Is there a direct train?

No, all rail routes from Kendal to Leicester require at least one change.

How far is the drive?

The drive is approximately 165 miles via the M6 and M1.

National Express operates coaches, but they are significantly slower than the train.

Where do I change trains?

Preston is the most common interchange point for this journey.

Is parking available at Oxenholme?

Yes, there is a large multi-story car park managed by Avanti West Coast.

Kendal

Leicester

Train Driving

Kendal to Leicester

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Kendal to Leicester covers approximately 165 miles. You will typically start at Oxenholme Lake District station, located just outside Kendal. Most travelers take an Avanti West Coast train to Preston or Rugby before transferring to an East Midlands Railway service. The route traverses the heart of the English Midlands, offering views of the Pennines and the Trent Valley. Expect a total travel time of around 3 hours depending on connection efficiency.

Total Distance: Driving distance 165 miles (265 km); straight-line distance 130 miles (209 km).

Fastest Way

Train, taking approximately 3 hours 15 minutes including one change.

Cheapest Way

Train, if booked as an Advance ticket, can be as low as 45 GBP.

Compare Kendal to Leicester Routes

	Train Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	3 hours 15 mins	3 hours 45 mins
Avg Price	45-110 GBP	40-60 GBP fuel
Operator	Avanti West Coast and EMR	N/A
Route	Oxenholme Lake District to Preston to Leicester	M6 motorway south to M1 junction 21
Tip	Book your tickets at least 12 weeks in advance to secure Advance single fares.	Avoid the M6 during Friday afternoon peak hours to prevent significant delays near Birmingham.

Travel Tips

Station Access
Oxenholme station is a short taxi ride or bus journey from Kendal town center.
Ticket Splitting
Check if splitting your ticket at Preston saves money compared to a through-fare.
Luggage
Trains have limited overhead space; travel light if possible for easier transfers.
Wi-Fi
Avanti West Coast trains offer complimentary Wi-Fi for standard class passengers.
Parking
Oxenholme station has a large pay-and-display car park if you choose to drive to the station.

Safety Tips

Platform Safety
Always stand behind the yellow line on station platforms.
Emergency Contacts
Save the British Transport Police text number 61016 for any security concerns on trains.
Road Awareness
The M6 is a high-speed motorway; ensure your vehicle is checked for long-distance travel.
Personal Belongings
Keep your bags in sight at all times in busy stations like Preston or Leicester.