Saint Austell
Saint Austell
Leicester
Leicester
Train Driving

Saint Austell to Leicester

Updated: 29 May 2026

The journey from St Austell to Leicester covers approximately 400 kilometers. By train, you travel via GWR to London Paddington, transfer to London St Pancras, and take an East Midlands Railway service to Leicester. Driving involves taking the A30, M5, M42, and M1. Expect a travel time of 5 hours 30 minutes. This route connects the Cornish coast with the historic city of Leicester.

Total Distance: Driving distance 410 km, straight-line air distance 330 km.
Fastest Way
Driving, taking approximately 5 hours.
Cheapest Way
Advance train tickets booked via the GWR website.
Compare Saint Austell to Leicester Routes
Train
Connecting
Driving
Direct
Duration 5 hours 30 mins 5 hours
Avg Price £80 - £160 £70 - £110 in fuel
Operator GWR and East Midlands Railway Personal Vehicle
Route St Austell to London Paddington, transfer to London St Pancras, then to Leicester. A30, M5, M42, M1.
Tip The transfer between Paddington and St Pancras is best done via the London Underground. The M1 is a major motorway and can be busy.
Travel Tips
  • London Transfer
    Allow at least 60 minutes for the transfer between Paddington and St Pancras.
  • M1 Traffic
    Use a navigation app to avoid M1 congestion.
  • Train App
    Use the GWR app for live train times.
  • Parking
    Leicester city center parking is limited; use park-and-ride.
  • Off-Peak Fares
    Travel outside of peak hours to save on your rail ticket.
Safety Tips
  • Road Safety
    The M1 is a very busy motorway; stay focused.
  • Station Safety
    London stations are very busy; keep your belongings secure.
  • Emergency Numbers
    Dial 999 for any emergency assistance.
  • Vehicle Check
    Check your tire pressure before a long drive.
People Also Ask
  • Is there a direct train?
    No, you must change in London.
  • How long is the drive?
    It takes about 5.5 hours.
  • Are there ferries?
    No, Leicester is inland.
  • Is the M1 busy?
    Yes, it is a major route to Leicester.
  • Where to park in Leicester?
    Use the park-and-ride services.
Quick Info
  • From Saint Austell, Cornwall, United Kingdom
  • To Leicester, Leicestershire, United Kingdom
  • Modes
Best Time to Travel

May to September for pleasant weather.

Things to Do in Leicester
1
King Richard III Visitor Centre
A fascinating museum dedicated to the life and death of King Richard III.
2
Leicester Cathedral
The final resting place of King Richard III.
3
Charlestown Harbour
A historic port near St Austell, perfect for a scenic walk.
4
New Walk Museum
A local history and art museum in Leicester.
Tags
St Austell to Leicester Cornwall to Leicestershire train to Leicester driving to Leicester GWR East Midlands Railway St Austell station Leicester station UK travel