Is there a direct train?

No, you must change at Shrewsbury and Birmingham New Street.

How long is the drive?

Approximately 4 hours under normal traffic conditions.

No, there are no toll roads on this specific route.

Yes, but you must reserve a space on the train in advance.

Is it better to drive or train?

Driving is faster, but the train offers a more relaxing scenic experience.

Criccieth

Leicester

Train Driving

Criccieth to Leicester

Updated: 29 May 2026

The journey from the coastal town of Criccieth to the Midlands city of Leicester covers approximately 240 kilometers. You will primarily utilize the Transport for Wales rail network before connecting to Avanti West Coast or East Midlands Railway services. Driving involves navigating the A487 and A5 roads through the scenic Snowdonia National Park. Expect a travel time of around 4 to 5 hours depending on your chosen mode. This route transitions from the rugged Welsh coastline to the heart of the English Midlands.

Total Distance: 240 km driving distance, 195 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving, typically 4 hours depending on M6 traffic conditions.

Cheapest Way

Train, when booked as an Advance Single ticket well ahead of travel.

Compare Criccieth to Leicester Routes

	Train Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	4 hours 30 mins	4 hours
Avg Price	50-120 GBP	45-60 GBP in fuel
Operator	Transport for Wales / Avanti West Coast	Personal Vehicle
Route	Criccieth Station to Leicester Station via Shrewsbury and Birmingham New Street.	A487 to A5, then M54 and M6 towards Leicester.
Tip	Book your tickets via the Trainline app at least 12 weeks in advance for the lowest fares.	Be aware of heavy traffic on the M6 near Birmingham during peak morning and evening hours.

Travel Tips

Rail Connections
Always check for engineering works on the Cambrian Line before departing.
Parking
Leicester city centre parking is limited; use the Park and Ride services for convenience.
Weather
Welsh coastal weather changes rapidly; carry a waterproof jacket even in summer.
Connectivity
Mobile signal can be intermittent in the mountainous regions of Snowdonia.
Booking
Use the Railcard discount if you are eligible to save one-third on your train fare.

Safety Tips

Road Safety
The A5 through Snowdonia has many winding sections; drive with caution in wet conditions.
Station Safety
Keep your luggage with you at all times in busy hubs like Birmingham New Street.
Emergency
Dial 999 for emergency services in the UK if you encounter a serious incident.
Night Travel
Avoid driving on unlit rural Welsh roads late at night if you are not familiar with the area.