the best value for money. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of snacks and drinks. The most popular routes for Grand Central Trains are London to Bradford, London to Sunderland, London to York and London to Wakefield.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Grand Central Trains Duration
3h 10m
Cheapest Grand Central Trains Price
$74
Grand Central Trains frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at the end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund available if service is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks, plus cafe bar on some services
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended but not mandatory, available for a small fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and ramp assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, dogs allowed with ticket
Quiet zone
Transpennine Express
About
Transpennine Express is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates services from Manchester and Liverpool to Scotland, the North East and Yorkshire. It offers a range of services, including express, regional and local trains. Express trains are the fastest, with journey times of up to three hours. Regional trains are slower, but offer more stops and a more relaxed atmosphere. Local trains are the slowest, but offer the most stops. Transpennine Express offers a range of ticket types, including single, return, group and season tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for Transpennine Express are Manchester to Edinburgh, Liverpool to Leeds and Manchester to York. These routes offer a convenient and comfortable way to travel between the cities.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Transpennine Express Duration
2h 57m
Cheapest Transpennine Express Price
$150
Transpennine Express frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 large items and 1 small hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if service is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks, plus a small selection of hot and cold food items
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are free of charge and recommended for busy routes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance booking service
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone
East Midlands Railway
About
East Midlands Trains is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London to the East Midlands, Yorkshire, and the North West. East Midlands Trains operates a fleet of Class 158, Class 156, Class 170, Class 222 and Class 180 diesel multiple units, as well as Class 222 Meridian electric multiple units. East Midlands Trains also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for East Midlands Trains are London to Nottingham, Sheffield, and Leeds.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average East Midlands Railway Duration
2h 59m
Cheapest East Midlands Railway Price
$187
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
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Sunderland and Leicester
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Sunderland to Leicester.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Sunderland to Leicester.
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.
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.
Plan your visit to Leicester
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Leicester.
The train journey from Sunderland to Leicester offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, passing through the scenic countryside of northeast England and the Midlands, though it is not typically noted for being especially scenic compared to other UK routes.
Popular day trips by train from Leicester include Nottingham, Birmingham, Derby, Loughborough, Beeston.
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.
FAQs: Trains from Sunderland to Leicester
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Sunderland 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.
Yes, you can take the train from Sunderland to Leicester.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Sunderland to Leicester
Most Sunderland to Leicester trains use the Sunderland to Leicester station pair. Use this guide to compare Sunderland and Leicester train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Sunderland
Arrival train stations in Leicester
Which Sunderland station do trains to Leicester leave from?
Trains from Sunderland to Leicester leave from Sunderland. The station is from Sunderland city centre at Sunderland station, Athenaeum Street, Sunderland, Tyne and Wear, SR1 3HP.
SunderlandSunderland station, Athenaeum Street, Sunderland, Tyne and Wear, SR1 3HP
City-centre transport
Getting to Sunderland from Sunderland city centre
Onward travel informationBusline 0871 200 2233
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesPick Up / Drop Off in Fawcett Street, near to the Travel Centre entrance in Athenaeum Street, outside Wilkinsons.
MetroTyne and Wear metro station close to the station. 0191 203 3333
Sunderland train station facilities and services
Sunderland has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Sunderland.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Sunderland.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Sunderland: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Sunderland: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Sunderland: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A station, Lifts to all platforms for disabled passengers from the North end of the station. Open for all services, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Located on the North Concourse and accepts cash and cards, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: As per ticket office opening hours, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Which Leicester station do trains from Sunderland arrive at?
Trains from Sunderland 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 · $3 · every ~3 min
16 · 7m · every ~6 min
Hop · 11m · $3 · 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.
Train stations for Sunderland to Leicester
Check train stations information for Sunderland and Leicester, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Sunderland that goes to Leicester is Sunderland, which connects to Leicester.
Most popular trains to and from Leicester and Sunderland
Most popular train connections to Leicester
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