Nearest Airports to Leicester: Closest Airports & How to reach
If you are planning to visit Leicester, one of the first things you should know is which airport is closest and most convenient. Leicester does not have its own international airport, but several major airports are located nearby and offer easy travel options by train, taxi, and bus.
This guide covers the nearest airports to Leicester, distance, travel time, transport options, and which airport is best for international students, tourists, and business travellers.
Why Knowing the Nearest Airport to Leicester Matters
Choosing the right airport can make your entire journey to Leicester easier, faster, and more affordable. Since Leicester does not have its own international airport, travelers usually arrive through nearby airports like East Midlands Airport, Birmingham Airport, or Heathrow Airport.
Selecting the best airport helps you:
- Save valuable travel time
- Reduce taxi, train, and transfer expenses
- Find cheaper domestic and international flights
- Get better airline and route options
- Avoid long layovers and complicated connections
- Travel more comfortably with less stress
For example, a cheaper flight to London may look attractive at first, but after adding train tickets, taxi fares, and extra travel hours, it can become more expensive than flying to a closer airport.
Also read: 10 Best Things to Do in Leicester in Summer Holidays: 2026 Updated
Which is the Closest Airport to Leicester?
The nearest airport to Leicester is:
1. East Midlands Airport
Located around 20 miles (32 km) from Leicester, East Midlands Airport is the closest and one of the most convenient airports for travellers visiting the city.
| Details | Information |
| Distance from Leicester | Around 20 miles (32 km) |
| Average Travel Time | 35–45 minutes |
| Best For | Domestic flights & European travel |
| Airport Type | International Airport |
East Midlands Airport is a popular choice for tourists, students, and business travellers because of its short distance from Leicester and smooth transport connectivity. The airport offers regular flights across the UK and several European destinations, making it ideal for short-haul travel.
Unlike larger London airports, East Midlands Airport is usually less crowded, which means:
- Faster check-ins
- Shorter security lines
- Easier navigation inside the airport
- Less travel stress for first-time visitors
Several low-cost airlines operate from the airport, making it a popular choice for travellers looking for affordable flights across Europe and the UK. Its close location also makes Leicester to East Midlands airport taxi services a convenient and reliable option for airport transfers.
Advantages of East Midlands Airport
Closest Airport to Leicester: The biggest advantage is its location. You can reach Leicester in under an hour through taxi, bus, or private car.
Less Crowded Than London Airports: Compared to busy airports like Heathrow Airport or London Luton Airport, East Midlands Airport is usually easier and faster to navigate.
Easy Transport Connectivity: Travellers can easily find:
- Taxis
- Coaches
- Bus services
- Rental cars
for direct travel to Leicester.
Budget-Friendly Flight Options: Several low-cost airlines operate from the airport, making it a good choice for travellers seeking affordable flights across Europe and the UK.
Disadvantages of East Midlands Airport
- Limited Long-Haul International Flights: The airport primarily serves domestic and European routes, so travellers from outside Europe may need connecting flights.
- Fewer Airline Choices: Compared to major airports like Birmingham Airport or Heathrow, the number of airlines and international destinations is more limited.
Is East Midlands Airport the Best Choice for Leicester?
If your priority is:
- Quick travel to Leicester
- Less airport crowd
- Lower transport costs
- Easy domestic or European travel
Then East Midlands Airport is one of the best airport options available. However, for long-haul international flights, travellers may prefer larger airports like Birmingham or Heathrow for better global connectivity.
Also read: 10 Best Things to Do Near Leicester Airport (Places to Visit)
Other Major Airports Near Leicester
In addition to East Midlands Airport, several other major airports offer excellent connectivity to Leicester. These airports are ideal for international travellers, students, business professionals, and tourists looking for better airline options and global flight connectivity.
1. Birmingham Airport
Birmingham Airport is one of the best airport options for travelers visiting Leicester, especially for international journeys. It offers a perfect balance between distance, convenience, and global connectivity.
| Details | Information |
| Distance from Leicester | Around 40 miles (64 km) |
| Average Travel Time | 50–70 minutes |
| Best For | International flights & business travel |
| Airport Type | Major International Airport |
The airport is well connected to Leicester via direct train services, taxis, and motorways, making travel smooth and convenient. You can book a taxi from Leicester to Birmingham Airport for convenient service.
Why Choose Birmingham Airport?
Large Number of International Flights: Birmingham Airport offers flights to several international destinations across:
- Europe
- Asia
- Middle East
- North America
Direct Train Connectivity: One of the biggest advantages is its excellent railway connection. Travellers can easily reach Leicester by train from Birmingham International Railway Station.
More Airline Options: Compared to smaller airports, Birmingham Airport provides access to:
- More airlines
- Better flight timings
- Flexible ticket options
Ideal for International Students: Students travelling from countries like:
- India
- UAE
- Canada
- European nations
often prefer Birmingham Airport because of its convenience and strong international network.
Best For
- International students
- Business travelers
- Long-haul international flights
- Travelers carrying extra luggage
Advantages of Birmingham Airport
Excellent International Flight Connectivity: Birmingham Airport offers direct flights to many international destinations, making global travel convenient for passengers.
Fast and Easy Travel to Leicester: The airport has quick and convenient train connectivity to Leicester, helping travelers reach the city easily.
More Airline and Flight Options: Compared to smaller regional airports, Birmingham Airport provides a wider range of airlines and flight schedules.
Less Crowded Than London Airports: Traveling through Birmingham Airport is often more comfortable and less stressful than busy London airports.
Good Airport Facilities: Passengers can enjoy useful facilities like shopping areas, food courts, lounges, parking, and transport services.
Disadvantages of Birmingham Airport
Slightly Farther from Leicester: Birmingham Airport is located a little farther from Leicester compared to East Midlands Airport.
Higher Taxi Costs During Peak Hours: Taxi and private transfer charges can become expensive during busy travel times.
Busy During Holiday Seasons: The airport can become crowded during holidays and weekends, which may increase waiting times.
Train Tickets Can Be Expensive: Last-minute train bookings from Birmingham to Leicester may cost more for travellers.
2. London Luton Airport
London Luton Airport is a popular airport for budget travellers and tourists looking for low-cost flights across Europe.
| Details | Information |
| Distance from Leicester | Around 70 miles (113 km) |
| Average Travel Time | 1.5–2 hours |
| Best For | Budget European travel |
| Airport Type | International Airport |
The airport is widely used by low-cost airlines and is often chosen by students and travellers looking to save money on airfare. You can book a taxi from Leicester to Luton Airport from GI Express Taxi at an affordable price.
Why Travellers Choose Luton Airport
Affordable Flight Options: Luton Airport is known for offering:
- Cheap flight deals
- Budget-friendly routes
- Seasonal travel discounts
Many Budget Airlines: Popular low-cost airlines operate regularly from Luton, including:
- EasyJet
- Ryanair
- Wizz Air
Good for Short European Trips: The airport is ideal for
- Weekend holidays
- Student travel
- Short business trips
Advantages of London Luton Airport
- Affordable Airfare Prices: London Luton Airport is popular among budget travelers because it often offers cheaper flight tickets.
- Home to Many Low-Cost Airlines: The airport is served by several budget airlines, making domestic and international travel more affordable.
- Strong European Connectivity: Luton Airport has good flight connections to major European cities and popular holiday destinations.
- Good for Budget International Travel: It is a suitable option for travelers looking for low-cost international and domestic flights.
- Frequent Flight Availability: Due to high airline activity, passengers can find flights at different times throughout the day.
Disadvantages of London Luton Airport
- Longer Travel Time to Leicester: Reaching Leicester from Luton Airport usually takes more time compared to East Midlands Airport or Birmingham Airport.
- Crowded During Peak Seasons: The airport can become very busy during weekends, holidays, and travel seasons.
- Longer Waiting Times: Security checks and baggage collection may take longer due to heavy passenger traffic.
- Extra Transportation Costs: Travellers may need to spend extra on trains, buses, or airport transfers to reach Leicester.
Also read: How Busy Is Manchester Airport? (2026 Guide)
3. Manchester Airport
Manchester Airport is one of the largest airports in the UK and provides excellent worldwide connectivity.
| Details | Information |
| Distance from Leicester | Around 85 miles (137 km) |
| Average Travel Time | Around 2 hours |
| Best For | Long-haul international travel |
| Airport Type | Major International Airport |
The airport is especially popular among international students and long-distance travellers arriving from Asia, North America, and the Middle East. For convenient onward travel, booking a Leicester to Manchester Airport taxi can be one of the best options.
Why Travellers Choose Manchester Airport
Excellent International Routes: Manchester Airport offers direct flights to many countries worldwide.
Direct Long-Haul Flights: Travellers can find direct routes to destinations across:
- Asia
- USA
- Canada
- Europe
- Middle East
Strong Rail Connectivity: The airport has a well-developed rail network, making train travel to Leicester convenient and comfortable.
Best For
- International travelers
- Students arriving from Asia or North America
- Long-distance flights
- Travellers need better global connectivity
Advantages of Manchester Airport
- Extensive International Flight Network: Manchester Airport offers flights to many international destinations around the world, making global travel convenient.
- Excellent Public Transport Connectivity: The airport has strong transport connections, including direct train and coach services to different cities.
- Wide Range of Airlines and Flights: Travellers can choose from many airlines, flight timings, and route options for domestic and international travel.
- Better Long-Haul Flight Availability: Compared to smaller regional airports, Manchester Airport offers more long-distance international flight options.
- Modern Airport Facilities: Passengers can enjoy facilities like lounges, restaurants, shopping areas, parking, and traveler support services.
Disadvantages of Manchester Airport
- Further from Leicester: Manchester Airport is farther from Leicester, so the journey usually takes longer.
- Higher Travel Costs: Train tickets, taxis, and airport transfers can be more expensive compared to travelling from Birmingham Airport.
- Less Convenient for Some Travellers: The longer journey may feel tiring for families, elderly passengers, or travellers carrying heavy luggage.
- Traffic and Train Delays: Busy roads and peak-hour train schedules can sometimes increase overall travel time.
4. Heathrow Airport
Heathrow Airport is the busiest and one of the most important international airports in the UK. It connects travellers to almost every major country in the world.
| Details | Information |
| Distance from Leicester | Around 100 miles (160 km) |
| Average Travel Time | 2–3 hours |
| Best For | Global international travel |
| Airport Type | Largest International Airport in the UK |
For travellers seeking maximum airline options and direct international routes, Heathrow is often the top choice. If you are travelling from Leicester, booking a taxi from Leicester to Heathrow Airport can also be a convenient option for comfortable long-distance airport transfers.
Why Travellers Choose Heathrow Airport
Massive International Connectivity: Heathrow offers flights to hundreds of global destinations across:
- Asia
- Europe
- Africa
- North America
- Australia
Premium Airline Availability: Many world-famous airlines operate from Heathrow, including:
- British Airways
- Emirates
- Qatar Airways
- Air India
- Virgin Atlantic
Better Long-Haul Flight Availability: Travellers often get:
- More direct flights
- Better timing options
- Premium travel services
Advantages of Heathrow Airport
- Huge International Flight Network: Heathrow Airport offers flights to major countries and cities around the world, making international travel easier.
- Wide Airline Choices: Travellers can choose from many airlines and flexible flight timings for both domestic and international journeys.
- Best for Long-Haul Travel: It is one of the best airports for long-distance and international flights with many direct connections.
- Excellent Airport Facilities: The airport provides modern facilities like lounges, restaurants, shopping areas, hotels, and transport services.
- Strong Transport Connectivity: Heathrow has good train, bus, and taxi connectivity, making travel to different cities convenient.
Disadvantages of Heathrow Airport
- Far from Leicester: The airport is quite far from Leicester, so the journey takes longer than to nearby airports.
- Expensive Transportation: Taxi fares, train tickets, and airport transfers from Heathrow can be costly.
- Heavy London Traffic: Traffic in London can increase travel time, especially during busy hours and weekends.
- Busy Airport Experience: Since Heathrow is one of the busiest airports in the world, security checks and baggage collection may take longer.
Which Airport Should You Choose Near Leicester?
| Airport | Best For |
| East Midlands Airport | Closest and fastest access |
| Birmingham Airport | Best overall international option |
| Luton Airport | Cheapest budget flights |
| Manchester Airport | Long-haul international routes |
| Heathrow Airport | Maximum global connectivity |
Choosing the right airport depends on:
- Your budget
- Flight availability
- Travel comfort
- Destination country
- Transfer convenience
For most international travellers visiting Leicester, Birmingham Airport offers the best combination of convenience, connectivity, and travel time.
Also read: 27 Best Places to Visit in Leicester: Top Tourist Places
Best Airport for International Students Going to Leicester
If you are an international student planning to study in Leicester, these airports are usually the best options:
| Airport | Best For |
| East Midlands Airport | Closest and easiest travel |
| Birmingham Airport | International flights |
| Heathrow Airport | Maximum airline choices |
| Manchester Airport | Long-haul international routes |
Many students prefer Birmingham Airport because it balances distance and international connectivity.
How to Travel from the Airport to Leicester?
1. Train
Leicester has excellent train connectivity from major UK airports.
Popular Train Routes
- Birmingham Airport → Leicester
- London St Pancras → Leicester
- Manchester Airport → Leicester
Train travel is fast and comfortable for students and tourists.
2. By Taxi
Taxis are the easiest but most expensive option.
Estimated Taxi Costs
| Airport | Approx Taxi Cost |
| East Midlands Airport | £40–£60 |
| Birmingham Airport | £70–£100 |
| Heathrow Airport | £150+ |
3. By Bus or Coach
Budget travellers often prefer buses.
Popular services include:
- National Express
- Megabus
These are affordable but slower compared to trains.
Which Airport is the cheapest for Leicester?
Budget airlines usually operate from:
- East Midlands Airport
- London Luton Airport
If your priority is cheap airfare, these airports are worth checking first.
Best Airport Based on Your Travel Type
| Travel Type | Recommended Airport |
| Closest Airport | East Midlands Airport |
| International Flights | Birmingham Airport |
| Cheapest Flights | Luton Airport |
| Global Connectivity | Heathrow Airport |
| Long-Haul Flights | Manchester Airport |
Tips Before Booking Flights to Leicester
Before booking your flight to Leicester, it is important to plan carefully. Choosing the right airport and transportation option can help you save money, reduce travel stress, and make your journey more comfortable.
Here are some important tips every traveller should follow before booking flights to Leicester.
1. Compare the Total Travel Cost
Do not focus only on flight prices while booking tickets to Leicester. Sometimes cheaper flights become expensive after adding train, taxi, baggage, and airport transfer costs. Always compare the total travel expense before booking.
2. Check Train Connectivity
Good train connectivity can make your journey faster and easier. Airports like Birmingham Airport and Manchester Airport offer smooth rail access to Leicester, which is helpful for students and tourists.
3. Book Airport Transfers Early
Pre-booking taxis or coaches can help you save money and avoid last-minute travel stress. It is especially useful for late-night arrivals, families, and travellers carrying heavy luggage.
4. Avoid Peak Travel Times
Flight and transportation prices usually increase during weekends, holidays, and vacation seasons. Travelling during weekdays or off-peak months can help you get cheaper tickets and less crowded airports.
5. Check Airline Baggage Policies
Many budget airlines charge extra for baggage and seat selection. Always check the baggage policy before booking, especially if you are traveling internationally or carrying extra luggage.
Choose the Right Nearest Airport Based on Your Needs
Different airports offer different benefits. East Midlands Airport is best for shorter travel time, while Birmingham Airport is better for international connectivity.
Keep Important Travel Documents Ready
Carry all important documents like your passport, visa, tickets, and accommodation details in an easily accessible place. Students should also keep university admission and accommodation documents ready.
Final Tip Before Booking Flights
Do not choose flights based only on ticket prices. Consider travel time, airport connectivity, transportation costs, and comfort to make your journey to Leicester smoother and more affordable.
FAQs About Airports Near Leicester
1. What is the nearest airport to Leicester?
The nearest airport to Leicester is East Midlands Airport, which is located around 20 miles away. It is the most convenient option for quick travel to the city.
2. Which airport is best for international flights to Leicester?
For international and long-haul flights, Birmingham Airport and Heathrow Airport are considered the best options because they offer excellent global flight connectivity.
3. Can I travel to Leicester by train from nearby airports?
Yes, Leicester has good train connectivity to major airports such as Birmingham Airport, Heathrow Airport, and Manchester Airport. Train travel is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to reach Leicester.
4. Which airport near Leicester offers cheaper flights?
Budget travellers often find affordable flight options at East Midlands Airport and London Luton Airport, especially for domestic and European routes.
5. How far is Heathrow Airport from Leicester?
Heathrow Airport is located around 100 miles from Leicester, and the journey usually takes around 2 to 3 hours, depending on traffic and transport choice.
Final Thoughts
Leicester is well connected to several major UK airports, making travel convenient for tourists, students, and professionals. If you want the nearest option, choose East Midlands Airport. For international travel, Birmingham Airport is often the best balance between connectivity and distance.
