London
London
Leicester
Leicester
Train Driving

London to Leicester

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from West Wickham to Leicester covers approximately 160 kilometers. The most efficient way to travel is by train from London St Pancras International. Driving via the M1 is a common alternative, though travel times vary based on traffic. Leicester is known for its Roman history, the discovery of King Richard III, and its vibrant multicultural community. The train journey is direct and takes just over an hour.

Total Distance: 160 km by road, 140 km straight-line.
Fastest Way
Train from St Pancras, taking 1 hour 10 minutes.
Cheapest Way
Advance train tickets via East Midlands Railway.
Compare London to Leicester Routes
Train
Direct
Driving
Direct
Duration 1 hour 10 mins 2 hours 30 mins
Avg Price 15 GBP to 50 GBP 30 GBP fuel
Operator East Midlands Railway N/A
Route London St Pancras to Leicester Station. M1 motorway north.
Tip Book in advance to secure the cheapest fares. Parking in Leicester city center can be limited; use public car parks.
Travel Tips
  • Train Booking
    Use the East Midlands Railway website to find the best deals on tickets.
  • Walking
    The city center is compact and very walkable.
  • Food
    Leicester is famous for its incredible Indian cuisine; visit the Golden Mile.
  • Accommodation
    Stay near the city center for easy access to all major attractions.
  • Events
    Check the city's events calendar for festivals and cultural celebrations.
Safety Tips
  • Nightlife
    The city center is busy at night; stick to well-lit areas when walking.
  • Traffic
    Be cautious of traffic when walking in the city center.
  • Emergency
    Leicester is generally safe, but keep your belongings secure in crowded areas.
  • General
    Follow standard safety precautions when traveling in any large city.
People Also Ask
  • Is Leicester a good city to visit?
    Yes, it has a rich history and a vibrant modern culture.
  • How long is the train ride?
    The direct train takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes.
  • Is it expensive?
    Leicester is generally more affordable than London.
  • What is the best way to get to the Space Centre?
    Take a local bus or a short taxi ride from the city center.
  • Can I walk from the station to the city center?
    Yes, it is a short and easy walk.
Quick Info
  • From London, Greater London, United Kingdom
  • To Leicester, Leicestershire, United Kingdom
  • Modes
Best Time to Travel

May to September for pleasant weather to explore the city's parks and museums.

Things to Do in Leicester
1
King Richard III Visitor Centre
Learn about the discovery of the king's remains in a local car park.
2
Leicester Cathedral
Visit the final resting place of King Richard III.
3
New Walk Museum
Explore collections ranging from dinosaurs to ancient Egyptian artifacts.
4
National Space Centre
A fantastic interactive museum dedicated to space exploration and astronomy.
Tags
London to Leicester train East Midlands Railway driving to Leicester M1 motorway Leicester travel guide fastest way to Leicester London to Leicester ticket prices Leicester tourism