- 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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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cambridge to Colchester
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 02
- Cheapest price on Nov 02
- €8
- Average ticket price on Nov 02
- €22
- Fastest journey on Nov 02
- 1 h 40 m
- Average journey duration on Nov 02
- 1 h 53 m
- Trains on Nov 02
- 3
- Distance
- 64 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cambridge to Colchester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cambridge to Colchester will cost around €22 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €8.
Fast trains
On Mon, Nov 02, we found 3 trains from Cambridge to Colchester, including 3 direct services.
On Mon, Nov 02 the direct trains cover the 64 km distance in an average of 1 h 53 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 40 m .
On Mon, Nov 02 the slowest trains will take 2 h 18 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.
9:59 AM 2h18 Cambridge 12:17 PM Colchester €8 1 One-way 0 transfers1:48 PM 1h40 Cambridge 3:28 PM Colchester €29 1 One-way 0 transfers9:48 AM 1h40 Cambridge 11:28 AM Colchester €29 1 One-way 0 transfers
9:48 AM 1h40 Cambridge 11:28 AM Colchester €29 1 One-way 0 transfers1:48 PM 1h40 Cambridge 3:28 PM Colchester €29 1 One-way 0 transfers9:59 AM 2h18 Cambridge 12:17 PM Colchester €8 1 One-way 0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cambridge to Colchester
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cambridge to Colchester run on average 7 times per day, taking around 1h 53m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €16 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 03:35, the last at 22:50. The fastest train covers the 39 miles (64 km) distance in 1h 29m.
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
Plan this route
Journey facts
- Distance39 miles (64 km)
- Average train duration1h 53m
- Cheapest ticket price€16
- Trains per day7
- Fastest train1h 29m
- First train3:35 AM
- Last train10:50 PM
- Cheapest MonthNov
- Cheapest DaySat
- High SeasonJan - Mar
- Low SeasonOct - Dec
- Busiest DaySun
- Least Busy DayThu
- Best time to book14 days
Understand & plan this route
Explore this journey
Book with confidence
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
Frequently asked questions about your Cambridge to Colchester trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Cambridge to Colchester.
Train ticket prices from Cambridge to Colchester can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €16, while the average price is around €44.
The train from Cambridge to Colchester takes 1h 29m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Cambridge to Colchester leaves at 3:35 AM.
The distance by train from Cambridge to Colchester is 39 miles (64 km).
The last train from Cambridge to Colchester leaves at 10:50 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cambridge to Colchester.
Live departures
Cambridge to Colchester train times
The table below shows live departures for Cambridge to Colchester trains for today, Sunday, November 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| P76254 · P67194 | On time 7:22 AM Cambridge South | 2h49 | 10:11 AM Colchester station (COL) | 1 transfer | |
| P76260 · P01232 | On time 8:00 AM Cambridge South | 2h16 | 10:16 AM Colchester station (COL) | 1 transfer | |
| P02107 · P67078 | On time 9:00 AM Cambridge station (CBG) | 1h59 | 10:59 AM Colchester station (COL) | 1 transfer | |
| P02112 · P67210 | On time 9:46 AM Cambridge station (CBG) | 1h44 | 11:30 AM Colchester station (COL) | 1 transfer | |
| P76284 · P01247 | On time 10:00 AM Cambridge South | 2h16 | 12:16 PM Colchester station (COL) | 1 transfer | |
| P02118 · P67214 | On time 10:46 AM Cambridge station (CBG) | 1h44 | 12:30 PM Colchester station (COL) | 1 transfer | |
| P76296 · P01256 | On time 11:00 AM Cambridge South | 2h16 | 1:16 PM Colchester station (COL) | 1 transfer | |
| P02122 · P67218 | On time 11:46 AM Cambridge station (CBG) | 1h44 | 1:30 PM Colchester station (COL) | 1 transfer | |
| P76308 · P01265 | On time 12:00 PM Cambridge South | 2h16 | 2:16 PM Colchester station (COL) | 1 transfer | |
| P02125 · P67222 | On time 12:46 PM Cambridge station (CBG) | 1h44 | 2:30 PM Colchester station (COL) | 1 transfer | |
| P76319 · P01274 | On time 1:00 PM Cambridge South | 2h16 | 3:16 PM Colchester station (COL) | 1 transfer | |
| P02128 · P67226 | On time 1:46 PM Cambridge station (CBG) | 1h44 | 3:30 PM Colchester station (COL) | 1 transfer | |
| P76331 · P01282 | On time 2:00 PM Cambridge South | 2h16 | 4:16 PM Colchester station (COL) | 1 transfer | |
| P02133 · P01296 | On time 2:46 PM Cambridge station (CBG) | 1h36 | 4:22 PM Colchester station (COL) | 1 transfer | |
| P76343 · P01290 | On time 3:00 PM Cambridge South | 2h16 | 5:16 PM Colchester station (COL) | 1 transfer | |
| P02139 · P67139 | On time 3:46 PM Cambridge station (CBG) | 1h33 | 5:19 PM Colchester station (COL) | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Cambridge to Colchester trains with Omio?
Greater Anglia as well as Thameslink offer trains services from Cambridge to Colchester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cambridge to Colchester.
Why book with Omio vs Greater Anglia?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Greater Anglia, but also compare tickets for the likes of Thameslink to find the best option for your trip from Cambridge 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 Greater Anglia with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cambridge to Colchester.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Thameslink to find the best option for your trip from Cambridge to Colchester.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cambridge to Colchester.
Train companies
Train companies from Cambridge to Colchester
Trains from Cambridge to Colchester with Greater Anglia and Thameslink. Regional trains available on this route with Greater Anglia and Thameslink. Use the details below to compare onboard facilities.
Greater Anglia
About
Greater Anglia is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from commuter trains to intercity services. The commuter trains run at regular intervals throughout the day, while the intercity services run at peak times. The train types include the InterCity 125, InterCity 225, Class 90, Class 91, Class 360 and Class 379. The ticket types available are Standard, First Class and Advance. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, air conditioning and refreshment trolleys. The most popular routes for Greater Anglia are London Liverpool Street to Norwich, London Liverpool Street to Cambridge and London Liverpool Street to Ipswich.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Greater Anglia Duration
1h 29m
Cheapest Greater Anglia Price
€16
Greater Anglia frequency
6 a day
Luggage included
Two items of luggage per person included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar service on intercity routes with hot and cold drinks, snacks. No service on local routes.
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee. Free for First Class tickets.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs require a ticket (£6 flat fee). Guide dogs travel free.
Quiet zone
Thameslink
About
Thameslink is a train service that operates in the United Kingdom. It is operated by Govia Thameslink Railway and serves the counties of Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire, London, and Surrey. The trains run from early morning until late at night, with some services running 24 hours a day. There are a variety of train types available, including Class 700 Desiro City, Class 377 Electrostar, Class 387/1 Electrostar, and Class 319/0. Ticket types include Anytime, Off-Peak, Super Off-Peak, and Advance. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, and air conditioning. The most popular routes for Thameslink are London to Brighton, London to Bedford, and London to Luton.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Thameslink Duration
1h 57m
Cheapest Thameslink Price
€62
Thameslink frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund available if service is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on some routes offering drinks and snacks
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets free of charge. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Cambridge and Colchester
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
There is no high speed train available from Cambridge to Colchester.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cambridge to Colchester.
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.
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
- £2.50
- Day pass
- £4.80
To the city center
Colchester Railway Station -> Colchester Town Centre, Colchester
- Distance
- 2 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Most local buses in Colchester accept contactless card and mobile payments. Buy before boarding in the First Bus app if you want to compare fares.
- Colchester city services are mainly buses rather than tram or metro. Check operator-specific tickets, as fares can vary between bus companies.
Plan your visit to Colchester
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Colchester.
The train journey from Cambridge to Colchester offers a pleasant view of the English countryside, including glimpses of rolling fields and charming villages, though it may not be considered exceptionally scenic compared to more renowned routes.
Popular day trips by train from Colchester include London, Chelmsford, Ipswich, Stratford, Clacton-on-Sea.
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.
FAQs: Trains from Cambridge to Colchester
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cambridge 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.
Yes, you can take the train from Cambridge to Colchester.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Cambridge to Colchester
Most Cambridge to Colchester trains use the Cambridge to Colchester station pair, with some services arriving at Hythe (Essex). Use this guide to compare Cambridge and Colchester train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Cambridge
Arrival train stations in Colchester
Which Cambridge station do trains to Colchester leave from?
Trains from Cambridge to Colchester leave from Cambridge. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Cambridge city centre at Cambridge station, Station Road, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB1 2JW.
CambridgeCambridge station, Station Road, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB1 2JW+44 8450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Cambridge from Cambridge city centre
Cambridge is 1 km from Cambridge city centre. Public transport options include:
BusU1, U2 · 11m · every ~11 min
Tour · 13m · €2
75 · 15m
A · 15m · €2 · every ~11 min
Cambridge train station facilities and services
Cambridge has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Cambridge.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Cambridge. ATMs are available at Cambridge.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Cambridge.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cambridge: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Cambridge: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cambridge: 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.
Cambridge SouthTrumpington, Cambridge CB2 9FQ, UK
Cambridge NorthCambridge North Station, Cowley Road, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB4 0WZ+44 8450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Cambridge North from Cambridge city centre
Cambridge North is 3 km from Cambridge city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainLondon Liverpool Street - Cambridge North, Stansted Airport - Norwich, Cambridge - Norwich, London Liverpool Street - Ely, Stansted Airport - Lowestoft, Cambridge - Cambridge North, Bishops Stortford - Cambridge North, Audley End - Cambridge North, Audley End - Norwich · 3m · €2 · every ~6 min
BusB · 12m · €2 · every ~8 min
114 · 18m
2, B · 23m · €2 · every ~19 min
Cambridge North train station facilities and services
Cambridge North has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Cambridge North.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Cambridge North.
Tickets and information
Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from information point, Helpline Contact: 0800 028 2878.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cambridge North: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Cambridge North: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cambridge North: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible taxis: Details of the nearest taxi will be supplied by station staff, 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: Yes.
Which Colchester station do trains from Cambridge arrive at?
Trains from Cambridge to Colchester most often arrive at Colchester. Some services arrive at Hythe (Essex), so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Colchester arrival station.
ColchesterColchester [North] station, Station Approach Road, Colchester, Essex, CO1 1XD+44 8450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Colchester from Colchester city centre
Colchester is 1 km from Colchester city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainClacton-on-Sea - London Liverpool Street, Clacton-on-Sea - Colchester, Colchester Town - London Liverpool Street, Colchester Town - Colchester, Walton-on-the-Naze - Colchester · 8m · €1 · every ~5 min
Bus2A, 68, 87, 53, 53A, 52, 51, X20 · 6m · €2 · every ~31 min
Colchester train station facilities and services
Colchester has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Colchester.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Colchester. ATMs are available at Colchester.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Colchester. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0800 028 28 78, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Colchester: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Colchester: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Colchester: 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.
Hythe (Essex)Hythe station, Station Road, Hythe, Essex, CO2 8JR
City-centre transport
Getting to Hythe (Essex) from Colchester city centre
Hythe (Essex) is 1 km from Colchester city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainColchester - Clacton-on-Sea, Colchester - Walton-on-the-Naze · 4m · €1 · every ~2 min
Bus54 · 7m · €1 · every ~11 min
54 · 11m · €3 · every ~11 min
Hythe (Essex) train station facilities and services
Hythe (Essex) has practical services for this route, including Parking, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office, and Bike Parking.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Hythe (Essex): Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Hythe (Essex): Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Hythe (Essex): 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.
Train stations for Cambridge to Colchester
Check train stations information for Cambridge and Colchester, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Cambridge that goes to Colchester is Cambridge, which connects to Colchester.
Most popular train connections from Cambridge
Most popular trains to and from Colchester and Cambridge
Most popular train connections to Colchester
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