- Must visit
The British Museum
World-famous museum with major collections spanning ancient Egypt, Greece, Rome, and Asia. A top choice for first-time visitors.
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Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Chelmsford to London
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chelmsford to London among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $19. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 45m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $19, and a train costs an average of $13.
Distance: 29 miles (48 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$19 Average price Cheapest | $22 Average price | $57 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 13m Average total duration 2h 43m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 15m Average total duration Fastest 45m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 16m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Chelmsford to London is a bus with an average price of $19 (€16).
This is compared to other travel options from Chelmsford to London:
A bus is $3 (€2) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Chelmsford to London costing on average $22 (€18).
The fastest way to travel from Chelmsford to London is by train with an average journey time of 45m.
Other travel options to London take longer:
Bus takes on average 2h 43m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Chelmsford and London including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chelmsford to London among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.
You'll arrive about {timeSavings} sooner ({durationInMinutes} by bus vs {drivingDurationInMinutes} by car) and save roughly {savingsAmount} compared to fuel and tolls ({cheapestPrice} vs {drivingPriceInCents}). You also skip the drive itself — no traffic stress, no parking, and you can use the time to work, nap, or catch up on a series with the onboard Wi-Fi.
Direct coaches are operated by {directProviders}.
Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.
Chelmsford to London Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greater Anglia | Departure Time 07:59PM | Arrival Time 11:47PM | Duration 3h48 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $19 |
Operator Greater Anglia | Departure Time 10:52PM | Arrival Time 12:29AM | Duration 1h37 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $19 |
Compare prices and tickets Chelmsford to London by train or bus
Compare train and bus prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Journey information
Overview: Bus from Chelmsford to London
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Chelmsford to London run on average 9 times per day, taking around 2h 43m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $19 (€15) but you can travel from only $13 (€10) by train.
The earliest bus runs at 00:02, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 29 miles (48 km) distance in 1h 37m.
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 $13 (€10)
Distance 29 miles (48 km) |
Average bus duration 2h 43m |
Cheapest ticket price $19 (€15) |
Buses per day 9 |
Fastest bus 1h 37m |
First bus 12:02 AM |
Last bus 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 4 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 $13 (€10)
Complete guide to London
Things to do in London
Discover the best of London — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect London trip today.
- Must visit
The National Gallery
Major art museum on Trafalgar Square with masterpieces by Van Gogh, Turner, Monet, and da Vinci. Essential for European painting.
- Must visit
Tate Modern
Leading modern and contemporary art gallery in a former power station on the Thames. Popular for its collection and river views.
- Must visit
Covent Garden
Lively district known for historic piazza spaces, street performers, boutique shopping, and easy access to theatres and museums.
- Must visit
South Bank
Riverside walking area with major views of the Thames, bridges, landmarks, and a busy cultural atmosphere.
- Must visit
Hyde Park
One of London's great royal parks, ideal for walking, boating, open green space, and access to Kensington Gardens.
Fish And Chips
Battered white fish with thick-cut chips, traditionally served with mushy peas and tartar sauce. It is one of London’s most iconic comfort foods.
Pie And Mash
A classic East London dish of meat pie with mashed potatoes and parsley liquor. It is a long-standing working-class staple tied closely to the city’s food history.
Sunday Roast
Roast meat served with roast potatoes, seasonal vegetables, gravy, and often Yorkshire pudding. A traditional pub and family meal strongly associated with London weekends.
The Ledbury
A renowned fine dining restaurant in Notting Hill known for refined modern European cooking and polished service.
Dishoom Covent Garden
A very popular all-day restaurant inspired by old Bombay cafes, loved for breakfast, curries, and lively atmosphere.
Rules
London’s oldest restaurant, famous for classic British dishes, game, pies, and traditional dining rooms with historic atmosphere.
Pound Sterling
London is expensive by UK standards. Hotels, transport, and dining add up quickly, though budget eats and free museums help control costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- GBP 8-15 for street food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- GBP 20-40 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- GBP 80+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- GBP 3-5 for a regular coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is often included in restaurants as a 12.5% charge. If not, tip 10-12%. No tip needed in pubs for drinks. Round up taxi fares or add about 10%.
TfL Go
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- GBP 2.80
- Day pass
- GBP 8.50
To the city center
London Victoria Coach Station -> London Victoria Station
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Use contactless bank cards or Oyster on buses, Tube, trams, DLR, London Overground, Elizabeth line, and most National Rail in London.
- Buses do not accept cash; daily fare capping applies automatically when you use the same contactless card or device.
Buses from Chelmsford to London
National Express runs several buses a day from Chelmsford to London. The fastest journey takes just over 2 hours. Some journeys can take over 3 hours in some cases. The earliest bus leaves Chelmsford around 7:30 a.m. getting into London just before 10:00 a.m. National Express runs roughly 3 services a day, including at the weekends. The latest bus leaves Chelmsford around 4:30 p.m, arriving into London just before 6:30 p.m. The journey is direct with no changes and departs from Chelmsford Bus Station in the town centre, arriving at London Victoria Coach Station, a main National Express hub.
Taking the Bus from Chelmsford
Buses from Chelmsford to London usually set out from Chelmsford Bus and Coach Station, which is located on Duke Street. The station is centrally located, and well-served by local and national transport services. Along the same road is Chelmsford Rail Station. Local buses operate frequent services to the coach station. There are also limited night bus services, or travelers may opt to reach the coach station via cab.
Getting into London by Bus
London, the UK’s capital and largest city, is home to world-class shops, evening entertainment venues, eateries and historic monuments. Top attractions include the statue of Eros, the London Eye, and the fascinating exhibits at the Natural History Museum. Buses from Chelmsford to London usually arrive at London Victoria Coach Station. For onward travel, there are local bus services, including route numbers C1, 22, 211 and 239. There is also the Victoria underground and rail station, which is only 300 metres from the station. cab ranks are situated just across the road from the station.
FAQs: Bus from Chelmsford to London
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chelmsford to London 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 London, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Chelmsford to London can start from as little as $19 (€15) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Chelmsford to London is $19 (€16) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by bus from Chelmsford to London is 1h 37m to travel the 29 miles (48 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from Chelmsford to London leaves at 12:02 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Chelmsford to London leaves at 11:55 PM.
A day trip to London from Chelmsford is worth doing with a journey time of 1h 37m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Chelmsford to London is February.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Chelmsford and London including taking a train and bus.
No, the bus from Chelmsford to London has no accessibility options.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from Chelmsford to London.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in London are:
- The British Museum, a world-renowned museum housing a vast collection of art and antiquities from around the globe
- The Tower of London, a historic castle and former royal residence known for its Crown Jewels and rich history
- Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the British monarch and a symbol of the British monarchy
- The Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, iconic landmarks representing the political heart of the United Kingdom
- St. Paul's Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece with a stunning dome and rich history.
The best things to do in London include:
- The London Eye, a giant Ferris wheel on the South Bank offering panoramic views of the city
- West End Theatre District, a vibrant area known for its high-quality theatrical productions and musicals
- Explore Camden Market, a bustling market known for its eclectic mix of food, fashion, and crafts
- Take a walk through Hyde Park, one of London's largest and most famous parks offering beautiful landscapes and recreational activities
- Visit the Tate Modern, a contemporary art museum housed in a former power station on the banks of the Thames.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the bus from Chelmsford to London.
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.
No, there is no food available to purchase on board the bus from Chelmsford to London.
No, luggage for the bus from Chelmsford to London needs to be booked in addition.
No, there are no additional luggage options for the bus from Chelmsford to London.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Chelmsford to London.
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from Chelmsford to London.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from Chelmsford to London.
Since neither Chelmsford nor London are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United Kingdom and United Kingdom. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chelmsford to London among Omio's users.
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 London, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like public transport, markets, and popular tourist sites. Common scams include fake charity collectors, overcharging by unlicensed taxi drivers, and distraction techniques used by thieves. Always use official black cabs or licensed minicabs booked through reputable apps, and keep personal belongings secure to reduce risks. Staying vigilant in busy locations and avoiding unsolicited offers helps ensure a safer visit.
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.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Chelmsford to London
Chelmsford
London
The major bus station for departures in Chelmsford is Chelmsford, Station (Stand VA). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Chelmsford, Station (Stand VA) for your trip from Chelmsford to London.
Chelmsford, Station (Stand VA)
information
The major bus station for arrivals in London is London, Wembley Stadium (First Way). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at London, Wembley Stadium (First Way) for your trip to London from Chelmsford.
London, Wembley Stadium (First Way)
information
More options for your journey from Chelmsford to London
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Most popular buses to and from London and Chelmsford
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