Chelmsford to Birmingham train with Avanti West Coast

Sun, Jun 21
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Avanti West Coast
Chiltern Railways
CrossCountry
Greater Anglia
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
Avanti West Coast
Chiltern Railways
CrossCountry
Greater Anglia
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Chelmsford to Birmingham

Showing times and prices for Jun 21

Cheapest price

$225

Average price

$225

Fastest journey

3 h 56 m

Average duration

3 h 56 m

Trains per day

1

Distance

182 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Chelmsford to Birmingham will cost around $225 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $225.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Chelmsford to Birmingham without transferring at least 3 times.

  • Greater Anglia
    7:55 AM3h56
    Chelmsford
    11:51 AMBirmingham
    $2251One-way
    3 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train for Chelmsford to Birmingham

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chelmsford to Birmingham among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $60. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 43m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $60, and a train costs an average of $60.

Distance: 113 miles (182 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Driving

$89

Average price

Cheapest

$60

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 13m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 43m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 39m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Avanti West Coast

Most popular train company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Chelmsford to Birmingham is a train with an average price of $89 (€73).
The fastest way to travel from Chelmsford to Birmingham is by train with an average journey time of 2h 43m.
Yes, you can take a train between Chelmsford and Birmingham.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chelmsford to Birmingham 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 $89 (€73) compared to roughly $60 (€49) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-29.12 (€-23.83). The journey takes 2h 43m versus 2h 39m 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

Chelmsford to Birmingham train times

The table below shows live departures for Chelmsford to Birmingham trains for tomorrow, Sunday, June 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Greater Anglia7:55 AM Chelmsford
3h56
11:51 AM Birmingham3 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Chelmsford to Birmingham by train

Compare train 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
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26
Sat
Jun 27

Why should you book Chelmsford to Birmingham trains with Omio?

Avanti West Coast as well as Chiltern Railways, CrossCountry, Greater Anglia and more offer trains services from Chelmsford to Birmingham.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Chelmsford to Birmingham.

Why book with Omio vs Avanti West Coast?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Avanti West Coast, but also compare tickets for the likes of Chiltern Railways, CrossCountry or Greater Anglia to find the best option for your trip from Chelmsford to Birmingham.
  • 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.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Chiltern Railways, CrossCountry or Greater Anglia to find the best option for your trip from Chelmsford to Birmingham.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Chelmsford to Birmingham

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Chelmsford to Birmingham run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 43m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $60 (€49) if you book in advance.

The earliest train runs at 05:11, the last at 21:55. The fastest train covers the 113 miles (182 km) distance in 2h 39m.

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
113 miles (182 km)
Average train duration
2h 43m
Cheapest ticket price
$60 (€49)
Trains per day
6
Fastest train
2h 39m
First train
5:11 AM
Last train
9:55 PM
Cheapest Month
Nov
Cheapest Day
Fri
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Mon
Best time to book
21 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: Avanti West Coast, Chiltern Railways, CrossCountry, Greater Anglia from Chelmsford to Birmingham trainsAvanti West Coast, Chiltern Railways, CrossCountry, Greater Anglia trains will get you between Chelmsford and Birmingham from $60 (€49). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Avanti West Coast

About
Avanti West Coast is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates high-speed trains between London and major cities in the UK, including Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow and Edinburgh. The company offers a range of ticket types, including Standard, First Class and Advance tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drinks. The most popular routes for Avanti West Coast are London to Birmingham, London to Manchester and London to Glasgow. The company operates a fleet of Pendolino and Super Voyager trains, which offer a smooth and comfortable journey.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 39m
Cheapest Price
$60 (€49)
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
First Class: Complimentary meals and drinks. Standard Class: Onboard shop with drinks and snacks
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Standard Class: Optional reservation for £8-12
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/alighting available
Pets
Small pets free in carriers. Dogs £30 per single journey. Guide dogs free
Quiet zone

Chiltern Railways

About
Chiltern Railways is a regional train company in the United Kingdom which is owned by Arriva Trains and has operated since 1996. Check the different ticket types for your next #[+travelMode] #[+journey]: Duo, Anytime, Season, Super Off Peak, Off Peak and Advance. syn p Chiltern Railways is a train company based in the United Kingdom with trains #[+journey]. It operates services from London Marylebone to Birmingham Snow Hill, Oxford, Banbury, Aylesbury, High Wycombe, and Stratford-upon-Avon. It also runs services from Birmingham Moor Street to Stratford-upon-Avon. Chiltern Railways offers a range of train types, including InterCity 125, Class 165 and Class 168 trains. These trains are equipped with comfortable seating, air conditioning, power sockets, and free Wi-Fi. The company offers a variety of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, Off-Peak, and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include a café bar, a shop, and a quiet coach. The most popular routes for Chiltern Railways are London Marylebone to Birmingham Snow Hill, Oxford, and High Wycombe.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 25m
Cheapest Price
$92 (€75)
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation for £3. Free for Advance tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets free in carriers. Dogs allowed with lead
Quiet zone

CrossCountry

About
CrossCountry is a fast-speed train operator in the United Kingdom, offering both express and regional services across the country. Express services, such as the CrossCountry Voyager and XC Trains, provide quick and comfortable journeys with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. Regional services, including the CrossCountry Regional and Regional Express, make more local stops for a leisurely trip. Ticket options include Standard Class and First Class, as well as Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak fares to suit different budgets and schedules. Popular routes include London to Birmingham, Manchester to Edinburgh, and Bristol to Reading.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone

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
3h 8m
Cheapest Price
$225 (€184)
Greater Anglia frequency
1 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

Complete guide to Birmingham

Things to do in Birmingham

Discover the best of Birmingham — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Birmingham trip today.

  • Must visit

Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery

Major city museum with Pre-Raphaelite art, local history, and rotating exhibitions in a landmark civic building.

  • Recommended

Thinktank, Birmingham Science Museum

Family-friendly science museum with interactive galleries, a planetarium, and displays on industry and innovation.

  • Recommended

Ikon Gallery

Leading contemporary art gallery in Brindleyplace, known for ambitious exhibitions in a restored Victorian school building.

Pound sterling

Moderate by UK standards. Chain cafes and pubs are affordable, while central hotels and upscale dining cost more.

Average meal costs

Budget
GBP 8-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
Mid-range
GBP 18-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
Fine dining
GBP 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee
GBP 3-4.50 for a cappuccino or latte.

Tipping culture

Service charge may be added in restaurants. If not, tip 10-12.5% for good service. Round up taxis. Tipping in pubs and cafes is optional.

FAQs: Trains from Chelmsford to Birmingham

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chelmsford to Birmingham 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 Birmingham, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Chelmsford to Birmingham can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $60 (€49), while the average price is around $89 (€73).
The train from Chelmsford to Birmingham takes 2h 39m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from Chelmsford to Birmingham leaves at 5:11 AM.
The distance by train from Chelmsford to Birmingham is 113 miles (182 km).
The last train from Chelmsford to Birmingham leaves at 9:55 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Chelmsford to Birmingham.
There is no direct train service currently available from Chelmsford to Birmingham.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Chelmsford to Birmingham.
The train station in Chelmsford that goes to Birmingham is Chelmsford station (CHM), which connects to Birmingham New Street (BHM).
The cheapest way to get from Chelmsford to Birmingham is by train, with a cost of around $60 (€49).
The train journey from Chelmsford to Birmingham offers a blend of urban and rural scenery, with views of the Essex countryside, historic towns, and the industrial landscapes of the Midlands.
A day trip from Chelmsford to Birmingham is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 39m. However, with a frequency of 4 trips per day by train, it is possible to plan your travel accordingly. The distance covered is 113 miles (182 km).
In Birmingham, you can explore the historic Jewellery Quarter, take a canal boat tour, and visit the National SEA LIFE Centre. Enjoy performances at the Birmingham Hippodrome and discover history at the Birmingham Back to Backs. Must-see sights include the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, Cadbury World, Birmingham Botanical Gardens, Symphony Hall, and The Bullring shopping center.
Two to three days are generally sufficient to explore Birmingham's key attractions, including its museums, culinary scene, and shopping areas.
Yes, you can take the train from Chelmsford to Birmingham.
Since neither Chelmsford nor Birmingham 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 Birmingham include Leicester, Leamington Spa, Coventry, Wolverhampton, Derby.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chelmsford to Birmingham 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 Birmingham, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in busy areas like shopping districts and public transport hubs. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and fake charity collectors. It's advisable to use licensed taxis, keep valuables secure, and remain alert in crowded places to avoid these risks.
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 Chelmsford to Birmingham

Most Chelmsford to Birmingham trains use the Chelmsford to Birmingham New Street station pair, with some services arriving at Birmingham Moor Street. Use this guide to compare Chelmsford and Birmingham train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Chelmsford
Arrival train stations in Birmingham

Which Chelmsford station do trains to Birmingham leave from?

Trains from Chelmsford to Birmingham leave from Chelmsford. The station is from Chelmsford city centre at Chelmsford station, Duke Street, Chelmsford, Essex, CM1 1HT.
ChelmsfordChelmsford station, Duke Street, Chelmsford, Essex, CM1 1HT+44 8450507080WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parking
City-centre transport

Getting to Chelmsford from Chelmsford city centre

Location for Rail Replacement ServicesReplacement transport stop at the bus stop on Victoria Road by station entrance

Chelmsford train station facilities and services

Chelmsford has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, and Bike Parking.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Chelmsford.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Chelmsford. ATMs are available at Chelmsford.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Chelmsford.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Chelmsford: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Chelmsford: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Chelmsford: 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.

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