Leicester North

Leicester North is the southern terminus of the Great Central Railway and a remarkable example of how heritage and community spirit can bring history back to life. Located just outside Leicester city centre, Leicester North is a heritage style modern station built to replace the original Belgrave and Birstall station. This was sited 200 metres north and was closed in 1953. Due to vandalism it had to be demolished in 1977. Look at the road bridge carefully and you will see the original bricked up entrance.

The revived GCR extended south from Rothley during the 1980s and the new station was built in 1991 to provide a terminus inside the city boundary.

Leicester North Station officially opened in stages, with full station buildings completed by 2002 after an extensive fundraising effort. The project had begun in 1999, when The Countess of Lanesborough cut the first sod. For a variety of reasons, not least the discovery of a high-pressure water main under the site, the proposed terminus building was never started and the station consisted of just one platform. Further investment led to the installation of a large platform canopy in 2009, improving comfort and providing shelter for passengers.

Today, Leicester North is a thriving visitor gateway and a popular boarding point for heritage journeys to Rothley, Quorn, and Loughborough. The small but welcoming Waiting Room is open on most operating days and features a selection of historical railway posters and photographs. Artwork by local artists is also on display and available for purchase, with a portion of proceeds supporting the station.

The Tail Lamp Tea Room on Platform 2 is a much-loved part of the station, serving hot and cold refreshments, cakes, snacks and ice cream. On colder days, the warmth of the coal fire adds to the cosy, nostalgic atmosphere.