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Leicester, Leicestershire to Manchester, Greater Manchester from $17: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Leicester, United Kingdom
to
Manchester, United Kingdom

How to Get from Leicester to Manchester: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$17 by busBest price
108 milesDistance
1h 59m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Leicester to Manchester with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
various
Train
Average Duration
2h  13m
Estimated price
$37-83
Recommended
Company
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
3h  50m
Estimated price
$17-24
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 108 miles
Duration: 1h 59m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
4h  6m
Estimated price
$20-29
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
1h  59m
Estimated price
$35-55
Company
various
Train
Average Duration
2h  19m
Estimated price
$62-165
Company
various
Train
Average Duration
2h  49m
Estimated price
$70-203

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 06/01Tu 07/01We 08/01Th 09/01Fr 10/01Sa 11/01Su 12/01
Bus $10 $9 $9 $9 $11 $12 $11
Train $36 $31 $31 $48 $30 $22 $29
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Traveling From Leicester to Manchester

The journey from Leicester to Manchester offers a striking contrast between Leicester's rich history and vibrant culture and Manchester's dynamic urban landscape and thriving music scene.

Best Neighbourhoods in Manchester

Manchester boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences for travelers.

Northern Quarter
• Known for vibrant street art and indie shops.
• Home to a lively music and nightlife scene.
Deansgate
• Features upscale dining and shopping options.
• Close to key attractions like the Arena.
Castlefield
• Offers scenic canals and historical architecture.
• Ideal for peaceful walks and relaxed cafes.

Best Times To Visit Manchester's Attractions

Timing your visits can greatly enhance your Manchester experience.

The Science and Industry Museum
Visit early on weekdays to enjoy a quieter exploration.
Manchester Art Gallery
Consider mid-mornings during weekdays for fewer visitors.
Etihad Stadium
Book early tours for mornings or weekdays to avoid crowds.

Manchester Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Manchester experiences a temperate maritime climate, with mild temperatures and frequent rainfall throughout the year. The best times to visit are late spring and early autumn when the weather is generally mild, making it more enjoyable to explore the city's vibrant outdoor attractions.

Dining Recommendation

In Manchester, try the famous Manchester Tart, a delightful pastry filled with custard and topped with jam and coconut, showcasing the city's unique take on dessert. This experience contrasts with Leicester's more traditional fare, offering a vibrant mix of local ingredients and a lively atmosphere at restaurants like The Refuge, which celebrates the city's diverse culinary scene.

Leicester - Manchester operators

Explore transport companies operating between Leicester and Manchester, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Train Show train routes
Contact phone
03457 125 678
Website
https://www.eastmidlandsrailway.co.uk/

Train from Leicester to Sheffield

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
$26-45

Train from Sheffield to Manchester Piccadilly

Average Duration
52m
Estimated price
$17-35
Contact phone
+44 345 600 1671
Website
https://www.tpexpress.co.uk/

Train from Sheffield to Manchester Piccadilly

Average Duration
54m
Estimated price
$15-40
Contact phone
+44 800 200 6060
Website
https://www.northernrailway.co.uk/

Train from Sheffield to Manchester Piccadilly

Average Duration
1h 18m
Estimated price
$10-14
Contact phone
0344 736 9123
Website
https://www.crosscountrytrains.co.uk/

Train from Leicester to Nuneaton

Average Duration
25m
Estimated price
$22-35

Train from Leicester to Birmingham New Street

Average Duration
57m
Estimated price
$30-65

Train from Birmingham New Street to Manchester Piccadilly

Average Duration
1h 28m
Estimated price
$55-140
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300
Website
https://www.flixbus.co.uk

Bus from Leicester St Margarets bus station to Manchester

Average Duration
3h 50m
Estimated price
$17-24

Leicester to Manchester: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Leicester and Manchester offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a picturesque road trip from Leicester to Manchester, traversing a distance of 107 miles in under 2 hours of driving time. 💰 Priced between £28 to £43, the journey offers a cost-effective and convenient way to reach the vibrant city of Manchester from the historic town of Leicester.
Average price
£27 - £43
🚆 The total travel time, including transfers, is approximately 2 hours and 13 minutes. The final destination for this route is Manchester Piccadilly station, which is served by TransPennine Express Service. 🎫 Ticket prices for the train from Leicester to Manchester range from £29 to £66. This convenient and efficient train route provides a great way to travel between these two vibrant cities in the UK.
Departure Point
Leicester station
Arrival Point
Manchester Piccadilly station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On your train trip from Leicester to Manchester, consider traveling with East Midlands Railway, which offers onboard catering services. You can enjoy an array of snacks, light meals, and beverages available for purchase. They may also have a trolley service offering hot and cold drinks while traveling.
• The train service from Leicester to Manchester typically provides a choice between Standard Class and First Class seating. Standard Class offers comfortable seating with power sockets, while First Class provides more spacious seating, complimentary refreshments, and access to First Class lounges at certain stations. Be sure to check the East Midlands Railway website for any special offers on seat upgrades: eastmidlandsrailway.co.uk
• Upon arriving at Manchester Piccadilly station, you can easily navigate to the city center by following the signs leading to the tram station, where you can catch the tram service towards the city center. The Metrolink tram line is a quick way to get there, specifically tram line 2 or 3, which takes around 10 minutes to reach Piccadilly Gardens. Additionally, if you need to store luggage, there are services available at the station; just look for the luggage lockers. Restrooms are available throughout the station, but showers may not be available. Check the Manchester Piccadilly station website for more details: nationalrail.co.uk
🚌 Starting from Leicester St Margarets bus station, the FlixBus service departs once daily for Manchester and takes approximately 3 hours and 50 minutes to reach the destination. 🚌 Prices for the bus ride between Leicester and Manchester range from £13 to £19, offering an affordable and comfortable way to travel between these two cities in the United Kingdom.
Departure Point
Leicester St Margarets bus station
Arrival Point
Manchester station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Arrive at Leicester St Margarets bus station at least 30 minutes early, as boarding can be a bit disorganized, especially for the FlixBus that operates once daily; check the latest info on their site FlixBus.
• During your approximately 3 hour and 50-minute journey, take advantage of the free Wi-Fi on the FlixBus; download a podcast or some entertainment to make the trip enjoyable.
• Upon arriving at Manchester Station, follow the signs to ‘City Centre’ for easy access to public transport; the station is well-connected with trams and buses, and you can find maps and schedules at Transport for Greater Manchester.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Leicester to Manchester.

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The distance between Leicester and Manchester is approximately 75 miles by road. The typical travel time by train is around 2 hours and 14 minutes. By car, it takes about 1 hour and 59 minutes to travel from Manchester to Leicester, and by bus, the journey takes approximately 3 hours and 50 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Leicester to Manchester is by taking the bus, which costs between £15 and £23 and takes approximately 3 hours and 50 minutes. However, if time efficiency is a priority, then driving would be the quickest option. It takes around 1 hour and 59 minutes to drive from Leicester to Manchester and costs between £27 and £43. Both options have their advantages depending on individual preferences and priorities.
The prices of a train ticket from Leicester to Manchester can range from £35 to £166, depending on factors such as the class of travel, time of booking, and availability. On the other hand, the prices of a bus ticket from Manchester to Leicester typically range from £16 to £22. It's recommended to check with the specific transportation providers for the most accurate and up-to-date prices and to book in advance for any possible discounts.
If you prefer not to use public transportation, the best way to travel from Leicester to Manchester is by car. The driving distance is approximately 107 miles and it takes around 1 hour and 59 minutes to reach Manchester from Leicester by car. The cost of driving between the two cities can vary, ranging from £27 to £43, depending on factors such as fuel prices and tolls.
The best way to travel from Leicester to Manchester without a car is by taking a train via Sheffield. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 14 minutes. The cost of the train ticket ranges from £35 to £173, depending on the class and time of travel. This route offers a convenient and efficient option for those looking to travel between Leicester and Manchester without their own vehicle.
Yes, there is a direct link between Leicester and Manchester, but it requires transfers. The train services operated by East Midlands Railways depart from Leicester and arrive at Manchester Piccadilly via Sheffield, taking approximately 2 hours and 14 minutes. There is also a bus service operated by FlixBus, which departs from Leicester station and arrives at Manchester via Leicester, taking approximately 3 hours and 50 minutes. Please note that these are typical travel times and may vary.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Manchester. With over 1539 hotels to choose from, you can find something suitable for every budget. Prices start at £23 and vary depending on the location, facilities, and star rating of the hotel. Whether you're looking for a luxury hotel, a budget-friendly option, or something in between, there are plenty of choices available in Manchester.

Trips to Manchester