- Recommended
Chelmsford Museum
Chelmsford’s main museum covers local history, archaeology, industry, and natural heritage in a restored house and galleries.
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Travel Information
Compare train and bus for London to Chelmsford
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from London to Chelmsford among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $16. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 32m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $16, and a train costs an average of $10.
Distance: 29 miles (48 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$16 Average price Cheapest | $18 Average price | $25 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 29m Average total duration 59m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 2m Average total duration Fastest 32m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 17m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from London to Chelmsford is a bus with an average price of $16 (€16).
This is compared to other travel options from London to Chelmsford:
A bus is $2 (€2) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from London to Chelmsford costing on average $18 (€18).
The fastest way to travel from London to Chelmsford is by train with an average journey time of 32m.
Other travel options to Chelmsford take longer:
Bus takes on average 59m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between London and Chelmsford including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from London to Chelmsford among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.
You'll arrive about 18m sooner (59m by bus vs 1h 17m by car) and save roughly $9 (€9) compared to fuel and tolls ($16 (€16) vs $25 (€25)). 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.
Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.
London to Chelmsford Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greater Anglia | Departure Time 08:03AM | Arrival Time 09:08AM | Duration 1h05 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $16 |
Operator Greater Anglia | Departure Time 08:15AM | Arrival Time 09:24AM | Duration 1h09 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $16 |
Compare prices and tickets London to Chelmsford 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 London to Chelmsford
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from London to Chelmsford run on average 7 times per day, taking around 59m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $16 (€16) but you can travel from only $10 (€10) by train.
The earliest bus runs at 00:02, the last at 23:53. The fastest bus covers the 29 miles (48 km) distance in 1h 5m.
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 $10 (€10)
Distance 29 miles (48 km) |
Average bus duration 59m |
Cheapest ticket price $16 (€16) |
Buses per day 7 |
Fastest bus 1h 5m |
First bus 12:02 AM |
Last bus 11:53 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 21 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 $10 (€10)
Complete guide to Chelmsford
Things to do in Chelmsford
Discover the best of Chelmsford — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Chelmsford trip today.
- Recommended
Sandford Mill Museum
Compact museum preserving the story of radio, radar, and electronics pioneers linked to Marconi’s world-changing work in Chelmsford.
Essex Regiment Museum
Volunteer-run military museum displaying Essex Regiment collections, medals, uniforms, and stories from local service history.
- Recommended
Hylands Estate
Major historic parkland and gardens with walking trails, seasonal events, and one of Chelmsford’s most popular open spaces.
- Recommended
Central Park
Central city park with lawns, events, riverside paths, and easy access from shopping streets and the station.
- Recommended
Writtle Green
Traditional village green near the city, known for duck pond views, old cottages, and a classic Essex setting.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Tiptree Jam
Tiptree jam is a celebrated Essex preserve made from local fruit. It is a classic breakfast staple and a long-standing symbol of the county’s food heritage.
- Vegetarian
Essex Seed Cake
Essex seed cake is a traditional county bake flavoured with caraway seeds. It is especially linked with local tea tables and older Essex home baking.
- Gluten-free
Maldon Oysters
Maldon oysters from the Essex coast are prized for their clean, briny flavour. They reflect the county’s historic oyster fisheries and seafood culture.
The Blue Strawberry
Refined British tasting menus in an elegant setting. It is one of Chelmsford’s best-known fine dining destinations for seasonal cooking.
Acanteen
Established city-centre venue for Turkish and Mediterranean dishes, especially grilled meats and mezze. Warm, busy atmosphere and dependable service.
Middletons Steakhouse & Grill
Stylish modern British restaurant and bar known for steaks, grills, and cocktails. Lively but polished atmosphere in central Chelmsford.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for UK travel. Hotels and dining cost less than London, while local transit and casual meals are fairly manageable for most visitors.
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. Round up for taxis, and cafe tipping is optional.
First Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £4.70
To the city center
Chelmsford Station (Stand VA) -> High Chelmer, Chelmsford
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 4 min
- Most Chelmsford local buses accept contactless card and mobile payments; tap when boarding for adult single fares.
- Chelmsford city centre is walkable from the rail and bus stations, so check if walking is faster than waiting for a short bus trip.
FAQs: Bus from London to Chelmsford
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from London to Chelmsford 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 Chelmsford, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from London to Chelmsford can start from as little as $16 (€16) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for London to Chelmsford is $16 (€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 London to Chelmsford is 1h 5m 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 London to Chelmsford leaves at 12:02 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from London to Chelmsford leaves at 11:53 PM.
A day trip to Chelmsford from London is worth doing with a journey time of 1h 5m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from London to Chelmsford is January.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between London and Chelmsford including taking a train and bus.
No, the bus from London to Chelmsford has no accessibility options.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from London to Chelmsford.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the bus from London to Chelmsford.
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 London to Chelmsford.
No, luggage for the bus from London to Chelmsford needs to be booked in addition.
No, there are no additional luggage options for the bus from London to Chelmsford.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from London to Chelmsford.
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from London to Chelmsford.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from London to Chelmsford.
Since neither London nor Chelmsford 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 London to Chelmsford 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 Chelmsford, travelers should be aware of occasional pickpocketing in crowded areas and be cautious when using unofficial taxi services to avoid overcharging. It's advisable to keep personal belongings secure and use licensed transportation options. There are no widespread scams specific to Chelmsford, but general vigilance against common travel scams is recommended.
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 London to Chelmsford
Most London to Chelmsford buses use the London, Stratford City Bus Station to Chelmsford, Station (Stand VA) station pair. Use this guide to compare London and Chelmsford bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in London
Arrival bus stations in Chelmsford
Which London station do buses to Chelmsford leave from?
Buses from London to Chelmsford leave from London, Stratford City Bus Station. The station is from London city centre at Montfichet Road, London E20 1EG, United Kingdom.
London, Wembley Stadium (First Way)
City-centre transport
Getting to London, Wembley Stadium (First Way) from London city centre
BusN118, N18 · 1h 2m · $4 · every ~6 min
206 · 1h 9m · $6 · every ~17 min
SubwayJubilee · 37m · $13 · every ~52 min
Bakerloo · 55m · $15 · every ~35 min
Chelmsford, Station (Stand VA)Chelmsford Victoria Rd, Victoria Rd, CM1 1NY
More options for your journey from London to Chelmsford
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Chelmsford and London
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