- 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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The cheapest and fastest trains from Bristol to Chelmsford
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
$170
Average ticket price on Sep 20
$174
Fastest journey on Sep 20
2 h 30 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
2 h 30 m
Trains on Sep 20
27
Distance
214 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Bristol to Chelmsford is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Bristol to Chelmsford will cost around $174 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $170.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Bristol to Chelmsford without transferring at least 3 times.
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9:00 PM2h41Bristol11:41 PMChelmsford$1701One-way2 transfers- 7:45 AM2h56Bristol10:41 AMChelmsford$1711One-way2 transfers
- 9:00 AM2h41Bristol11:41 AMChelmsford$1711One-way2 transfers
- 10:00 AM2h41Bristol12:41 PMChelmsford$1711One-way2 transfers
- 11:00 AM2h41Bristol1:41 PMChelmsford$1711One-way2 transfers
- 9:39 AM2h30Bristol12:09 PMChelmsford$1771One-way3 transfers
- 11:39 AM2h30Bristol2:09 PMChelmsford$1771One-way3 transfers
- 12:39 PM2h30Bristol3:09 PMChelmsford$1771One-way3 transfers
- 1:39 PM2h30Bristol4:09 PMChelmsford$1771One-way3 transfers
- 2:39 PM2h30Bristol5:09 PMChelmsford$1771One-way3 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Bristol to Chelmsford
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Bristol to Chelmsford among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of $89 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 53m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $89, while a train costs an average of $89.
Distance: 132 miles (214 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|
$89 Average price Cheapest | $57 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 53m Average total duration Fastest 2h 23m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 58m 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 Bristol to Chelmsford is a train with an average price of $89.
The fastest way to travel from Bristol to Chelmsford is by train with an average journey time of 2h 23m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Bristol and Chelmsford including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Bristol to Chelmsford among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 35m sooner (2h 23m by train vs 2h 58m by car). Tickets start at around $89 compared to roughly $57 in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Compare prices and tickets Bristol to Chelmsford 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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Why should you book Bristol to Chelmsford trains with Omio?
Elizabeth line as well as Great Western Railway offer trains services from Bristol to Chelmsford.
Omio is the only official third party seller for Elizabeth line tickets.
Why book with Omio vs Elizabeth line?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Elizabeth line, but also compare tickets for the likes of Great Western Railway to find the best option for your trip from Bristol to Chelmsford.
- 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 Elizabeth line with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Bristol to Chelmsford.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Bristol to Chelmsford
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Bristol to Chelmsford run on average 7 times per day, taking around 2h 23m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $36 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 04:53, the last at 22:11. The fastest train covers the 132 miles (214 km) distance in 2h 4m.
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 132 miles (214 km) |
Average train duration 2h 23m |
Cheapest ticket price $36 |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 2h 4m |
First train 4:53 AM |
Last train 10:11 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Best time to book 14 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: Great Western Railway, Elizabeth line from Bristol to Chelmsford trainsGreat Western Railway, Elizabeth line trains will get you between Bristol and Chelmsford from $36. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Great Western Railway
About
Great Western Railway is a train operating company in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London Paddington to the West of England, South Wales and the Cotswolds. It also operates services from London Paddington to Oxford, Reading and Bristol. It offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, Off-Peak and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, air conditioning and catering services. The most popular routes for Great Western Railway are London Paddington to Bristol, Reading and Oxford.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Great Western Railway Duration
2h 4m
Cheapest Great Western Railway Price
$36
Great Western Railway frequency
6 a day
Luggage included
Two pieces of luggage and one piece of hand luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, dedicated luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches. First Class at-seat service on some routes
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservations available for a fee. Free in First Class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone
Elizabeth line
About
Tfl Rail is a railway service operated by Transport for London in the United Kingdom. It operates on the Great Western Main Line and the Heathrow branch of the London Underground. The service runs from Paddington in London to Reading, Maidenhead, Slough, and Heathrow Airport. It also serves the towns of Taplow, Burnham, Twyford, and Hayes & Harlington. All trains are air-conditioned and feature onboard Wi-Fi, power sockets, and digital information screens. Tfl Rail offers a range of ticket types, including single and return tickets, season tickets, and Oyster cards. Oyster cards are the most popular ticket type, allowing passengers to pay for their journey with a single card. The most popular routes for Tfl Rail are Paddington to Reading, Paddington to Maidenhead, and Paddington to Heathrow Airport. These routes offer frequent services and provide passengers with a convenient way to travel between London and the surrounding areas.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Elizabeth line Duration
2h 37m
Cheapest Elizabeth line Price
$68
Elizabeth line frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
Standard luggage allowance included with ticket
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage storage areas in carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refunds available through TfL website or customer service
Refund
Full refund available for service cancellations
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
No dedicated dining car. Passengers can bring their own food and drinks
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Step-free access at most stations, wheelchair spaces on trains, priority seating
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be leashed. Guide dogs welcome
Quiet zone
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
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £4.70
To the city center
Chelmsford Railway Station -> High Chelmer Shopping Centre, Chelmsford
- Distance
- 0.5 km
- Travel time
- 6 min
- Contactless payment is accepted on First Essex buses in Chelmsford. Tap your card or device when you board.
- Chelmsford has no tram or metro system; local public transport is mainly buses plus Greater Anglia rail services.
FAQs: Trains from Bristol to Chelmsford
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bristol to Chelmsford 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 Chelmsford, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Bristol to Chelmsford can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $36, while the average price is around $89.
The train from Bristol to Chelmsford takes 2h 4m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Bristol to Chelmsford leaves at 4:53 AM.
The distance by train from Bristol to Chelmsford is 132 miles (214 km).
The last train from Bristol to Chelmsford leaves at 10:11 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Bristol to Chelmsford.
There is no direct train service currently available from Bristol to Chelmsford.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Bristol to Chelmsford.
The train station in Bristol that goes to Chelmsford is Bristol Temple Meads (BRI), which connects to Chelmsford station (CHM).
The cheapest way to get from Bristol to Chelmsford is by train, with a cost of around $36.
The train journey from Bristol to Chelmsford offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, passing through picturesque countryside areas like the Cotswolds and the rolling hills of Essex, providing a moderately scenic experience.
A day trip from Bristol to Chelmsford is not feasible, as the journey takes 2h 4m. However, there are 6 trains available per day. The distance between the two cities is 132 miles (214 km).
A visit to Chelmsford can typically be enjoyed in 1 to 2 days, allowing time to explore its historic sites, parks, and local attractions.
Yes, you can take the train from Bristol to Chelmsford.
Since neither Bristol 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.
Popular day trips by train from Chelmsford include Stratford, London, Ipswich, Romford, Colchester.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Bristol to Chelmsford 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 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 train stations
Popular train stations from Bristol to Chelmsford
Most Bristol to Chelmsford trains use the Bristol Temple Meads to Chelmsford station pair. Use this guide to compare Bristol and Chelmsford train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Bristol
Arrival train stations in Chelmsford
Bristol Temple MeadsStation Approach, Bristol, BS1 6QF, United Kingdom+44 3457114141
City-centre transport
Getting to Bristol Temple Meads from Bristol city centre
Bus16 · 7m · $5 · every ~12 min
X39, 16, 39, 522 · 8m · $5 · every ~49 min
512 · 14m
9 · 15m · $5 · every ~22 min
Bristol Temple Meads train station facilities and services
Bristol Temple Meads has practical services for this route, including Wifi, 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: The Pasty Shop, Starbucks, Upper Crust, Pumpkin Café, Hart's Bakery
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are located near Platform 3.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Sat: 05:30 - 21:30, Sun: 06:45 - 21:30. Information desks are located near the main entrance.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bristol Temple Meads: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Bristol Temple Meads: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bristol Temple Meads: Wheelchair access, elevators, escalators. .
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Holiday Inn Express Bristol City Center, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Bristol City Center, Hilton Garden Inn Bristol City Center.
Which Chelmsford station do trains from Bristol arrive at?
Trains from Bristol to Chelmsford arrive at Chelmsford. Chelmsford is from Chelmsford city centre.
ChelmsfordChelmsford station, Duke Street, Chelmsford, Essex, CM1 1HT+44 8450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Chelmsford from Chelmsford city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesReplacement transport stop at the bus stop on Victoria Road by station entrance
Chelmsford train station facilities and services
Chelmsford has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Chelmsford.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Chelmsford. ATMs are available at Chelmsford.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Chelmsford.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Chelmsford: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Chelmsford: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Chelmsford: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible taxis: Details of nearest taxis are shown on station information poster, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
More options for your journey from Bristol to Chelmsford
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Chelmsford and Bristol
Most popular train connections to Chelmsford
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