Cardiff to Colchester train with Great Western Railway

Wed, Aug 26
+ Add return
Great Western Railway
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
Great Western Railway
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Colchester

Showing times and prices for Aug 26

Cheapest price

$77

Average price

$98

Fastest journey

3 h 26 m

Average duration

3 h 29 m

Trains per day

6

Distance

285 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff to Colchester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Cardiff to Colchester will cost around $98 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $77.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Cardiff to Colchester without transferring at least 2 times.

  • Great Western RailwayG15044+Elizabeth lineC37660+Greater AngliaP01263
    10:50 AM3h26
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    2:16 PMColchester station (COL)
    $771One-way
    2 transfers
  • Great Western RailwayW35178+Elizabeth lineC37601+Greater AngliaP01259
    10:18 AM3h28
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    1:46 PMColchester station (COL)
    $841One-way
    2 transfers
  • Great Western RailwayG15043+Elizabeth lineC37563+Greater AngliaP01254
    9:49 AM3h27
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    1:16 PMColchester station (COL)
    $841One-way
    2 transfers
  • Great Western RailwayW35432+Elizabeth lineC37942+Greater AngliaP01341
    9:19 AM3h45
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    1:04 PMColchester station (COL)
    $1111One-way
    2 transfers
  • Great Western RailwayG15042+Elizabeth lineC37884+Greater AngliaC04651
    8:38 AM3h36
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    12:14 PMColchester station (COL)
    $1151One-way
    2 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Cardiff to Colchester

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Colchester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $47. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 59m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $47, and a train costs an average of $79.

Distance: 177 miles (285 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$109

Average price

$105

Average price

Cheapest

$79

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 29m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 59m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 19m

Average total duration

5h 49m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 18m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Great Western Railway

Most popular train company

National Express

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Cardiff to Colchester is a bus with an average price of $105.

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

A bus is $4 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to Colchester costing on average $109.

The fastest way to travel from Cardiff to Colchester is by train with an average journey time of 2h 59m.

Other travel options to Colchester take longer:

Bus takes on average 5h 49m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Colchester including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Colchester 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 1h 19m sooner (2h 59m by train vs 4h 18m by car). Tickets start at around $109 compared to roughly $79 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.

Live departures

Cardiff to Colchester train times

The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Colchester trains for today, Tuesday, August 25. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Great Western Railway8:49 AM Cardiff
3h27
12:16 PM Colchester0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cardiff 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.

Wed
Aug 26
Thu
Aug 27
Fri
Aug 28
Sat
Aug 29
Sun
Aug 30
Mon
Aug 31
Tue
Sep 01

Why should you book Cardiff to Colchester trains with Omio?

Great Western Railway as well as Great Western Railway (GWR) offer trains services from Cardiff to Colchester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Colchester.

Why book with Omio vs Great Western Railway?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Great Western Railway, but also compare tickets for the likes of Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff 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 Railway with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cardiff to Colchester.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Colchester.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cardiff to Colchester

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Cardiff to Colchester run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 59m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $79 but you can travel from only $47 by bus.

The earliest train runs at 04:41, the last at 21:20. The fastest train covers the 177 miles (285 km) distance in 2h 46m.

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 $47
Distance
177 miles (285 km)
Average train duration
2h 59m
Cheapest ticket price
$79
Trains per day
6
Fastest train
2h 46m
First train
4:41 AM
Last train
9:20 PM
Cheapest Month
Mar
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Jul - Sep
Best time to book
28 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $47

Train companies: Great Western Railway from Cardiff to Colchester trainsGreat Western Railway trains will get you between Cardiff and Colchester from $47. 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 Duration
2h 46m
Cheapest Price
$79
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

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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

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.

FAQs: Trains from Cardiff to Colchester

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff 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 Cardiff to Colchester can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $79, while the average price is around $109.
The train from Cardiff to Colchester takes 2h 46m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Cardiff to Colchester is 177 miles (285 km).
The first train from Cardiff to Colchester leaves at 4:41 AM.
The last train from Cardiff to Colchester leaves at 9:20 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cardiff to Colchester.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cardiff to Colchester.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cardiff to Colchester.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Colchester is Cardiff Central (CDF), which connects to Colchester station (COL).
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff to Colchester is by bus, with a cost of around $47.
The train journey from Cardiff to Colchester offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, with highlights including the rolling countryside of South Wales and glimpses of the picturesque landscapes in Gloucestershire and Essex.
A day trip from Cardiff to Colchester is not feasible as the journey time is 2h 46m each way. However, trains run 5 times 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 Cardiff to Colchester.
Since neither Cardiff 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 Cardiff 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 Cardiff to Colchester

Most Cardiff to Colchester trains use the Cardiff Central to Colchester station pair, with some services arriving at Colchester Town. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Colchester train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Cardiff
Arrival train stations in Colchester
Cardiff CentralCentral Square, Cardiff CF10 1EP, United Kingdom+44 3457114141WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Cardiff Central from Cardiff city centre

Bus24, 25, 27, 86, 62, 30, 35, 21, 136, 7, 23, 63, 64 · 3m · $2 · every ~47 min
C1 · 5m · every ~8 min

Cardiff Central train station facilities and services

Cardiff Central 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, and Car Rental.

Food and drink

Food options include: Gourmet Coffee Bar & Kitchen, Pret a Manger, Tesco Express

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are located outside of the main entrance.

Tickets and information

The ticket office is open Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30, Sat: 05:40 - 21:30, Sun: 07:30 - 21:30.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Cardiff Central: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Cardiff Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Cardiff Central: There is step-free access in the whole station. There are also ramps for train access and elevators in the station.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Clayton Hotel Cardiff, Cardiff Marriott Hotel, Travelodge Cardiff Central.

Cardiff Queen StreetCardiff Queen Street station, Station Terrace, Cardiff, Cardiff, CF10 4EYParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Cardiff Queen Street from Cardiff city centre

Bus52, 57, 58 · 13m · $2 · every ~25 min
C1 · 21m · every ~8 min

Cardiff Queen Street train station facilities and services

Cardiff Queen Street has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Cardiff Queen Street.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Cardiff Queen Street. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 03333 211202, 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 Cardiff Queen Street: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Cardiff Queen Street: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Cardiff Queen Street: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: The ticket machines are near the main entrance and take cash and major debit and credit cards, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Travelodge.

Heath High LevelHeath High Level station, Heath Halt Road, Heath, Cardiff, CF23 5QTParkingDiningAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Heath High Level from Cardiff city centre

Heath High Level is 4 km from Cardiff city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainPenarth - Coryton, Penarth - Caerphilly, Bridgend - Rhymney, Barry Island - Bargoed, Barry Island - Rhymney, Barry Island - Caerphilly, Cardiff Central - Caerphilly, Cardiff Central - Coryton, Cardiff Central - Rhymney, Cardiff Central - Bargoed, Barry Island - Ystrad Mynach · 4m · $1 · every ~13 min
Penarth - Coryton, Penarth - Caerphilly, Bridgend - Rhymney, Barry Island - Bargoed, Barry Island - Rhymney, Barry Island - Caerphilly, Cardiff Central - Caerphilly, Cardiff Central - Coryton, Cardiff Central - Rhymney, Cardiff Central - Bargoed, Barry Island - Ystrad Mynach · 8m · $2 · every ~13 min
Bus28, 29 · 23m · $2 · every ~6 min

Heath High Level train station facilities and services

Heath High Level has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Heath High Level.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Heath High Level: Parking.

Bike and car services

Available at Heath High Level: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Heath High Level: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Category B3. The station is not suitable for wheelchair or powered mobility scooter users. Platform 1 (to Rhymney) has a long, steep access ramp. Platform 2 (to Cardiff) is only accessible via 41 steps. Customers travelling from the Rhymney Valley are advised to alight at Cardiff Queen Street and return to Heath Low Level, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: The ticket machine(s) do not accept cash. Payment is by major debit and credit cards only, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.

More options for your journey from Cardiff to Colchester

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