- Must visit
Ipswich Museum
Ipswich’s main museum and gallery, covering local history, archaeology, art, and natural science in a major Victorian institution.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Chelmsford to Ipswich
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
$9
Average ticket price on Sep 20
$9
Fastest journey on Sep 20
1 h 45 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
1 h 45 m
Buses on Sep 20
1
Distance
59 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Chelmsford to Ipswich is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Chelmsford to Ipswich will cost around $9 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $9.
Fast buses
On Sun, Sep 20, we found 1 buses from Chelmsford to Ipswich, including 1 direct services.
On Sun, Sep 20 the direct buses cover the 59 km distance in an average of 1 h 45 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 1 h 45 m .
On Sun, Sep 20 the slowest buses will take 1 h 45 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 PM1h45Chelmsford, Station (Stand VA)11:05 PMIpswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema)$91One-way0 transfers
- FlixBus9:20 PM1h45Chelmsford, Station (Stand VA)11:05 PMIpswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema)$91One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Chelmsford to Ipswich
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chelmsford to Ipswich among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of $24 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 1h 14m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $24, while a train costs an average of $24.
Distance: 36 miles (59 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|
$24 Average price Cheapest | $16 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 14m Average total duration Fastest 44m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 54m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Chelmsford to Ipswich is a train with an average price of $24.
The fastest way to travel from Chelmsford to Ipswich is by train with an average journey time of 44m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Chelmsford and Ipswich including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chelmsford to Ipswich among Omio's users.
Chelmsford to Ipswich Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 07:54AM | Arrival Time 10:25AM | Duration 2h31 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $0.00 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 10:15AM | Arrival Time 12:50PM | Duration 2h35 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $0.00 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 12:45PM | Arrival Time 03:20PM | Duration 2h35 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $0.00 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 02:35PM | Arrival Time 05:20PM | Duration 2h45 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $0.00 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 05:12PM | Arrival Time 07:45PM | Duration 2h33 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $0.00 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 07:19PM | Arrival Time 10:25PM | Duration 3h06 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $0.00 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 08:37PM | Arrival Time 06:30AM | Duration 9h53 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $0.00 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:20PM | Arrival Time 11:05PM | Duration 1h45 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $7 |
Live departures
Chelmsford to Ipswich bus times
The table below shows live departures for Chelmsford to Ipswich buses for today, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus | 9:20 PM Chelmsford, Station (Stand VA) | 1h45 | 11:05 PM Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema) | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Chelmsford to Ipswich by train or bus
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Journey information
Overview: Bus from Chelmsford to Ipswich
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Take a bus from Chelmsford to Ipswich and enjoy the approximately 36 miles (59 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest bus runs at 03:50, the last at 23:42.
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $12
Distance 36 miles (59 km) |
First bus 3:50 AM |
Last bus 11:42 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 2 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $12
Complete guide to Ipswich
Things to do in Ipswich
Discover the best of Ipswich — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Ipswich trip today.
- Must visit
Christchurch Mansion
Elegant mansion museum in Christchurch Park with period rooms, Ipswich treasures, and changing displays in a beautiful historic setting.
- Recommended
Ipswich Art Gallery
Free contemporary gallery showing regional and national artists. A strong stop for visitors exploring Ipswich’s modern cultural scene.
- Must visit
Christchurch Park
Large historic park with lawns, wooded walks, tennis courts, and mansion views. It is Ipswich’s classic green escape near the centre.
- Must visit
Ipswich Waterfront
Regenerated marina district with quayside walks, public art, and lively views of boats and historic warehouses day or night.
- Recommended
Cornhill
Main civic square framed by Town Hall and historic buildings. A natural starting point for markets, events, and town-centre sightseeing.
- Gluten-free
Suffolk Ham
A traditional Suffolk cured ham, usually served thinly sliced. It is prized for its dry cure and long local heritage in East Anglian food culture.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Baron Bigod Or Suffolk Blue Cheese
A regional blue cheese made in Suffolk from cow's milk. Its creamy texture and rich, tangy taste make it a classic local cheese board choice.
- Gluten-free
Suffolk Coastal Fish
Fresh fish landed from the Suffolk coast, often cod, plaice, or sole. It reflects Ipswich's long trading links with nearby North Sea fishing ports.
The Unruly Pig
Well-known Ipswich pub and dining room serving classic British dishes, local ales, and seasonal produce in a smart yet relaxed setting.
Milsoms Kesgrave Hall
Refined restaurant in nearby Great Bealings with modern British tasting menus, strong Suffolk sourcing, and an elegant country-house setting.
Applaud Coffee
Popular independent venue in the town centre serving brunch, coffee, and modern British plates in a stylish casual space.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK: hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local buses and casual meals remain fairly affordable 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
- £3-4.50 for cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Taxis are often rounded up. Cafes usually do not require tips.
First Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £4.50
To the city center
Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema) -> Ipswich Town Centre, Ipswich
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Tap on and tap off with contactless on First Bus services to pay the correct fare automatically.
- Check tickets and live bus times in the First Bus app before travel, as fares and routes can vary by operator.
FAQs: Bus from Chelmsford to Ipswich
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chelmsford to Ipswich 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 Ipswich, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Chelmsford to Ipswich
Most Chelmsford to Ipswich buses use the Chelmsford, Station (Stand VA) to Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema) station pair. Use this guide to compare Chelmsford and Ipswich 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 Ipswich
Which Chelmsford station do buses to Ipswich leave from?
Buses from Chelmsford to Ipswich 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 Ipswich station do buses from Chelmsford arrive at?
Buses from Chelmsford to Ipswich arrive at Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema). Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema) is 0 miles (1 km) from Ipswich city centre.
Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema)Cardinal Park Cinema, Ipswich IP1 1AX, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema) from Ipswich city centre
TRUE
Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema) bus station facilities and services
Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurants available near Cardinal Park Cinema.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema). ATMs are available at Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema): Bus stop accessible for wheelchairs.
More options for your journey from Chelmsford to Ipswich
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Ipswich and Chelmsford
Most popular bus connections to Ipswich
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