- Must visit
Colchester Castle Museum
Major museum inside the Norman castle, presenting Roman finds and town history. Essential for understanding Colchester from Iron Age to modern times.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Chelmsford to Colchester
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 25
Cheapest price on Oct 25
$8
Average ticket price on Oct 25
$8
Fastest journey on Oct 25
55 m
Average journey duration on Oct 25
55 m
Buses on Oct 25
1
Distance
34 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Chelmsford to Colchester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Chelmsford to Colchester will cost around $8 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $8.
Fast buses
On Sun, Oct 25, we found 1 buses from Chelmsford to Colchester, including 1 direct services.
On Sun, Oct 25 the direct buses cover the 34 km distance in an average of 55 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 55 m .
On Sun, Oct 25 the slowest buses will take 55 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
FlixBus9:20 PM0h55Chelmsford, Station (Stand VA)10:15 PMColchester, Stanwell Street (Bus station)$81One-way0 transfers
- FlixBus9:20 PM0h55Chelmsford, Station (Stand VA)10:15 PMColchester, Stanwell Street (Bus station)$81One-way0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Chelmsford to Colchester
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Chelmsford to Colchester run on average 1 times per day, taking around 55m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $6 if you book in advance.
There are 1 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 03:42, the last at 23:57. The fastest bus covers the 21 miles (34 km) distance in 55m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Distance 21 miles (34 km) |
Average bus duration 55m |
Cheapest ticket price $6 |
Buses per day 1 |
Direct buses 1 |
Fastest bus 55m |
First bus 3:42 AM |
Last bus 11:57 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 35 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Frequently asked questions about your Chelmsford to Colchester trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Chelmsford to Colchester.
Cheap bus tickets from Chelmsford to Colchester can start from as little as $6 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Chelmsford to Colchester is $7 ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The earliest bus from Chelmsford to Colchester leaves at 3:42 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Chelmsford to Colchester leaves at 11:57 PM.
Yes, there are 1 direct buses a day from Chelmsford to Colchester with FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
Chelmsford to Colchester Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 05:56AM | Arrival Time 07:13AM | Duration 1h17 | Departure days Mon, Tue | Cheapest price $0 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 06:21AM | Arrival Time 07:46AM | Duration 1h25 | Departure days Mon, Tue | Cheapest price $0 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 06:53AM | Arrival Time 08:23AM | Duration 1h30 | Departure days Mon, Tue | Cheapest price $0 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 07:01AM | Arrival Time 08:27AM | Duration 1h26 | Departure days Mon, Tue | Cheapest price $0 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 07:21AM | Arrival Time 09:01AM | Duration 1h40 | Departure days Mon, Tue | Cheapest price $0 |
Operator Stephensons of Essex | Departure Time 07:27AM | Arrival Time 08:18AM | Duration 0h51 | Departure days Mon, Tue | Cheapest price $6 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 07:31AM | Arrival Time 08:59AM | Duration 1h28 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $0 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 08:01AM | Arrival Time 09:36AM | Duration 1h35 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $0 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 08:36AM | Arrival Time 10:11AM | Duration 1h35 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $0 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 09:01AM | Arrival Time 10:16AM | Duration 1h15 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $0 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 09:22AM | Arrival Time 10:52AM | Duration 1h30 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $0 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 09:52AM | Arrival Time 11:23AM | Duration 1h31 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $0 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 10:22AM | Arrival Time 11:52AM | Duration 1h30 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $0 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 10:52AM | Arrival Time 12:23PM | Duration 1h31 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $0 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 11:22AM | Arrival Time 12:52PM | Duration 1h30 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $0 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 11:52AM | Arrival Time 01:24PM | Duration 1h32 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $0 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 12:22PM | Arrival Time 01:52PM | Duration 1h30 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $0 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 12:52PM | Arrival Time 02:24PM | Duration 1h32 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $0 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 01:22PM | Arrival Time 02:52PM | Duration 1h30 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $0 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 01:52PM | Arrival Time 03:24PM | Duration 1h32 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $0 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 02:17PM | Arrival Time 03:48PM | Duration 1h31 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $0 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 02:46PM | Arrival Time 04:20PM | Duration 1h34 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $0 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 03:27PM | Arrival Time 04:58PM | Duration 1h31 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $0 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 03:55PM | Arrival Time 05:36PM | Duration 1h41 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $0 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 04:02PM | Arrival Time 05:38PM | Duration 1h36 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $0 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 04:17PM | Arrival Time 05:58PM | Duration 1h41 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $0 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 04:46PM | Arrival Time 06:22PM | Duration 1h36 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $0 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 05:51PM | Arrival Time 07:13PM | Duration 1h22 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $0 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 06:21PM | Arrival Time 07:41PM | Duration 1h20 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $0 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 06:47PM | Arrival Time 08:02PM | Duration 1h15 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $0 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 07:31PM | Arrival Time 08:45PM | Duration 1h14 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $0 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 08:46PM | Arrival Time 10:00PM | Duration 1h14 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $0 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:20PM | Arrival Time 10:15PM | Duration 0h55 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $8 |
Why should you book Chelmsford to Colchester buses with Omio?
FlixBus operates all buses services from Chelmsford to Colchester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Chelmsford to Colchester.
Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare FlixBus with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Chelmsford to Colchester.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Chelmsford to Colchester.
Bus providers: FlixBus from Chelmsford to ColchesterYou can travel by bus between Chelmsford to Colchester with FlixBus for as low as $6. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
FlixBus
About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average FlixBus Duration
55m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$6
FlixBus frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Chelmsford and Colchester
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
When taking a bus from Chelmsford to Colchester, you can count on FlixBus for the best way to get you to Colchester. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Chelmsford and Colchester and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Chelmsford to Colchester:
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Chelmsford to Colchester for bus company FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Chelmsford to Colchester depends on the bus companies:
- FlixBus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company {providersWithBike}.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Chelmsford to Colchester.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Chelmsford to Colchester:
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Chelmsford to Colchester:
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Chelmsford to Colchester. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Chelmsford to Colchester with the following bus company: FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Chelmsford to Colchester with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Chelmsford to Colchester with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Complete guide to Colchester
Things to do in Colchester
Discover the best of Colchester — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Colchester trip today.
- Recommended
The Military Museum
Award-winning museum on former barracks, covering military life and the Essex Regiment. Strong collections make it a standout for social and army history.
- Recommended
Colchester Natural History Museum
Natural history museum in a former church, with local wildlife, geology, and family displays. A useful stop for learning about Essex's environment.
- Must visit
Castle Park
Historic park around the castle with formal planting, Roman walls, and central lawns. A classic place to relax while exploring the old town.
- Recommended
Dutch Quarter
Charming conservation area of timber-framed buildings and narrow streets, reflecting the town's links with Dutch and Flemish settlers.
- Recommended
High Street
Main shopping and historic street lined with heritage buildings, independent businesses, and civic landmarks. A practical and atmospheric town-centre walk.
- Gluten-free
Colchester Native Oysters
Colchester Native Oysters are famed shellfish from local estuaries, eaten raw or dressed. They are one of Britain’s oldest recorded regional delicacies.
Essex Eel Pie
Essex Eel Pie is a traditional regional pie of chopped eel in rich gravy. It reflects the historic importance of estuary fishing in Essex.
- Vegetarian
Tiptree Jam Tart
Tiptree Jam Tart uses the county’s famous Wilkin & Sons preserves in a simple buttery tart. It is a classic Essex tea-room style dessert.
Kintsu
Well-regarded modern British restaurant serving seasonal tasting-style plates in an intimate, refined atmosphere.
Church Street Tavern
Established seafood restaurant known for oysters, fish and polished service in a smart but relaxed setting near the town centre.
The Cafe at The Minories
Popular casual venue for brunch, coffee and comfort food with a stylish interior and a strong local following.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK: hotels and dining cost less than London, while local buses and casual meals stay fairly manageable for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.50-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Restaurants may add service; if not, tip 10-12% for good service. Taxi fares are often rounded up. Tipping in cafes is optional.
First Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £4.50
To the city center
Colchester East Hill / High Street, Colchester -> Colchester Town Centre, Colchester
- Distance
- 0.3 km
- Travel time
- 4 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on First Bus services in Colchester. You can also use the First Bus app for tickets and live times.
- Colchester town centre is walkable, so buses are most useful for longer trips such as Colchester Station or outlying areas.
Plan your visit to Colchester
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Colchester.
The currency used in the United Kingdom is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). For travelers, using a card is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially in cities and for transportation tickets, though carrying some cash can be useful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Colchester, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in busy areas like the town center and near popular attractions. Common scams include overcharging by taxis that are not licensed and fraudulent street vendors. It's advisable to use official transportation services and remain vigilant in crowded places to avoid these issues.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
FAQs: Bus from Chelmsford to Colchester
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chelmsford to Colchester by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Colchester, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Chelmsford and Colchester including taking a train and bus.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Chelmsford to Colchester
Most Chelmsford to Colchester buses use the Chelmsford, Station (Stand VA) to Colchester, Stanwell Street (Bus station) station pair. Use this guide to compare Chelmsford and Colchester bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Chelmsford
Arrival bus stations in Colchester
Which Chelmsford station do buses to Colchester leave from?
Buses from Chelmsford to Colchester leave from Chelmsford, Station (Stand VA). The station is from Chelmsford city centre at Chelmsford Station (Stand VA), Chelmsford CM1 1NY, UK.
Chelmsford, Station (Stand VA)Chelmsford Station (Stand VA), Chelmsford CM1 1NY, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Chelmsford, Station (Stand VA) from Chelmsford city centre
TRUE
Chelmsford, Station (Stand VA) bus station facilities and services
Chelmsford, Station (Stand VA) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Chelmsford, Station (Stand VA). ATMs are available at Chelmsford, Station (Stand VA).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Chelmsford, Station (Stand VA).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Chelmsford, Station (Stand VA): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Chelmsford, Station (Stand VA): Station is accessible for those with reduced mobility.
Which Colchester station do buses from Chelmsford arrive at?
Buses from Chelmsford to Colchester arrive at Colchester, Stanwell Street (Bus station). Colchester, Stanwell Street (Bus station) is from Colchester city centre.
Colchester, Stanwell Street (Bus station)Colchester Bus Station, Colchester CO2 7DP, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Colchester, Stanwell Street (Bus station) from Colchester city centre
Bus74B, 107, 105, 43 · 3m · $4 · every ~5 min
Colchester, Stanwell Street (Bus station) bus station facilities and services
Colchester, Stanwell Street (Bus station) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Colchester, Stanwell Street (Bus station). ATMs are available at Colchester, Stanwell Street (Bus station).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Colchester, Stanwell Street (Bus station).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Colchester, Stanwell Street (Bus station): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Colchester, Stanwell Street (Bus station): Wheelchair accessible with ramps.
Bus stations for Chelmsford to Colchester
Check bus stations information for Chelmsford and Colchester, including where buses depart and arrive on this route.
Passengers board the bus most frequently from Chelmsford, Station (Stand VA), which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Colchester, Stanwell Street (Bus station), located 0 away from the city centre.
More options for your journey from Chelmsford to Colchester
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Colchester and Chelmsford
Most popular bus connections to Colchester
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