- Must visit
M Leuven
The city’s main museum of art and history, known for Flemish masters, contemporary exhibitions, and a central location near the old center.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from London to Leuven
Showing times and prices for Jun 20
Cheapest price
$110
Average price
$188
Fastest journey
2 h 1 m
Average duration
2 h 47 m
Trains per day
7
Distance
343 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from London to Leuven is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from London to Leuven will cost around $188 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $110.
Fast trains
Of the 7 trains that leave London for Leuven on Sat, Jun 20, 7 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Jun 20 the direct trains cover the 343 km distance in an average of 2 h 47 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 1 m .
On Sat, Jun 20 the slowest trains will take 3 h 3 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.
7:34 PM2h01London9:35 PMLeuven$1101One-way0 transfers- 9:01 AM3h03London12:04 PMLeuven$1281One-way0 transfers
- 10:01 AM3h03London1:04 PMLeuven$1461One-way0 transfers
- 8:01 AM3h09London11:10 AMLeuven$1691One-way0 transfers
- 7:16 AM2h48London10:04 AMLeuven$2321One-way0 transfers
- 7:34 PM2h01London9:35 PMLeuven$1101One-way0 transfers
- 7:16 AM2h48London10:04 AMLeuven$2321One-way0 transfers
- 11:04 AM3h00London2:04 PMLeuven$2661One-way0 transfers
- 9:01 AM3h03London12:04 PMLeuven$1281One-way0 transfers
- 10:01 AM3h03London1:04 PMLeuven$1461One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for London to Leuven
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from London to Leuven among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from $29. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 14m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $29, and a train costs an average of $71.
Distance: 213 miles (343 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$195 Average price | $64 Average price Cheapest | $68 Average price | $44 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 41m Average total duration 2h 11m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 14m Average total duration Fastest 1h 14m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 11h 14m Average total duration 10h 44m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 33m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 1.0 - 2.1kg CO2 emissions | 0.3 - 0.9kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | 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 London to Leuven is a flight with an average price of $64 (€53).
This is compared to other travel options from London to Leuven:
A flight is $3 (€3) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from London to Leuven costing on average $68 (€55).
A flight is $130 (€107) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from London to Leuven costing on average $195 (€160).
The fastest way to travel from London to Leuven is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 14m.
Other travel options to Leuven take longer:
Train takes on average 2h 11m.
Bus takes on average 10h 44m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between London and Leuven including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from London to Leuven among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 3h 22m sooner (2h 11m by train vs 5h 33m by car). Tickets start at around $195 (€160) compared to roughly $44 (€36) in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
London to Leuven train times
The table below shows live departures for London to Leuven trains for today, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9106 | 6:16 AM London St Pancras International (STP) | 1h57 | 9:13 AM Brussels-Midi | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9110 | 7:04 AM London St Pancras International (STP) | 2h01 | 10:05 AM Brussels-Midi | 0 transfersDirect | |
9114+ 1510 · 5733 | 8:16 AM London St Pancras International (STP) | 3h07 | 12:23 PM Heverlee | 2 transfers | |
| 9114 | 8:16 AM London St Pancras International (STP) | 1h57 | 11:13 AM Brussels-Midi | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9114+1510 | 8:16 AM London St Pancras International (STP) | 2h48 | 12:04 PM Leuven station | 1 transfer | |
| 9116 | 9:01 AM London St Pancras International (STP) | 2h04 | 12:05 PM Brussels-Midi | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9116+411 | 9:01 AM London St Pancras International (STP) | 2h54 | 12:55 PM Leuven station | 1 transfer | |
| 9116+411 · 5734 | 9:01 AM London St Pancras International (STP) | 3h22 | 1:23 PM Heverlee | 2 transfers | |
| 9126+413 · 5736 | 11:04 AM London St Pancras International (STP) | 3h19 | 3:23 PM Heverlee | 2 transfers | |
| 9126 | 11:04 AM London St Pancras International (STP) | 2h01 | 2:05 PM Brussels-Midi | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9126+413 | 11:04 AM London St Pancras International (STP) | 2h51 | 2:55 PM Leuven station | 1 transfer | |
| 9132 | 1:01 PM London St Pancras International (STP) | 2h05 | 4:06 PM Brussels-Midi | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9140 | 3:04 PM London St Pancras International (STP) | 2h01 | 6:05 PM Brussels-Midi | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9148 | 5:04 PM London St Pancras International (STP) | 2h01 | 8:05 PM Brussels-Midi | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9152 | 6:04 PM London St Pancras International (STP) | 2h05 | 9:09 PM Brussels-Midi | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9158 | 7:34 PM London St Pancras International (STP) | 2h01 | 10:35 PM Brussels-Midi | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets London to Leuven by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, and flight 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
Jun 20
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Jun 22
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Jun 23
Wed
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Fri
Jun 26
Jun 26
Why should you book London to Leuven trains with Omio?
Eurostar as well as Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) offer trains services from London to Leuven.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from London to Leuven.
Why book with Omio vs Eurostar?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Eurostar, but also compare tickets for the likes of Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) to find the best option for your trip from London to Leuven.
- 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 Eurostar with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from London to Leuven.
Why book with Omio over Rome2rio?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from London to Leuven.
Journey information
Overview: Train from London to Leuven
United Kingdom
Belgium
Trains from London to Leuven run on average 7 times per day, taking around 2h 11m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $71 (€58) but you can travel from only $29 (€24) by flight.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:25, the last at 21:21. The fastest train covers the 213 miles (343 km) distance in 1h 57m.
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
Flight from $29 (€24)
Distance 213 miles (343 km) |
Average train duration 2h 11m |
Cheapest ticket price $71 (€58) |
Trains per day 7 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 1h 57m |
First train 5:25 AM |
Last train 9:21 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Tue |
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
Flight from $29 (€24)
Train companies: Eurostar, Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) from London to Leuven trainsEurostar, Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) trains will get you between London and Leuven from $29 (€24). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Eurostar
About
Eurostar is a high-speed international rail service connecting the UK with France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany, primarily via the Channel Tunnel. Since merging with Thalys in October 2023, Eurostar now operates an expanded network across Western Europe. Known for its city-center to city-center travel, Eurostar offers a convenient and environmentally friendly alternative to flying. Passengers can enjoy amenities like complimentary Wi-Fi and power sockets at every seat. Key destinations include London, Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam, and Cologne, with seasonal services to other locations.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 57m
Cheapest Price
$71 (€58)
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included in standard ticket
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage areas at the end of carriages and overhead racks
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies depend on ticket type and timing of cancellation
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Café-bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First-class passengers receive complimentary meals on some routes
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for all classes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/disembarking available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed for a fee. Large dogs not permitted except guide dogs
Quiet zone
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 35m
Cheapest Price
$212 (€174)
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) frequency
4 a day
Complete guide to Leuven
Things to do in Leuven
Discover the best of Leuven — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Leuven trip today.
- Recommended
University Library Tower
A historic university library with exhibitions and access to the tower, combining memorial significance with panoramic views over Leuven.
- Recommended
Parcum
A museum and dialogue center in the Abbey of Park focused on religion, art, and heritage, popular for its setting and thoughtful temporary exhibitions.
- Must visit
Oude Markt
Leuven’s famous central square lined with historic facades, one of the liveliest and most recognizable gathering places in the city.
- Must visit
Grote Markt
The city’s ceremonial heart, framed by the Town Hall and Saint Peter’s Church, and ideal for first-time visitors exploring central Leuven.
- Must visit
Great Beguinage Streets
A peaceful maze of historic lanes and small bridges that offers one of Leuven’s most photogenic and atmospheric walks.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Stella Artois
Leuven’s most famous beer, first brewed in the city and closely tied to its brewing heritage. A classic Belgian pale lager best tried fresh locally.
Witloof Met Hesp En Kaas
A classic Belgian dish of braised endive wrapped in ham and baked with cheese sauce. Very common in Flemish homes and brasseries.
Stoofvlees
Rich Flemish beef stew slowly cooked with dark beer, often served with fries. A comforting regional staple with deep beer-driven flavor.
Zarza
Refined fine-dining restaurant recognized for creative contemporary cuisine, polished service, and an elegant setting for a special meal.
Baracca
Popular upscale Italian restaurant with stylish decor, known for quality ingredients, wood-fired cooking, and a vibrant atmosphere.
Domus
Well-known Leuven brewpub and brasserie serving Belgian classics and house-brewed beer in a lively, traditional setting near the old center.
Euro
Moderate for Belgium: student spots keep lunches affordable, but central hotels and dinner prices are higher.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-15 for fries, sandwiches, or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- EUR 20-35 per person for a main and drink.
- Fine dining
- EUR 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 3-4.50 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Tipping is modest: round up or leave 5-10% for very good service. Small tips for taxis are appreciated, but not expected.
De Lijn
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 2.50 EUR
- Day pass
- 7.50 EUR
To the city center
Leuven Railway Station, Leuven -> Leuven City Center, Leuven
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- You can usually pay contactless by card or mobile on De Lijn buses and trams, but buying in advance is often cheaper.
- In Leuven, the railway station is within walking distance of the center, so walking is often the simplest option.
FAQs: Trains from London to Leuven
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from London to Leuven 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 Leuven, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from London to Leuven can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $71 (€58), while the average price is around $195 (€160).
The train from London to Leuven takes 1h 57m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from London to Leuven leaves at 5:25 AM.
The distance by train from London to Leuven is 213 miles (343 km).
The last train from London to Leuven leaves at 9:21 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from London to Leuven.
There is no direct train service currently available from London to Leuven.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from London to Leuven.
The train station in London that goes to Leuven is London St Pancras International (STP), which connects to Leuven station.
The cheapest way to get from London to Leuven is by flight, with a cost of around $29 (€24).
The train journey from London to Leuven offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, passing through the English countryside, the Eurotunnel, and Belgian landscapes, including charming towns and fields, providing a pleasant visual experience.
A day trip from London to Leuven is not feasible as the journey takes 1h 57m. However, there are 6 trains per day covering a distance of 213 miles (343 km).
In Leuven, you can visit the University Library and Bell Tower to explore its historic significance and enjoy panoramic city views. The Old Market Square offers vibrant nightlife with numerous cafes and is famously known as the longest bar in the world. Art enthusiasts can discover the M-Museum Leuven, which features both contemporary and historical art exhibitions. For a peaceful retreat, stroll through the Botanical Garden Kruidtuin, the oldest botanical garden in Belgium. Lastly, admire the stunning Gothic architecture of the Town Hall, adorned with intricate sculptures.
Two to three days in Leuven is ideal to explore its historic university, visit the M-Museum, enjoy the vibrant atmosphere at the Oude Markt, and wander through the picturesque streets and parks.
Yes, you can take the train from London to Leuven.
Leuven is within the Schengen Area. Passport and visa requirements depend on your nationality. 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 Leuven include Brussels, Paris, Antwerp, Cologne, Bruges.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from London to Leuven among Omio's users.
Currently, UK citizens do not need a visa for short stays (up to 90 days in a 180-day period) for tourism or business in the Schengen Area. However, the new ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) is scheduled to launch in late 2026. Once active, this digital travel authorization will be a mandatory pre-travel requirement for all UK passport holders.
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.
Belgium uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers generally find card payments widely accepted in cities, restaurants, and shops, though carrying some cash is advisable for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Leuven, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the train station and city center. Common scams include overcharging at bars or restaurants and unofficial taxi services. It's advisable to keep belongings secure and use licensed transportation options to ensure safety.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from London to Leuven
Most London to Leuven trains use the London St Pancras International to Leuven station pair, with some services arriving at Bruxelles-Midi. Use this guide to compare London and Leuven train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in London
Arrival train stations in Leuven
London St Pancras InternationalPancras Road, London, Greater London, N1C 4QP, UK+44 2078437688
City-centre transport
Getting to London St Pancras International from London city centre
Bus91, N91 · 23m · $13 · every ~28 min
73, N73 · 26m · $2 · every ~33 min
390 · 48m · $2 · every ~27 min
SubwayPiccadilly · 11m · $2 · every ~91 min
London St Pancras International train station facilities and services
London St Pancras International has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: The Betjeman Arms, AMT Coffee, The Booking Office, Carluccio’s, Chop’d, Greggs
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free, unlimited WiFi is available throughout the station. ATMs are located in the Circle area and inside the Arcade.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Fri: 05:45 - 22:00, Sat: 06:00 - 21:00, Sun: 08:00 - 22:15. Information desks are located on the lower level in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is luggage lockers are located on the lower concourse close to the Eurostar line. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at London St Pancras International: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at London St Pancras International: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at London St Pancras International: Wheelchair access, elevators, escalators, complimentary assistance for passengers with reduced mobility and other needs.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include The Standard, Kimpton Fitzroy London, Alhambra Hotel.
Which Leuven station do trains from London arrive at?
Trains from London to Leuven most often arrive at Leuven. Some services arrive at Bruxelles-Midi, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Leuven arrival station.
LeuvenMartelarenplein 16, 3000 Leuven, Belgium+32 2 528 28 28
City-centre transport
Getting to Leuven from Leuven city centre
Leuven is 1 km from Leuven city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus1, 2, 3, 4, 5a, 5b, 4b, 40, 41, 42, 43, 406, 520, 524, 525, 597, N1, N2, N3, N4, N5, N6, N7, N8 · 8m · $4 · every ~49 min
Leuven train station facilities and services
Leuven has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: De Klimop, Domus
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Leuven. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Leuven. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Leuven: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Leuven: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Leuven: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel La Royale, Park Inn by Radisson Leuven, Hotel Mille Colonnes.
Heverlee3001 Leuven, Belgium
City-centre transport
Getting to Heverlee from Leuven city centre
Heverlee is 1 km from Leuven city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainS20, L · 9m · $2 · every ~3 min
Heverlee train station facilities and services
Heverlee has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Heverlee.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Heverlee.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Heverlee: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Heverlee: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Heverlee.
More options for your journey from London to Leuven
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Leuven and London
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