Birmingham to Colchester train with Chiltern Railways

Sat, Sep 19
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Avanti West Coast
Chiltern Railways
CrossCountry
West Midlands Trains
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2,000+ travel companies
Avanti West Coast
Chiltern Railways
CrossCountry
West Midlands Trains
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Birmingham to Colchester

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19

Cheapest price on Sep 19

$102

Average ticket price on Sep 19

$104

Fastest journey on Sep 19

4 h 1 m

Average journey duration on Sep 19

4 h 14 m

Trains on Sep 19

3

Distance

202 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Birmingham to Colchester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Birmingham to Colchester will cost around $104 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $102.

Fast trains

On Sat, Sep 19, we found 3 trains from Birmingham to Colchester, including 3 direct services.

On Sat, Sep 19 the direct trains cover the 202 km distance in an average of 4 h 14 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 1 m .

On Sat, Sep 19 the slowest trains will take 4 h 22 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.

  • Chiltern Railways
    7:46 AM4h18
    Birmingham
    12:04 PMColchester
    $1021One-way
    0 transfers
  • Chiltern Railways
    8:13 AM4h01
    Birmingham
    12:14 PMColchester
    $1021One-way
    0 transfers
  • Avanti West Coast
    9:16 AM4h22
    Birmingham
    1:38 PMColchester
    $1091One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Birmingham to Colchester

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Birmingham to Colchester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $97 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 38m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $97, while a train costs an average of $105.

Distance: 125 miles (202 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Bus
Driving

$105

Average price

$97

Average price

Cheapest

$65

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 38m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 8m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 33m

Average total duration

5h 3m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 4m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.5kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Chiltern Railways

Most popular train company

National Express

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

The cheapest way to travel from Birmingham to Colchester is a bus with an average price of $97.

This is compared to other travel options from Birmingham to Colchester:

A bus is $8 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Birmingham to Colchester costing on average $105.

The fastest way to travel from Birmingham to Colchester is by train with an average journey time of 3h 8m.

Other travel options to Colchester take longer:

Bus takes on average 5h 3m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Birmingham and Colchester including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Birmingham to Colchester among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.

Tickets start at around $105 compared to roughly $65 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-39.65. The journey takes 3h 8m versus 3h 4m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.

Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.

Live departures

Birmingham to Colchester train times

The table below shows live departures for Birmingham to Colchester trains for tomorrow, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Chiltern Railways7:46 AM Birmingham
4h18
12:04 PM Colchester0 transfersDirect
Chiltern Railways8:13 AM Birmingham
4h01
12:14 PM Colchester0 transfersDirect
Avanti West Coast9:16 AM Birmingham
4h22
1:38 PM Colchester0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Birmingham to Colchester 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.

Sat
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Fri
Sep 25

Why should you book Birmingham to Colchester trains with Omio?

West Midlands Trains as well as Avanti West Coast or Chiltern Railways offer trains services from Birmingham to Colchester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Birmingham to Colchester.

Why book with Omio vs West Midlands Trains?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for West Midlands Trains, but also compare tickets for the likes of Avanti West Coast or Chiltern Railways to find the best option for your trip from Birmingham to Colchester.
  • Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
  • Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare West Midlands Trains with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Birmingham to Colchester.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Avanti West Coast or Chiltern Railways to find the best option for your trip from Birmingham to Colchester.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Birmingham to Colchester.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Birmingham to Colchester

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Birmingham to Colchester run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 8m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $56 if you book in advance.

The earliest train runs at 03:42, the last at 21:36. The fastest train covers the 125 miles (202 km) distance in 2h 17m.

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
Distance
125 miles (202 km)
Average train duration
3h 8m
Cheapest ticket price
$56
Trains per day
6
Fastest train
2h 17m
First train
3:42 AM
Last train
9:36 PM
Cheapest Month
Jul
Cheapest Day
Fri
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Sun
Least Busy Day
Sat
Best time to book
28 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

Train companies: Chiltern Railways, Avanti West Coast, West Midlands Trains from Birmingham to Colchester trainsChiltern Railways, Avanti West Coast, West Midlands Trains trains will get you between Birmingham and Colchester from $56. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Chiltern Railways

About
Chiltern Railways is a regional train company in the United Kingdom. Check the different ticket types for your next journey: Duo, Anytime, Season, Super Off Peak, Off Peak and Advance. It operates services from London Marylebone to Birmingham Snow Hill, Oxford, Banbury, Aylesbury, High Wycombe, and Stratford-upon-Avon. It also runs services from Birmingham Moor Street to Stratford-upon-Avon. Chiltern Railways offers a range of train types, including InterCity 125, Class 165 and Class 168 trains. These trains are equipped with comfortable seating, air conditioning, power sockets, and free Wi-Fi. The company offers a variety of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, Off-Peak, and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include a café bar, a shop, and a quiet coach. The most popular routes for Chiltern Railways are London Marylebone to Birmingham Snow Hill, Oxford, and High Wycombe.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Chiltern Railways Duration
3h 6m
Cheapest Chiltern Railways Price
$57
Chiltern Railways frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation for £3. Free for Advance tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets free in carriers. Dogs allowed with lead
Quiet zone

Avanti West Coast

About
Avanti West Coast is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates high-speed trains between London and major cities in the UK, including Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow and Edinburgh. The company offers a range of ticket types, including Standard, First Class and Advance tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drinks. The most popular routes for Avanti West Coast are London to Birmingham, London to Manchester and London to Glasgow. The company operates a fleet of Pendolino and Super Voyager trains, which offer a smooth and comfortable journey.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Avanti West Coast Duration
2h 17m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
$58
Avanti West Coast frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
First Class: Complimentary meals and drinks. Standard Class: Onboard shop with drinks and snacks
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Standard Class: Optional reservation for £8-12
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/alighting available
Pets
Small pets free in carriers. Dogs £30 per single journey. Guide dogs free
Quiet zone

West Midlands Trains

About
West Midlands Trains is a train operator based in the United Kingdom, providing services across the West Midlands region. It operates a variety of train types, including the Class 350 Desiro, Class 323 Electrostar, Class 170 Turbostar, and Class 172 Turbostar. These trains offer a range of onboard facilities, such as free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and air conditioning. Passengers can purchase a range of tickets, including single, return, and season tickets. The most popular routes operated by West Midlands Trains include Birmingham to London Euston, Birmingham to Wolverhampton, and Birmingham to Coventry.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average West Midlands Trains Duration
2h 48m
Cheapest West Midlands Trains Price
$56
West Midlands Trains frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for an additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs require a ticket at 50% of adult fare. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone

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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

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.

FAQs: Trains from Birmingham to Colchester

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Birmingham to Colchester by train. 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 train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Colchester, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Birmingham to Colchester can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $56, while the average price is around $105.
The train from Birmingham to Colchester takes 2h 17m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Birmingham to Colchester is 125 miles (202 km).
The first train from Birmingham to Colchester leaves at 3:42 AM.
The last train from Birmingham to Colchester leaves at 9:36 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Birmingham to Colchester.
There is no direct train service currently available from Birmingham to Colchester.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Birmingham to Colchester.
The train station in Birmingham that goes to Colchester is Birmingham New Street (BHM), which connects to Colchester station (COL).
The cheapest way to get from Birmingham to Colchester is by bus, with a cost of around $56.
The train journey from Birmingham to Colchester offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, with views of the English countryside, rolling fields, and small towns along the route.
A day trip from Birmingham to Colchester is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 17m one way. However, there are 6 trains available per day for this route.
To fully explore Colchester's historic sites, including Colchester Castle and the Roman ruins, while also enjoying its cultural venues like the Firstsite art gallery and the natural beauty of Castle Park, plan to spend around 2 to 3 days.
Yes, you can take the train from Birmingham to Colchester.
Since neither Birmingham 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.
Popular day trips by train from Colchester include London, Chelmsford, Ipswich, Stratford, Clacton-on-Sea.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Birmingham to Colchester among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Yes, rail passes such as the BritRail Pass are valid on most trains within the United Kingdom, offering unlimited travel on participating train operators for a set period.
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.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Birmingham to Colchester

Most Birmingham to Colchester trains use the Birmingham New Street to Colchester station pair, with some services arriving at Hythe (Essex). Use this guide to compare Birmingham and Colchester train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Birmingham
Arrival train stations in Colchester
Birmingham New StreetStation Street, Birmingham, West Midlands, B2 4QA, United Kingdom+44 3457114141WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Birmingham New Street from Birmingham city centre

Bus16 · 7m · $2 · every ~27 min

Birmingham New Street train station facilities and services

Birmingham New Street has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food options include: All Bar One, Leon, Caffè Nero, Five Guys, Krispy Kreme, The Pasty Shop, Upper Crust, Wasabi, Starbucks, Hotel Chocolat

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Pay as you go Wi-Fi is available from Sky Wi-Fi The Cloud. ATMs are aTM machines are located on the paid concourse.

Tickets and information

The ticket office is open Mon - Sat: 05:15 - 23:00, Sun: 07:30 - 23:00. Information desks are in the middle of the station.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is you can leave bags with Excess Baggage Co inside the entrance off Hill Street. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Birmingham New Street: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Birmingham New Street: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Birmingham New Street: Step-free access in the whole station and ramps available for train access. All platforms have elevators and escalators.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Holiday Inn Birmingham City Center, Premier Inn Birmingham City Center (New St Station), Radisson Blue Hotel, Birmingham.

Birmingham Moor StreetBirmingham Moor Street station, Queensway, Birmingham, West Midlands, B4 7ULWifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Birmingham Moor Street from Birmingham city centre

TrainBirmingham Snow Hill - Whitlocks End, Birmingham Snow Hill - Stratford-upon-Avon, Worcester Foregate Street - Stratford-upon-Avon, Worcester Shrub Hill - Stratford-upon-Avon, Worcester Shrub Hill - Birmingham Moor Street, Worcester Foregate Street - Birmingham Moor Street, Worcester Shrub Hill - Dorridge, Stourbridge Junction - Dorridge, Birmingham Snow Hill - Dorridge, Worcester Foregate Street - Dorridge, Worcester Foregate Street - Leamington Spa, Birmingham Snow Hill - Leamington Spa, Worcester Shrub Hill - Leamington Spa, Kidderminster - Stratford-upon-Avon, Kidderminster - Whitlocks End, Stourbridge Junction - Stratford-upon-Avon, Worcester Foregate Street - Whitlocks End · 2m · $1 · every ~7 min
Bus16 · 13m · $2 · every ~27 min
TramMetro · 16m · every ~15 min

Birmingham Moor Street train station facilities and services

Birmingham Moor Street has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Car Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Birmingham Moor Street.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Birmingham Moor Street. ATMs are available at Birmingham Moor Street.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Birmingham Moor Street.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Birmingham Moor Street: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Birmingham Moor Street: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Birmingham Moor Street: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step Free Access Category A. Step free access to all platforms, Accessible taxis: If you would like us to assist you in booking an accessible taxi for your onward journey please contact 03456 005 165, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.

Birmingham Snow HillBirmingham Snow Hill station, Colmore Row, Birmingham, West Midlands, B3 2BJShoppingParkingDiningAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Birmingham Snow Hill from Birmingham city centre

Bus52 · 0m · $2 · every ~18 min

Birmingham Snow Hill train station facilities and services

Birmingham Snow Hill has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Birmingham Snow Hill.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Birmingham Snow Hill. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0800 0248998, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Birmingham Snow Hill: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Birmingham Snow Hill: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Birmingham Snow Hill: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are not available, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: A Ticket Vending Machine is available on the station concourse, by the Ticket Office, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.

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