Swansea
Swansea
Leicester
Leicester
Train Driving

Swansea to Leicester

Updated: 31 May 2026

The journey from Swansea to Leicester is approximately 250 km. Rail travel requires changing at Birmingham New Street. Driving via the M4, M5, and M1 is the most direct road route. Leicester is a historic city in Leicestershire.

Total Distance: 250 km driving, 220 km air distance.
Fastest Way
Driving via M4 and M1, taking 3.5 hours.
Cheapest Way
Train booked in advance via CrossCountry.
Compare Swansea to Leicester Routes
Train
Connecting
Driving
Direct
Duration 4 hours 3 hours 30 mins
Avg Price 60-110 GBP 50 GBP fuel
Operator Transport for Wales / CrossCountry Personal Car
Route Swansea to Birmingham, then Birmingham to Leicester. M4, M5, M42, M1.
Tip Leicester station is a short walk from the city center. The M1 can be very busy; check traffic before you leave.
Travel Tips
  • Booking
    Book train tickets early for the best prices.
  • Parking
    Use the park and ride to avoid city center traffic.
  • Navigation
    Leicester city center is very walkable.
  • Food
    Try the local Leicestershire produce.
  • Apps
    Use the CrossCountry app for live train updates.
Safety Tips
  • City Safety
    Leicester is very safe, but keep bags secure.
  • Driving
    Be aware of the M1 traffic.
  • Station
    Leicester station is very central.
  • Emergency
    Keep emergency contacts saved in your phone.
People Also Ask
  • Is Leicester walkable?
    Yes, the city center is very compact.
  • How long is the train?
    Around 4 hours with changes.
  • Are there direct trains?
    No, you must change in Birmingham.
  • Is parking easy?
    Use park and ride to save time and money.
  • Can I take a dog?
    Yes, dogs are allowed on trains.
Quick Info
  • From Swansea, Swansea, United Kingdom
  • To Leicester, Leicestershire, United Kingdom
  • Modes
Best Time to Travel

Spring and Summer for the beautiful gardens.

Things to Do in Leicester
1
Leicester Cathedral
Visit the world-famous cathedral.
2
King Richard III Visitor Centre
Explore the historic site.
3
New Walk Museum
Discover the city's history.
4
National Space Centre
Visit the world-famous museum.
Tags
Swansea to Leicester train driving to Leicester Leicestershire travel train from Wales to Leicester fastest route to Leicester Swansea transport Leicester rail station M4 to M1 route UK travel guide cheapest train tickets
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