- 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 Canterbury to Colchester
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 04
- Cheapest price on Nov 04
- $89
- Average ticket price on Nov 04
- $89
- Fastest journey on Nov 04
- 1 h 53 m
- Average journey duration on Nov 04
- 1 h 53 m
- Trains on Nov 04
- 2
- Distance
- 69 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Canterbury to Colchester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Canterbury to Colchester will cost around $89 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $89.
Fast trains
On Wed, Nov 04, we found 2 trains from Canterbury to Colchester, including 2 direct services.
On Wed, Nov 04 the direct trains cover the 69 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 53 m .
On Wed, Nov 04 the slowest trains will take 1 h 53 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.
8:23 AM 1h53 Canterbury 10:16 AM Colchester $89 1 One-way 0 transfers7:23 AM 1h53 Canterbury 9:16 AM Colchester $89 1 One-way 0 transfers
8:23 AM 1h53 Canterbury 10:16 AM Colchester $89 1 One-way 0 transfers7:23 AM 1h53 Canterbury 9:16 AM Colchester $89 1 One-way 0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from Canterbury to Colchester
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Canterbury to Colchester run on average 10 times per day, taking around 2h 28m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $70 but you can travel from only $64 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 04:42, the last at 22:23. The fastest train covers the 42 miles (69 km) distance in 1h 26m.
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $64
Plan this route
Journey facts
- Distance42 miles (69 km)
- Average train duration2h 28m
- Cheapest ticket price$70
- Trains per day10
- Fastest train1h 26m
- First train4:42 AM
- Last train10:23 PM
- Cheapest MonthJun
- Cheapest DayWed
- High SeasonJan - Mar
- Low SeasonApr - Jun
- Best time to book2 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $64
Frequently asked questions about your Canterbury to Colchester trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Canterbury to Colchester.
Train ticket prices from Canterbury to Colchester can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $70, while the average price is around $85.
The train from Canterbury to Colchester takes 1h 26m and runs 10 per day.
The distance by train from Canterbury to Colchester is 42 miles (69 km).
The first train from Canterbury to Colchester leaves at 4:42 AM.
The last train from Canterbury to Colchester leaves at 10:23 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Canterbury to Colchester.
Live departures
Canterbury to Colchester train times
The table below shows live departures for Canterbury to Colchester trains for today, Tuesday, November 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 5:20 AM Canterbury | 1h58 | 7:18 AM Colchester | 2 transfers | |
| 6:14 AM Canterbury | 1h52 | 8:06 AM Colchester | 2 transfers | |
| 6:49 AM Canterbury | 2h16 | 9:05 AM Colchester | 2 transfers | |
| 7:19 AM Canterbury | 1h54 | 9:13 AM Colchester | 2 transfers | |
| 7:49 AM Canterbury | 2h14 | 10:03 AM Colchester | 2 transfers | |
| 8:23 AM Canterbury | 1h50 | 10:13 AM Colchester | 2 transfers | |
| 9:21 AM Canterbury | 1h59 | 11:20 AM Colchester | 2 transfers | |
| 10:21 AM Canterbury | 1h56 | 12:17 PM Colchester | 2 transfers | |
| 11:23 AM Canterbury | 1h53 | 1:16 PM Colchester | 2 transfers | |
| 12:23 PM Canterbury | 1h53 | 2:16 PM Colchester | 2 transfers | |
| 1:23 PM Canterbury | 1h54 | 3:17 PM Colchester | 2 transfers | |
| 2:23 PM Canterbury | 1h53 | 4:16 PM Colchester | 2 transfers | |
| 3:23 PM Canterbury | 1h48 | 5:11 PM Colchester | 2 transfers | |
| 4:20 PM Canterbury | 1h54 | 6:14 PM Colchester | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Canterbury to Colchester trains with Omio?
Southeastern as well as Greater Anglia offer trains services from Canterbury to Colchester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Canterbury to Colchester.
Why book with Omio vs Southeastern?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Southeastern, but also compare tickets for the likes of Greater Anglia to find the best option for your trip from Canterbury 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 Southeastern with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Canterbury to Colchester.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Greater Anglia to find the best option for your trip from Canterbury to Colchester.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Canterbury to Colchester.
Train companies
Train companies from Canterbury to Colchester
Trains from Canterbury to Colchester with Southeastern and Greater Anglia. High-speed trains available on this route with Southeastern. Regional trains available on this route with Southeastern and Greater Anglia. 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 47m
Cheapest Greater Anglia Price
$86
Greater Anglia frequency
3 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
Southeastern
About
Southeastern is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London to Kent, Sussex, Surrey and parts of East Anglia. It runs services from early morning until late at night, seven days a week. Southeastern has a range of train types, including high-speed Javelin trains, commuter-friendly Metro services, and the classic InterCity services. Ticket types include Advance, Off-Peak, Super Off-Peak, and Anytime tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for Southeastern are London to Kent, London to Eastbourne, and London to Hastings.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Southeastern Duration
1h 26m
Cheapest Southeastern Price
$70
Southeastern frequency
8 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at the end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on most services
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and ramps for boarding
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs allowed with ticket. Guide dogs free
Quiet zone
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Canterbury and Colchester
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Canterbury to Colchester.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Canterbury 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 Canterbury to Colchester offers views of the picturesque English countryside, passing through charming towns and rural landscapes, though it is not typically highlighted as one of the most scenic routes in the UK.
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 Canterbury to Colchester
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Canterbury 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 Canterbury to Colchester.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Canterbury to Colchester
Most Canterbury to Colchester trains use the Canterbury West to Colchester station pair, with some services arriving at Hythe (Essex). Use this guide to compare Canterbury and Colchester train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Canterbury
Arrival train stations in Colchester
Which Canterbury station do trains to Colchester leave from?
Trains from Canterbury to Colchester leave from Canterbury West. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Canterbury city centre at Canterbury West station, Station Road West, Canterbury, Kent, CT2 8AN.
Canterbury WestCanterbury West station, Station Road West, Canterbury, Kent, CT2 8AN+44 3303339232
City-centre transport
Getting to Canterbury West from Canterbury city centre
Bus21, 400, 401, Uni1, Uni2 · 14m · $4 · every ~22 min
Canterbury West train station facilities and services
Canterbury West has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Canterbury West.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Canterbury West. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Helpline Contact: 0345 322 7021 or Text relay 18001 0345 322 7021 Freephone 0800 783 4524 or Text Relay 18001 0800 783 4524, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Canterbury West: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Canterbury West: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Canterbury West: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A. This station has step free access to all platforms - Access to all platforms and interchange via lifts and stairs, Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are not wheelchair accessible, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available to book, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: two within concourse, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Assistance/Help available from station staff from First to Last trains, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Canterbury EastCanterbury East station, Station Road East, Canterbury, Kent, CT1 2RB+44 3303339232
City-centre transport
Getting to Canterbury East from Canterbury city centre
Bus649 · 9m
Canterbury East train station facilities and services
Canterbury East has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Canterbury East.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Canterbury East.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Canterbury East. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Helpline Contact: 0345 322 7021 or Text relay 18001 0345 322 7021 Freephone 0800 783 4524 or Text Relay 18001 0800 783 4524, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Canterbury East: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Canterbury East: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Canterbury East: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A. This station has step free access to all platforms - Access to all platforms and interchange via lifts and stairs, Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are not wheelchair accessible, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available to book, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: The Ticket Vending Machines's can only be accessed when the station building is open as they are in the booking hall, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Which Colchester station do trains from Canterbury arrive at?
Trains from Canterbury 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 · $2 · every ~5 min
Bus2A, 68, 87, 53, 53A, 52, 51, X20 · 6m · $3 · 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 · $2 · every ~2 min
Bus54 · 7m · $2 · every ~11 min
54 · 11m · $4 · 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 Canterbury to Colchester
Check train stations information for Canterbury and Colchester, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Canterbury that goes to Colchester is Canterbury West, which connects to Colchester.
Most popular train connections from Canterbury
Most popular trains to and from Colchester and Canterbury
Most popular train connections to Colchester
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