Leicester, Leicestershire to Bournemouth, Dorset from $38: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

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$38 - Bus, train via Southampton Airport (SOU)Best price

137.1 milesDistance

2h 51m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Leicester to Bournemouth 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.

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Traveling From Leicester to Bournemouth

The journey from Leicester to Bournemouth offers a fascinating contrast between Leicester's rich history and cultural vibrancy and Bournemouth's stunning coastal scenery and laid-back beach atmosphere.

Best Neighbourhoods in Bournemouth

Bournemouth boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering its own charm and attractions.

Westbourne

• Known for boutique shops and cafes.

• Close to Bournemouth's beautiful beaches.

Boscombe

• Features a vibrant arts scene and live music venues.

• Offers a relaxed, surf-friendly atmosphere.

Southbourne

• Renowned for its sandy beach and cliff-top views.

• Family-friendly with local parks and eateries.

Best Times To Visit Bournemouth's Attractions

Planning your visit to Bournemouth? Timing can enhance your experience at its attractions.

Bournemouth Beach

Early mornings during weekdays offer peaceful views and fewer visitors.

Bournemouth Pier

Visit in the late afternoon for stunning sunset views without the crowds.

The Lower Gardens

Weekdays in the spring provide a quieter atmosphere and blooming flowers.

Bournemouth Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Bournemouth enjoys a temperate maritime climate, featuring mild winters and warm summers, with the sunniest months typically being June through August. The weather plays a significant role in your travel experience, as sunny days are ideal for beach activities and outdoor exploration.

Dining Recommendation

While in Bournemouth, try the freshly caught seafood at The Crab at Bournemouth, where their signature dish, the Dorset crab, truly showcases local flavors. This coastal dining experience offers a refreshing contrast to Leicester’s diverse culinary scene, allowing you to savor the unique taste of the sea in a vibrant beachside atmosphere.

Leicester - Bournemouth operators

Explore transport companies operating between Leicester and Bournemouth, 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 London St Pancras Intl

Average Duration

1h 5m

Estimated price

$40-60

Train from Birmingham New Street to Bournemouth

Average Duration

3h 12m

Estimated price

$95-280

Contact phone

0345 6000 650

Website

https://www.southwesternrailway.com/

Train from London Waterloo to Bournemouth

Average Duration

1h 56m

Estimated price

$60-140

Train from Southampton Airport Parkway to Bournemouth

Average Duration

47m

Estimated price

$19-45

Contact phone

0344 736 9123

Website

https://www.crosscountrytrains.co.uk/

Train from Leicester to Birmingham New Street

Average Duration

57m

Estimated price

$30-65

Train from Leamington Spa to Bournemouth

Average Duration

2h 36m

Estimated price

$85-240

Bus Show bus routes

Contact phone

01604 67 60 60

Website

https://www.stagecoachbus.com/about/midlands

Bus from St Margaret's Bus Station to Bus Station

Average Duration

1h 19m

Estimated price

$3-5

Contact phone

0344 800 4411

Website

https://arrivabus.co.uk

Bus from Rutland Street to Pool Meadow Bus Station

Average Duration

1h 30m

Estimated price

$3-3

Bus from St Margaret's Bus Station to Bus Station

Average Duration

1h 19m

Estimated price

$3-3

Website

https://uk.megabus.com

Bus from Pool Meadow Bus Station to Southampton Airport Parkway Rail Station

Average Duration

2h 40m

Estimated price

$16-23

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

Traveling between Leicester and Bournemouth 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 scenic journey from Leicester to Bournemouth, covering a distance of 170 miles through the English countryside. ⏱️ Enjoy a leisurely drive that takes approximately 2 hours and 51 minutes, offering the perfect opportunity to explore charming towns and villages along the way. 💰 Prices for this road trip range from £43 to £63, providing an affordable and convenient way to reach the beautiful coastal town of Bournemouth from Leicester.

Average price

£43 - £62

🌆 The journey from Leicester to Bournemouth by train takes approximately 3 hours and 39 minutes, including the necessary transfers along the way. 💷 Ticket prices for the train between Leicester and Bournemouth range from £81 to £161, offering travelers a convenient and relatively quick way to reach their destination.

Departure Point

Leicester station

Arrival Point

Bournemouth station

Useful tips for train travellers

• On the East Midlands Railway and South Western Railway services, you can expect onboard catering options. East Midlands Railway offers a range of snacks and beverages available for purchase, while South Western Railway generally has a catering trolley service with light refreshments. Be sure to check their menu on board for the latest offerings.

• For seating options, East Midlands Railway provides both Standard and First Class seating on their services. First Class offers more spacious seating with at-seat service for refreshments. South Western Railway, on the other hand, typically features Standard Class and Standard Premier, where Standard Premier offers more legroom and complimentary snacks. Choose First Class on East Midlands Railway for a quieter atmosphere, or Standard Premier on South Western Railway for more comfort.

• There are multiple operators for your trip from Leicester to Bournemouth. You can travel with East Midlands Railway (eastmidlandsrailway.co.uk) or South Western Railway (southwesternrailway.com). Visit their websites for schedules and ticket bookings, and consider checking National Rail Enquiries (nationalrail.co.uk) for comprehensive travel information.

🚌 Route Information: Traveling from Leicester to Bournemouth by bus takes approximately 5 hours and 40 minutes covering a distance of 333 km with a transfer. The journey involves taking a National Express 440-16 from Leicester to London Victoria, followed by a National Express 035-NO from London Victoria to Poole.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Leicester to Bournemouth.

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The distance between Leicester and Bournemouth is approximately 137 miles, with a road distance of 169.6 miles. The typical travel time by train from Leicester to Bournemouth is around 3 hours and 45 minutes. Alternatively, taking a combination of bus and train can take around 6 hours and 2 minutes. If you prefer to drive, the journey from Bournemouth to Leicester can take approximately 2 hours and 51 minutes by car, while taking a bus can take around 5 hours and 55 minutes.

The most cost-effective option for traveling from Leicester to Bournemouth is by bus, which typically costs between £35-£59 and takes approximately 5 hours and 55 minutes. If time-efficiency is a priority, then driving is the quickest option, taking around 2 hours and 51 minutes and costing roughly £43-£63. However, it is important to consider factors such as traffic conditions and personal preferences when choosing the most suitable mode of transportation.

The prices for traveling between Leicester and Bournemouth vary depending on the mode of transportation. By train, the prices range from £86 to £230. Alternatively, taking a bus from Bournemouth to Leicester can cost between £38 and £55. These prices may fluctuate depending on factors like demand, season, and ticket class. It is recommended to check with the specific travel providers for the most up-to-date and accurate pricing information.

To travel from Leicester to Bournemouth without using public transportation, you can drive. The distance is approximately 170 miles, and it takes around 2 hours and 51 minutes by car. The estimated cost of fuel for the journey is between £43 - £63, depending on the current fuel prices. Driving allows you the flexibility to explore the scenic route and make stops along the way.

The most convenient way to travel from Leicester to Bournemouth without a car is by train via London. It takes approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes to complete the journey, with tickets costing between £86 and £234. The train journey involves catching a train from Leicester to London, and then transferring to another train to reach Bournemouth. This option allows for a stress-free and comfortable travel experience.

No, there is no direct link between Leicester and Bournemouth either by train or by bus. However, it is possible to travel between the two cities with transfers. The train journey takes approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes, with transfers at Euston station and London Waterloo. The bus journey, including transfers at Heathrow Terminal 5, takes approximately 5 hours and 55 minutes.

There are plenty of options for accommodation near Bournemouth. With over 1810 hotels to choose from, there is something to suit every budget and preference. Prices for hotels in Bournemouth start at £56 per night, giving travelers a range of choices for their stay. Whether you are looking for a luxury hotel on the beach or a budget-friendly option in the city center, there are plenty of lodging options available to cater to your needs.