Trains from Leicester to Luton Airport

Leicester to Luton Airport Train Times and Prices

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Looking to travel from Leicester to Luton Airport? Take the stress out of airport transfers with a fast and frequent train from Leicester to Luton Airport, with journeys taking as little as 1 hour 9 minutes.

Train tickets for the Leicester to Luton Airport train start from just £17.60 one-way , and services operate regularly throughout the day. Book a combined ticket to Luton Airport to include both your train journey and the Luton DART shuttle to the terminal.

This guide covers everything you need to know for your trip from Leicester to London Luton Airport, including live train times, ticket options, and how to get the best fares.

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How to Get Cheap Train Tickets from Leicester to Luton Airport

Planning your journey from Leicester to Luton Airport? There are several easy ways to save money on your train tickets - without compromising on comfort or price.

  • Advance Booking: Secure the best fares by booking your Advance tickets early. Tickets are typically released up to 12 weeks before travel, and the earlier you book, the more likely you are to find the lowest prices. Use our online Journey Planner to compare fares across different times and dates.

  • Off-Peak and Super Off-Peak Travel: Travel during quieter times of the day with Off-Peak or Super Off-Peak tickets. These discounted fares are available right up until your travel day and offer great value for flexible travellers. Off-Peak times are ideal for mid-morning, mid-afternoon, and evening departures.

  • Anytime Tickets: If you need complete flexibility, Anytime tickets allow you to travel at any time of day, including peak hours. While these are usually more expensive, they offer convenience when plans are uncertain.

  • Family and Friends Railcard: Travelling as a group or with children? A Family and Friends Railcard offers up to 1/3 off adult fares and 60% off child fares for up to four adults and four children. It’s perfect for family holidays and can be reused throughout the year for other train trips.

Whether you're flying out on holiday or heading to Luton Airport for business, these tips will help you get the most value from your train from Leicester to Luton Airport.

Buying Your Ticket from Leicester to Luton Airport

Always select ‘Luton Airport’ (not just Parkway) when buying your ticket. This guarantees you a combined train and DART shuttle fare in one easy booking.

You can purchase your train to Luton Airport from Leicester:

  • Online: Up to 12 weeks in advance for the best value

  • At Leicester Station: Via ticket machines or counters

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Leicester to Luton Airport | What to Expect on Your Journey

Your train from Leicester to London Luton Airport offers comfort, speed, and reliability. All services arrive at Luton Airport Parkway, followed by the Luton DART link to the terminal.

Onboard Features:

  • Free WiFi: Stay connected throughout your journey with free 4G WiFi. Just select the EMR_WIFI network and follow the prompts to get online. Please note: streaming and large downloads may be restricted to ensure stable service for all passengers.

  • Luggage Allowance: Each passenger may bring up to three items - two larger suitcases and one small bag. Overhead racks are ideal for hand luggage, with dedicated areas for bulkier items. Please ensure you can carry your own bags.

  • Family-Friendly Facilities: Toilets onboard include baby changing facilities. Folded prams and pushchairs are welcome. We recommend bringing your own refreshments, as catering is not available on board.

  • Bike Access: Folding bikes can be carried at any time. Full-size bikes are allowed in vestibule areas during off-peak hours only. Restrictions apply during weekday peak times.

  • Accessibility: Our trains feature accessible toilets, step-free access, and priority seating and spaces for wheelchair users, making travel easier for passengers with reduced mobility.

Our Leicester to Luton Airport train services make travel simple, comfortable, and sustainable.

Timetable: Leicester to Luton Airport

Trains between Leicester and Luton Airport Parkway run multiple times per hour.

Weekday Schedule:

  • First train departs Leicester at around 04:41

  • Last train to Luton Airport Parkway departs around 22:10

Weekend Schedule:

  • Saturday: Trains start around 05:18

  • Saturday: Last departure 21:14

  • Sunday: First departure around 08:28

  • Sunday: Last departure 21:41

DART shuttles run 24 hours a day, making late-night or early-morning airport travel easy.

To view the full timetable, including any service changes or disruptions, head over to the Timetables page.

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Leicester to Luton Airport FAQs

  • Train tickets from Leicester to Luton Airport start from £17.60 one-way . Prices can vary depending on the time of travel, how early you book, and the type of ticket you choose. Booking in advance and travelling during Off-Peak or Super Off-Peak times will help you secure the best fares. Railcards can also save you up to 1/3 off standard ticket prices.

  • The fastest journey from Leicester to Luton Airport takes approximately 1hr 9 minutes , including the 4-minute ride on the Luton DART shuttle from Luton Airport Parkway station to the airport terminal. Some services may take slightly longer depending on stops and connections, so always check your specific departure time for the most accurate travel duration.

  • Yes, there are direct trains from Leicester to Luton Airport Parkway with no need to change along the route. Once you arrive at Luton Airport Parkway, the Luton DART shuttle will take you directly to the airport terminal in just 4 minutes. Booking your ticket to ‘Luton Airport’ ensures this connection is included.

  • There are up to three trains per hour from Leicester to Luton Airport Parkway during peak times, and at least one train per hour during off-peak periods. This high frequency offers great flexibility whether you're travelling for an early morning flight or a late return.

    • First train: Departs Leicester at approximately 04:41

    • Last train: Departs around 22:10
      (Weekdays)

    Please note that train times can vary depending on the day of the week and planned engineering works. The Luton DART shuttle operates 24/7, ensuring you can reach Luton Airport terminal no matter when your train arrives.

  • Trains from Leicester to Luton Airport Parkway are modern and well-equipped with:

    • Free onboard WiFi

    • Accessible toilets, including baby changing facilities

    • Plenty of luggage space for suitcases and hand luggage

    • Bike storage areas in vestibules

    • Priority seating and dedicated spaces for wheelchair users

  • Yes, you can bring both bikes and pets on board:

    • Folding bikes: Permitted at all times, must be fully folded and safely stowed.

    • Full-size bikes: Allowed during off-peak hours only and must be kept in designated areas in the vestibules.

    • Pets: You may bring up to two dogs (on leads) or small pets in enclosed carriers free of charge. All animals must be well-behaved, and staff may refuse travel if a pet appears disruptive or unsafe.

  • Train tickets from Leicester to Luton Airport typically go on sale up to 12 weeks in advance. Booking early gives you access to the lowest fares and the widest choice of departure times. Last-minute tickets are available but may be more expensive, especially during peak travel periods.

  • Once your train arrives at Luton Airport Parkway, simply follow the signs to the Luton DART shuttle, a modern automated transit system that runs every few minutes. The ride takes just four minutes and operates 24 hours a day, offering a smooth and convenient link between train and terminal. Booking to ‘Luton Airport’ includes this DART connection in your fare.

  • If your train is delayed by 15 minutes or more, you may be eligible for compensation through the Delay Repay scheme. If your train is cancelled, you’ll be offered alternative travel or a full refund.

    Refund policies vary depending on your ticket type:

    • Advance tickets: Non-refundable unless the train is cancelled.

    • Anytime, Off-Peak, or Super Off-Peak tickets: Refundable with a small admin fee if unused.

  • Yes, Leicester Station is fully accessible, with step-free access to all platforms, accessible toilets, ramps, lifts, and assistance services. You can request Passenger Assist up to 2 hours before departure to help with boarding, luggage, or navigating the station.

  • Absolutely. You can book assistance at the station and on the train between Leicester and London Luton Airport up to just two hours before you travel. Book assistance online or call our Passenger Assist team on 08000 11 33 23.

Reviews

  • The most pleasant experience. Trains on time, tickets checked, signage easy to find and follow. Great journey, most definitely will repeat.

    Natalie, April 2024

  • Train departed and arrived on time. Quickest and easiest way to get to Luton Airport from central London. Staff at St Pancras very professional.

    Mark, June 2024

  • First time using Luton airport and feared it would be a hassle to get to, but with the fast service from St. Pancras and the shuttle straight to the airport terminal it was just so easy.

    Sarah, July 2024

Station facilities

Make your journey easier by familiarising yourself with the facilities available at Leicester Station and Luton Airport Parkway. Whether you're setting off or arriving, both stations are equipped to support a comfortable travel experience.

Find useful information on car parking, taxi ranks, waiting areas, ticket machines, and more. You can also check real-time train updates and review accessibility features to plan with confidence.

Leicester station facilities
Luton Airport Parkway station facilities

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