- 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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Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Harwich to Colchester
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Harwich to Colchester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of Kč341 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 56m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of Kč341, while a train costs an average of Kč341.
Distance: 16 miles (27 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|
Kč341 Average price Cheapest | Kč142 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
56m Average total duration Fastest 26m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 33m 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 Harwich to Colchester is a train with an average price of Kč341.
The fastest way to travel from Harwich to Colchester is by train with an average journey time of 26m.
Other travel options to Colchester take longer:
Bus takes on average 1h 18m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Harwich and Colchester including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Harwich to Colchester among Omio's users.
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 Kč0.00 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 06:41AM | Arrival Time 08:03AM | Duration 1h22 | Departure days Thu, Fri | Cheapest price Kč0.00 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 07:06AM | Arrival Time 08:17AM | Duration 1h11 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price Kč0.00 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 07:21AM | Arrival Time 08:46AM | Duration 1h25 | Departure days Thu, Fri | Cheapest price Kč0.00 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 07:46AM | Arrival Time 09:11AM | Duration 1h25 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price Kč0.00 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 08:06AM | Arrival Time 09:20AM | Duration 1h14 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price Kč0.00 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 09:01AM | Arrival Time 10:21AM | Duration 1h20 | Departure days Thu, Fri | Cheapest price Kč0.00 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 09:06AM | Arrival Time 10:20AM | Duration 1h14 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price Kč0.00 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 09:46AM | Arrival Time 11:11AM | Duration 1h25 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price Kč0.00 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 10:06AM | Arrival Time 11:20AM | Duration 1h14 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price Kč0.00 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 10:11AM | Arrival Time 11:29AM | Duration 1h18 | Departure days Thu, Fri | Cheapest price Kč0.00 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 11:06AM | Arrival Time 12:20PM | Duration 1h14 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price Kč0.00 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 11:11AM | Arrival Time 12:29PM | Duration 1h18 | Departure days Thu, Fri | Cheapest price Kč0.00 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 11:46AM | Arrival Time 01:11PM | Duration 1h25 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price Kč0.00 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 12:06PM | Arrival Time 01:22PM | Duration 1h16 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price Kč0.00 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 12:11PM | Arrival Time 01:29PM | Duration 1h18 | Departure days Thu, Fri | Cheapest price Kč0.00 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 01:09PM | Arrival Time 02:24PM | Duration 1h15 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price Kč0.00 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 01:11PM | Arrival Time 02:30PM | Duration 1h19 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price Kč0.00 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 01:46PM | Arrival Time 03:11PM | Duration 1h25 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price Kč0.00 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 02:09PM | Arrival Time 03:23PM | Duration 1h14 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price Kč0.00 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 02:21PM | Arrival Time 03:45PM | Duration 1h24 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price Kč0.00 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 03:09PM | Arrival Time 04:22PM | Duration 1h13 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price Kč0.00 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 03:16PM | Arrival Time 04:42PM | Duration 1h26 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price Kč0.00 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 03:46PM | Arrival Time 05:11PM | Duration 1h25 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price Kč0.00 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 04:21PM | Arrival Time 05:35PM | Duration 1h14 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price Kč0.00 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 04:31PM | Arrival Time 05:48PM | Duration 1h17 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price Kč0.00 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 05:41PM | Arrival Time 06:48PM | Duration 1h07 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price Kč0.00 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 05:46PM | Arrival Time 06:56PM | Duration 1h10 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price Kč0.00 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 07:06PM | Arrival Time 08:29PM | Duration 1h23 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price Kč0.00 |
Operator First Essex | Departure Time 10:16PM | Arrival Time 11:24PM | Duration 1h08 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price Kč0.00 |
Compare prices and tickets Harwich to Colchester by bus or train
Compare bus and train 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 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.
There are 18 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 05:24, the last at 23:17. The fastest bus covers the 16 miles (27 km) distance in 1h 7m.
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 Kč333
Distance 16 miles (27 km) |
Average bus duration 1h 18m |
Buses per day 18 |
Direct buses 18 |
Fastest bus 1h 7m |
First bus 5:24 AM |
Last bus 11:17 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Sat |
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 Kč333
Bus providers: First Essex from Harwich to ColchesterYou can travel by bus between Harwich to Colchester with First Essex for as low as Kč333. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
First Essex
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average First Essex Duration
1h 7m
First Essex frequency
10 a day
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.
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.
The average journey time by bus from Harwich to Colchester is 1h 7m to travel the 16 miles (27 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 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.
Yes, there are 18 direct buses a day from Harwich to Colchester with First Essex. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Harwich to Colchester, you can count on First Essex for the best way to get you to Colchester. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Harwich and Colchester and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A day trip to Colchester from Harwich is worth doing with a journey time of 1h 7m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Harwich to Colchester is September.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Harwich and Colchester including taking a bus and train.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from Harwich to Colchester.
No, the bus from Harwich to Colchester has no accessibility options.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the bus from Harwich to Colchester.
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 Harwich to Colchester.
No, luggage for the bus from Harwich to Colchester needs to be booked in addition.
No, there are no additional luggage options for the bus from Harwich to Colchester.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Harwich to Colchester.
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from Harwich to Colchester.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from Harwich to Colchester.
Since neither Harwich nor Colchester 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 Harwich to Colchester 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 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.
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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