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The cheapest and fastest trains from Bristol to Colchester
Showing times and prices for Dec 07
Cheapest price
€37
Average price
€50
Fastest journey
3 h 16 m
Average duration
3 h 38 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
246 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Bristol to Colchester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Bristol to Colchester will cost around €50 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €37.
Fast trains
Of the 3 trains that leave Bristol for Colchester on Sun, Dec 07, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, Dec 07 the direct trains cover the 246 km distance in an average of 3 h 38 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 16 m .
On Sun, Dec 07 the slowest trains will take 4 h 12 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.
09:00AM4h12
Bristol01:12PMColchester
€371One-way
0 transfers
10:00AM3h16
Bristol01:16PMColchester
€561One-way
0 transfers
06:45AM3h26
Bristol10:11AMColchester
€571One-way
0 transfers
10:00AM3h16
Bristol01:16PMColchester
€561One-way
0 transfers
06:45AM3h26
Bristol10:11AMColchester
€571One-way
0 transfers
09:00AM4h12
Bristol01:12PMColchester
€371One-way
0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Bristol to Colchester
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Bristol to Colchester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €33. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 43m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €33, and a train costs an average of €31.
Distance: 152 miles (246 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus |
|---|---|
€100 Average price | €47 Average price Cheapest |
3h 13m Average total duration Fastest 2h 43m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 11m Average total duration 5h 41m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.6kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Bristol to Colchester train times
The table below shows live departures for Bristol to Colchester trains for today, Saturday, December 6. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 4:00 AM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4:30 AM Bristol | 3h16 | 7:46 AM Colchester | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 5:34 AM Bristol | 3h30 | 9:04 AM Colchester | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:30 AM Bristol | 3h16 | 10:46 AM Colchester | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Bristol 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.
Sun
Dec 07
Dec 07
Mon
Dec 08
Dec 08
Tue
Dec 09
Dec 09
Wed
Dec 10
Dec 10
Thu
Dec 11
Dec 11
Fri
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Dec 12
Sat
Dec 13
Dec 13
Why should you book Bristol to Colchester trains with Omio?
Great Western Rail as well as first_great_western offer trains services from Bristol to Colchester. Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Bristol to Colchester.
Why book with Omio vs Great Western Rail?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Great Western Rail, but also compare tickets for the likes of first_great_western to find the best option for your trip from Bristol 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 Great Western Rail with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Bristol to Colchester.
Why book with Omio over Trainline and Rail Europe?
- Multiple travel company options: While Great Western Rail tickets can be bought on Great Western Rail's website or third party sellers, Omio allows you to compare with the likes of first_great_western to help you choose the right option for your journey from Bristol to Colchester.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Bristol to Colchester.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Bristol to Colchester
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Bristol to Colchester run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 43m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $38 (€31) if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 03:42, the last at 22:00. The fastest train covers the 152 miles (246 km) distance in 3h 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
Distance 152 miles (246 km) |
Average train duration 2h 43m |
Cheapest ticket price $38 (€31) |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 3h 7m |
First train 03:42 |
Last train 22:00 |
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 Rail, first_great_western from Bristol to Colchester trainsGreat Western Rail, first_great_western trains will get you between Bristol and Colchester from $38 (€31). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Great Western Rail
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 Duration
2h 54m
Cheapest Price
$38 (€31)
Great Western Rail 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
first_great_western
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 45m
Cheapest Price
$187 (€151)
first_great_western frequency
25 a day
FAQs: Trains from Bristol to Colchester
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bristol 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.
A day trip from Bristol to Colchester is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 7m. Trains run 6 times per day, covering a distance of 152 miles (246 km).
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.
The train journey from Bristol to Colchester offers a mix of urban and rural views, passing through the picturesque countryside of the Cotswolds and the rolling landscapes of the East of England, providing some scenic stretches along the route.
The distance by train from Bristol to Colchester is 152 miles (246 km).
The train from Bristol to Colchester takes 3h 7m and runs 6 per day.
Train ticket prices from Bristol to Colchester can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $38 (€31), while the average price is around $124 (€100).
The train station in Bristol that goes to Colchester is Bristol Temple Meads (BRI), which connects to Colchester station (COL).
The cheapest way to get from Bristol to Colchester is by train, with a cost of around $38 (€31).
The first train from Bristol to Colchester leaves at 3:42 AM.
There is no high speed train available from Bristol to Colchester.
Yes, you can take the train from Bristol to Colchester.
The last train from Bristol to Colchester leaves at 10:00 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Bristol to Colchester.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Bristol to Colchester.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Bristol to Colchester
Bristol
Colchester
The major train station for departures in Bristol is Bristol Temple Meads. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Bristol Temple Meads for your trip from Bristol to Colchester.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Sat: 05:30 - 21:30
- Sun: 06:45 - 21:30
Wifi
- Free Wi-Fi in the station.
Shopping
- Type of shops available: WHS/M&S; Uppercrust; Pumpkin; Pasty Shop; Starbucks; Lily's Flowers
Parking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Dining
- The Pasty Shop
- Starbucks
- Upper Crust
- Pumpkin Café
- Hart's Bakery
Taxis
- Taxi: The taxi rank is available on the station forecourt. If you require an accessible taxi please approach a member of staff for assistance. To reach the station forecourt; exit through the ticket barriers, turn left and exit through the main doors. You can find more information about local taxi services here.
- Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available
Accessibility
- Wheelchair access, elevators, escalators.
WC
- Toilets Location: Ladies, Gents and Baby Change are located in the Passenger Subway. The Baby Change is located next to the Ladies Toilets. An additional Baby Change facility is also located in the Accessible Toilet on Platform 13/15. Accessible Toilets are located on Platform 3 by the Help Desk and on Platform 13/15.
- National key toilets: Yes
- National key toilets location: Radar Key available from station staff.
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Hotel
- Holiday Inn Express Bristol City Center
- DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Bristol City Center
- Hilton Garden Inn Bristol City Center
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: Waiting Rooms are located on Platform 5/7 and on Platform 13/15
Ticket Office
- Mon - Sat: 05:30 - 21:30
- Sun: 06:45 - 21:30
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: The main storage location for bikes is at The Friary at Temple Quay, just to the right of the ramped exit from the long stay car park. A limited bike storage location can be found on Station Approach by Queen Anne's Gate. There is no longer any bike storage inside the station.
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Located near the main entrance.
Public transit options for Bristol Temple Meads
- Bus lines: A1, 1, 2, 8, 39/349/X39, 70, 73, 178, 376
- Train lines: CrossCountry, Great Western Main Line, Severn Beach Line
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Station front. Alternative: the lower approach road, outside the front of Bristol & Exeter House
Amenities at train station
WifiParkingDiningAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike Parkinginformation
Parking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
- Staff help available: No
- Step free access note: Step free Category B1 station - step free access available to both platforms via ramp and choice of drop off points, however adjacent car parks need to be used for full step free access. Safety warning - Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge. Please take extra care when using this station.
- 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
- Ramp for train access: No
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage location: Located on both platforms
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Clifton Down
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Bus stops on either side of Whiteladies Road outside Clifton Down Shopping Centre
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike Parkinginformation
Distance to city center
1 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: No
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Step Free Category A Station - This station has step free access to the platform
- Accessible taxis: No
- Ramp for train access: No
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage location: platform
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Montpelier
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Bus stops on either side of Cheltenham Road
The major train station for arrivals in Colchester is Colchester. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Colchester for your journey to Colchester from Bristol.
Amenities at train station
WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:00 - 22:00 Saturday 05:30 - 21:00 Sunday 06:00 - 21:00
Distance to city center
1 kmShopping
- Type of shops available: News agent Dry cleaner Passport Photo Booth
Parking
- Car Park: Premium Bays
Accessibility
- 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
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on all platforms. The accessible (radar key) toilets are located on Platforms 2 and 4
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Situated by the South entrance, and in the main car park by the North entrance. A secure 134-space cycle compound is also available (key fob required, speak to station staff for availability).
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 0800 028 28 78
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens
Public transit options for Colchester
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Replacement transport stop at the bus stop by main station entrance
Amenities at train station
WifiParkingDiningAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 06:10 - 20:15 Saturday 07:00 - 18:45 Sunday Closed
Parking
- Car Park: There is a Council managed car park behind the station
Accessibility
- 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
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
WC
- Toilets Location: Toilets are located alongside the ticket office and only open when the station is staffed.
- National key toilets: No
- Baby changing facilities: No
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Within station, forecourt and on platform
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 0800 028 28 78
Public transit options for Colchester Town
- Onward travel information: Colchester Town Station is around 5 minutes walk from Colchester Bus Station
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Town Railway Station Bus Stops (stop B) for planned rail replacement only.
Amenities at train station
ParkingAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike Parkinginformation
Distance to city center
1 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Accessible taxis: Details of nearest taxis are shown on station information poster
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage location: Platforms
- Storage CCTV: No
Public transit options for Hythe (Essex)
- Onward travel information: Local Colchester Town service Buses stop near station
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Replacement bus services stop at station entrance adjacent to level crossing
Most popular train connections from Bristol
More options for your journey from Bristol to Colchester
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Colchester and Bristol
Most popular train connections to Colchester
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