Quick Answer
The best overall way to get from East Midlands Airport (EMA) to Leicester Station is the combined Skylink bus and train route. Take the Skylink Express bus from outside the terminal to East Midlands Parkway station (15-20 mins), then a frequent train to Leicester (15-20 mins). Total journey time is 60-90 minutes, costing £10-£20. For the cheapest direct option, take the Skylink Express bus all the way to Leicester city centre (45-60 mins, £6-£8).
Train from East Midlands Airport to Leicester (Via East Midlands Parkway)
While there's no direct train station at East Midlands Airport, the most seamless rail connection involves a short bus ride to a nearby mainline station. This option is ideal if you have a railcard, are connecting to a longer UK train journey, or prefer the speed and comfort of rail for the final leg.
Step-by-Step Guide: Bus + Train Combo
- Exit Arrivals: Follow signs for "Buses & Coaches" from the main terminal.
- Catch the Skylink Bus: Board the Skylink Express (Service SKYLINK) bound for Derby/Nottingham. Alight at "East Midlands Parkway Railway Station". Journey: 15-20 mins. Fare: ~£4-5 (can be included in a through train ticket).
- Transfer to Train: The bus stops directly outside the station entrance. Trains to Leicester are operated by East Midlands Railway (EMR).
- Train to Leicester: Services are frequent (2-3 per hour). Journey time: 15-20 minutes.
Ticketing & Cost Analysis
You have two main ticket options:
- Through Ticket (Recommended): Purchase a single ticket from "East Midlands Airport" to "Leicester" at a station or online. This covers both the bus and train legs. An Anytime Day Single costs approximately £15-£20. Advance tickets are not typically available for this specific routed journey.
- Separate Tickets: Buy a bus ticket from the driver (£4-5) and a separate train ticket at East Midlands Parkway (£6-10 for an Anytime Single). This is rarely cheaper than a through ticket.
| Ticket Type | Coverage | Approx. Cost (Adult) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Anytime Day Single (Through) | Bus (EMA to Parkway) + Train (Parkway to Leicester) | £15 - £20 | Most travellers, flexibility |
| Skylink Single + Off-Peak Train Single | Separate tickets | £10 - £16 | Travel outside peak hours, if you find a cheap advance train fare |
Railcard Tip: If you have a 16-25, Senior, or Two Together Railcard, you can save 1/3 on the train portion and sometimes the through ticket. Always present it when buying.
Direct Bus: Skylink Express from EMA to Leicester
The Skylink Express (Service SKYLINK), operated by Kinchbus, is the only direct public transport link between East Midlands Airport and Leicester city centre. It's the workhorse of this route, favoured for its simplicity, frequency, and value.
Service Details & Schedule
- Route: EMA â Loughborough â Leicester (St Margaret's Bus Station).
- Frequency: Up to 4 buses per hour during peak daytime. A 24/7 service operates, with hourly buses through the night.
- Journey Time: 45 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic and time of day.
- Departure Point: Clearly signed bus stops directly outside the airport terminal.
- Destination in Leicester: St Margaret's Bus Station. Leicester Railway Station is a 10-12 minute walk or a short taxi ride (£5-7) from the bus station.
Fares, Tickets & How to Pay
Fares are simple and competitive:
| Ticket | Price (Adult) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Single (EMA to Leicester) | £6.50 - £8.00 | Price may vary slightly; check with driver or app. |
| Skylink Duo (Return) | £10 - £12 | Excellent value return ticket, valid for any return within 3 months. |
| Contactless Payment | Capped at single fare | Acceptable on board (debit/credit/Apple Pay/Google Pay). |
Buying Tips: You can pay the driver in cash (ensure you have change) or by contactless card. For the best price and guarantee of a seat, consider purchasing a mobile ticket via the Kinchbus app.
Luggage & Accessibility
The Skylink buses are modern coaches with dedicated under-floor luggage compartments, suitable for large suitcases and airport luggage. All buses are wheelchair accessible.
Taxi & Private Transfers from EMA to Leicester
For door-to-door convenience, especially with heavy luggage, late-night arrivals, or small groups, a pre-booked taxi or private hire vehicle is a viable but premium option.
Cost Breakdown: What to Expect
Prices are not fixed by meter for this pre-booked journey. Always get a quote in advance.
| Vehicle Type | Estimated Fare (Pre-booked) | Journey Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Saloon (4 seats) | £40 - £55 | 35 - 50 mins | Couples, solo travellers with lots of luggage |
| Executive Car | £60 - £80 | 35 - 50 mins | Business travel |
| 6-8 Seater Minivan | £65 - £90 | 35 - 50 mins | Families or small groups |
| Airport Taxi Rank (Hackney) | £55+ (metered) | 35 - 50 mins | Emergency/immediate travel only (most expensive) |
Warning: The official taxi rank at the airport (hackney carriages) will be significantly more expensive than a pre-booked minicab. They charge a higher base rate and are metered.
Recommended Booking Strategy
- Book in Advance: Always pre-book online or by phone for a fixed price. This protects you from surge pricing and ensures availability. Reputable local firms often have flight tracking.
- Meet & Greet: Most companies offer a "meet and greet" service where the driver waits for you in the arrivals hall with a name sign.
- Reliable Operators: Consider companies like Airtaxis, Local Leicester firms (e.g., Arrow Cars, 1st Choice), or national apps like Uber (availability can be variable at EMA).
Cost & Time Comparison: Best Way from EMA to Leicester
This summary table helps you decide at a glance. All times are approximate and depend on traffic/connections.
| Transport Method | Avg. Total Journey Time | Avg. Cost (One Way, Adult) | Transfers / Complexity | Best Suited For | Our Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Skylink Direct Bus | 45 - 60 mins | £6.50 - £8.00 | None (Direct) | Budget travellers, solo backpackers, anyone avoiding transfers | ð¯ Best Value & Most Straightforward |
| Train (via Parkway) | 60 - 90 mins | £15 - £20 (through ticket) | 1 (Bus to Train) | Railcard holders, connecting to long-distance trains, those who prefer trains | ⡠Fastest Rail Option, Good Comfort |
| Pre-booked Private Taxi | 35 - 50 mins | £40 - £60+ | None (Door-to-Door) | Families, groups of 3+, late-night arrivals, those with mobility issues or excessive luggage | ð Maximum Convenience, High Cost |
| Airport Taxi (Rank) | 35 - 50 mins | £55 - £75+ | None (Door-to-Door) | Only if other options are unavailable or money is no object | ð¸ Least Recommended Due to Cost |
Key Takeaway: For most travellers, the Skylink Direct Bus offers the perfect balance of low cost, good frequency, and simplicity. Choose the train if you have a railcard or are continuing by rail. Opt for a pre-booked taxi only for specific needs justifying the high cost.
Traveler Tips & Essential Advice
Beyond schedules and fares, hereâs practical wisdom from frequent travellers on this route.
Luggage Strategy
- Bus vs. Train: The Skylink bus has easier luggage handling (coach compartments) than the train, where you must carry bags onto the train and find space.
- Walking to Leicester Station: If you take the bus to St Margaret's, it's a flat but slightly long walk (10-12 mins) to the train station with bags. A local taxi from the rank outside the bus station costs £5-7 and saves hassle.
Managing Connections & Time
- Buffer Time: If connecting to a crucial train from Leicester, allow at least 90-120 minutes from your flight's scheduled arrival time to your train's departure. This accounts for passport control, luggage wait, potential bus/taxi delays, and walking.
- Real-Time Tracking: Use the Kinchbus live tracker to see exactly where your Skylink bus is. For trains, use National Rail Enquiries or the EMR app.
Money-Saving & Booking Hacks
- Group Taxi: A taxi for 4 people (£50-60 split) can be cheaper per person than 4 separate bus/train tickets and is far more convenient.
- Return Journey Planning: If you know you'll be returning to EMA, buy a Skylink Duo return ticket immediately for the best savings.
- Check for Disruptions: Before you travel, check East Midlands Railway on Twitter for any line issues and Kinchbus updates for roadworks affecting the bus.
Accessibility & Special Assistance
All Skylink buses and East Midlands Railway trains are wheelchair accessible. If you require special assistance at East Midlands Parkway station, contact East Midlands Railway in advance. The airport itself offers comprehensive assistance â book this through your airline.
FAQs: East Midlands Airport to Leicester Station
Is there a direct train from East Midlands Airport to Leicester Station?
No, there is no direct train service. You must take a connecting bus (Skylink) to a rail station, most commonly East Midlands Parkway, and then board a train to Leicester.
What is the cheapest way to travel from EMA to Leicester?
The cheapest method is the direct Skylink Express bus, with a single adult ticket costing approximately £6.50 to £8.00.
How much is a taxi from East Midlands Airport to Leicester Station?
A pre-booked taxi typically costs between £40 and £60. Taxis from the official airport rank are metered and usually start at £55+.
Can I use contactless payment on the Skylink bus?
Yes, contactless debit/credit cards and mobile payments (Apple/Google Pay) are accepted on board. The fare is capped at the adult single rate.
Where do I catch the Skylink bus at East Midlands Airport?
The Skylink bus stop is directly outside the main terminal building, clearly signposted as "Buses & Coaches".
Is the train via East Midlands Parkway faster than the direct bus?
Not significantly. The total bus+train journey (60-90 mins) is often comparable to the direct bus (45-60 mins) when accounting for transfer waiting time. The bus is more reliably direct.
What should I do if my flight arrives late at night?
The Skylink bus operates 24/7 with an hourly night service. This is your best bet. Alternatively, pre-book a private taxi for guaranteed transport.
Are there any discounts for students or seniors on this route?
Yes. Concessionary fares are available on the Skylink bus for students and seniors. For the train leg, a valid Railcard (16-25, Senior, etc.) saves 1/3 on fares.