Cambridge to Colchester train with Greater Anglia

Fri, Jun 19
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Greater Anglia
Thameslink
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
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2,000+ travel companies
Greater Anglia
Thameslink
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cambridge to Colchester

Showing times and prices for Jun 19

Cheapest price

$34

Average price

$35

Fastest journey

1 h 40 m

Average duration

1 h 40 m

Trains per day

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 $35 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $34.

Fast trains

Of the 3 trains that leave Cambridge for Colchester on Fri, Jun 19, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Fri, Jun 19 the direct trains cover the 64 km distance in an average of 1 h 40 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 40 m .

On Fri, Jun 19 the slowest trains will take 1 h 41 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.

  • Greater Anglia
    8:48 AM1h40
    Cambridge
    10:28 AMColchester
    $341One-way
    0 transfers
  • Greater Anglia
    3:48 PM1h41
    Cambridge
    5:29 PMColchester
    $351One-way
    0 transfers
  • Greater Anglia
    9:48 AM1h40
    Cambridge
    11:28 AMColchester
    $351One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Cambridge to Colchester

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cambridge to Colchester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $9. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 1h 43m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $9, and a bus costs an average of $18.

Distance: 39 miles (64 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$33

Average price

Cheapest

$37

Average price

$18

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

2h 19m

Average total duration

1h 49m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 13m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 43m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 24m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Greater Anglia

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 Cambridge to Colchester is a train with an average price of $33 (€27).

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

A train is $5 (€4) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Cambridge to Colchester costing on average $37 (€31).

The fastest way to travel from Cambridge to Colchester is by bus with an average journey time of 1h 43m.

Other travel options to Colchester take longer:

Train takes on average 1h 49m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cambridge and Colchester including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cambridge 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 $33 (€27) compared to roughly $18 (€14) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-15.05 (€-12.32). The journey takes 1h 49m versus 1h 24m 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

Cambridge to Colchester train times

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

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Greater Anglia8:48 AM Cambridge
1h40
10:28 AM Colchester0 transfersDirect
Greater Anglia9:48 AM Cambridge
1h40
11:28 AM Colchester0 transfersDirect
Greater Anglia3:48 PM Cambridge
1h41
5:29 PM Colchester0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cambridge 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.

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

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.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cambridge to Colchester

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Cambridge to Colchester run on average 6 times per day, taking around 1h 49m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $9 (€7) 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 33m.

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
39 miles (64 km)
Average train duration
1h 49m
Cheapest ticket price
$9 (€7)
Trains per day
6
Fastest train
1h 33m
First train
3:35 AM
Last train
10:50 PM
Cheapest Month
Nov
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Thu
Best time to book
49 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: Greater Anglia, Thameslink from Cambridge to Colchester trainsGreater Anglia, Thameslink trains will get you between Cambridge and Colchester from $9 (€7). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

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 Duration
1h 33m
Cheapest Price
$9 (€7)
Greater Anglia frequency
12 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 Duration
2h 59m
Cheapest Price
$76 (€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

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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cambridge to Colchester can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $9 (€7), while the average price is around $33 (€27).
The train from Cambridge to Colchester takes 1h 33m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Cambridge to Colchester is 39 miles (64 km).
The first train from Cambridge to Colchester leaves at 3:35 AM.
The last train from Cambridge to Colchester leaves at 10:50 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cambridge to Colchester.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cambridge to Colchester.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cambridge to Colchester.
The train station in Cambridge that goes to Colchester is Cambridge station (CBG), which connects to Colchester station (COL).
The cheapest way to get from Cambridge to Colchester is by train, with a cost of around $9 (€7).
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.
Yes, you can do a day trip from Cambridge to Colchester. The journey takes 1h 33m, covers 39 miles (64 km), and there are 5 train services per day.
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 Cambridge to Colchester.
Since neither Cambridge 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 train as it is the most popular way to get from Cambridge 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 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 8450507080WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar Rental
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 NorthCambridge North Station, Cowley Road, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB4 0WZ+44 8450507080WifiParkingDiningAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
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.

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