- 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 Harwich to Colchester
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 04
- Cheapest price on Nov 04
- $0
- Average ticket price on Nov 04
- -$0
- Fastest journey on Nov 04
- 1 h 10 m
- Average journey duration on Nov 04
- 1 h 19 m
- Buses on Nov 04
- 6
- Distance
- 27 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Harwich to Colchester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
Fast buses
On Wed, Nov 04, we found 6 buses from Harwich to Colchester, including 6 direct services.
On Wed, Nov 04 the direct buses cover the 27 km distance in an average of 1 h 19 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 1 h 10 m .
On Wed, Nov 04 the slowest buses will take 1 h 24 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.
1:11 PM 1h19 Harwich 2:30 PM Colchester Find prices0 transfers2:21 PM 1h24 Harwich 3:45 PM Colchester Find prices0 transfers3:16 PM 1h26 Harwich 4:42 PM Colchester Find prices0 transfers4:31 PM 1h17 Harwich 5:48 PM Colchester Find prices0 transfers5:46 PM 1h10 Harwich 6:56 PM Colchester Find prices0 transfers
5:46 PM 1h10 Harwich 6:56 PM Colchester Find prices0 transfers4:31 PM 1h17 Harwich 5:48 PM Colchester Find prices0 transfers1:11 PM 1h19 Harwich 2:30 PM Colchester Find prices0 transfers7:06 PM 1h23 Harwich 8:29 PM Colchester Find prices0 transfers2:21 PM 1h24 Harwich 3:45 PM Colchester Find prices0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Harwich to Colchester
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Take a bus from Harwich to Colchester and enjoy the approximately 16 miles (27 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest bus runs at 05:24, the last at 23:17.
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 $16
Distance 16 miles (27 km) |
First bus 5:24 AM |
Last bus 11:17 PM |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 7 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 $16
Frequently asked questions about your Harwich to Colchester trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Harwich to Colchester.
The earliest bus from Harwich to Colchester leaves at 5:24 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Harwich to Colchester leaves at 11:17 PM.
Harwich to Colchester Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 06:11AM | Arrival Time 07:22AM | Duration 1h11 | Departure days Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $0 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 06:41AM | Arrival Time 08:03AM | Duration 1h22 | Departure days Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $0 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 07:06AM | Arrival Time 08:17AM | Duration 1h11 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $0 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 07:21AM | Arrival Time 08:46AM | Duration 1h25 | Departure days Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $0 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 07:46AM | Arrival Time 09:11AM | Duration 1h25 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $0 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 08:06AM | Arrival Time 09:20AM | Duration 1h14 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $0 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 09:01AM | Arrival Time 10:21AM | Duration 1h20 | Departure days Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $0 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 09:06AM | Arrival Time 10:20AM | Duration 1h14 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $0 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 09:46AM | Arrival Time 11:11AM | Duration 1h25 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $0 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 10:06AM | Arrival Time 11:20AM | Duration 1h14 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $0 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 10:11AM | Arrival Time 11:29AM | Duration 1h18 | Departure days Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $0 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 11:06AM | Arrival Time 12:20PM | Duration 1h14 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $0 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 11:11AM | Arrival Time 12:29PM | Duration 1h18 | Departure days Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $0 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 11:46AM | Arrival Time 01:11PM | Duration 1h25 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $0 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 12:06PM | Arrival Time 01:22PM | Duration 1h16 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $0 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 12:11PM | Arrival Time 01:29PM | Duration 1h18 | Departure days Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $0 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 01:09PM | Arrival Time 02:24PM | Duration 1h15 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $0 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 01:11PM | Arrival Time 02:30PM | Duration 1h19 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $0 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 01:46PM | Arrival Time 03:11PM | Duration 1h25 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $0 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 02:09PM | Arrival Time 03:23PM | Duration 1h14 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $0 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 02:21PM | Arrival Time 03:45PM | Duration 1h24 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $0 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 03:09PM | Arrival Time 04:22PM | Duration 1h13 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $0 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 03:16PM | Arrival Time 04:42PM | Duration 1h26 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $0 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 03:46PM | Arrival Time 05:11PM | Duration 1h25 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $0 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 04:21PM | Arrival Time 05:35PM | Duration 1h14 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $0 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 04:31PM | Arrival Time 05:48PM | Duration 1h17 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $0 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 05:41PM | Arrival Time 06:48PM | Duration 1h07 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $0 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 05:46PM | Arrival Time 06:56PM | Duration 1h10 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $0 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 07:06PM | Arrival Time 08:29PM | Duration 1h23 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $0 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 10:16PM | Arrival Time 11:24PM | Duration 1h08 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $0 |
Live departures
Harwich to Colchester bus times
The table below shows live departures for Harwich to Colchester buses for tomorrow, Wednesday, November 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1:11 PM Harwich | 1h19 | 2:30 PM Colchester | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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 Harwich to Colchester
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Harwich 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 Harwich and Colchester including taking a bus and train.
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.
More options for your journey from Harwich to Colchester
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Colchester and Harwich
Most popular bus connections to Colchester
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