- 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.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Chelmsford to Colchester
Showing times and prices for Aug 06
Cheapest price
$21
Average price
$21
Fastest journey
18 m
Average duration
22 m
Trains per day
11
Distance
34 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Chelmsford to Colchester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Chelmsford to Colchester will cost around $21 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $21.
Fast trains
Of the 11 trains that leave Chelmsford for Colchester on Thu, Aug 06, 11 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, Aug 06 the direct trains cover the 34 km distance in an average of 22 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 18 m .
On Thu, Aug 06 the slowest trains will take 29 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.
P010933:08 PM0h29Chelmsford station (CHM)3:37 PMColchester station (COL)$211One-way0 transfers- C046292:08 PM0h29Chelmsford station (CHM)2:37 PMColchester station (COL)$211One-way0 transfers
- C046812:34 PM0h30Chelmsford station (CHM)3:04 PMColchester station (COL)$211One-way0 transfers
- C046572:52 PM0h22Chelmsford station (CHM)3:14 PMColchester station (COL)$211One-way0 transfers
- P672314:35 PM0h30Chelmsford station (CHM)5:05 PMColchester station (COL)$211One-way0 transfers
- P012682:28 PM0h18Chelmsford station (CHM)2:46 PMColchester station (COL)$211One-way0 transfers
- P012773:28 PM0h18Chelmsford station (CHM)3:46 PMColchester station (COL)$211One-way0 transfers
- P669643:52 PM0h21Chelmsford station (CHM)4:13 PMColchester station (COL)$211One-way0 transfers
- C046572:52 PM0h22Chelmsford station (CHM)3:14 PMColchester station (COL)$211One-way0 transfers
- P010933:08 PM0h29Chelmsford station (CHM)3:37 PMColchester station (COL)$211One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Chelmsford to Colchester
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chelmsford to Colchester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $14. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 26m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $14, and a bus costs an average of $21.
Distance: 21 miles (34 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$20 Average price Cheapest | $21 Average price | $9 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
56m Average total duration Fastest 26m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 25m Average total duration 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 38m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Chelmsford to Colchester is a train with an average price of $20.
This is compared to other travel options from Chelmsford to Colchester:
A train is $1 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Chelmsford to Colchester costing on average $21.
The fastest way to travel from Chelmsford to Colchester is by train with an average journey time of 26m.
Other travel options to Colchester take longer:
Bus takes on average 55m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Chelmsford and Colchester including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chelmsford 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 12m sooner (26m by train vs 38m by car). Tickets start at around $20 compared to roughly $9 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.
Direct services run with Greater Anglia.
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
Chelmsford to Colchester train times
The table below shows live departures for Chelmsford to Colchester trains for today, Wednesday, August 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:37 AM Chelmsford | 0h30 | 8:07 AM Colchester | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 1:28 PM Chelmsford | 0h18 | 1:46 PM Colchester | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2:28 PM Chelmsford | 0h18 | 2:46 PM Colchester | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:52 PM Chelmsford | 0h21 | 9:13 PM Colchester | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Chelmsford 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.
Thu
Aug 06
Aug 06
Fri
Aug 07
Aug 07
Sat
Aug 08
Aug 08
Sun
Aug 09
Aug 09
Mon
Aug 10
Aug 10
Tue
Aug 11
Aug 11
Wed
Aug 12
Aug 12
Why should you book Chelmsford to Colchester trains with Omio?
Greater Anglia operates all trains services from Chelmsford to Colchester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Chelmsford to Colchester.
Why book with Omio vs Greater Anglia?
- 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 Chelmsford 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 Chelmsford to Colchester.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Chelmsford to Colchester
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Chelmsford to Colchester run on average 8 times per day, taking around 26m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $14 if you book in advance.
There are 7 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:11, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 21 miles (34 km) distance in 18m.
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 21 miles (34 km) |
Average train duration 26m |
Cheapest ticket price $14 |
Trains per day 8 |
Direct trains 7 |
Fastest train 18m |
First train 12:11 AM |
Last train 11:58 PM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 2 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 from Chelmsford to Colchester trainsGreater Anglia trains will get you between Chelmsford and Colchester from $14. 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
18m
Cheapest Price
$14
Greater Anglia frequency
8 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 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.
FAQs: Trains from Chelmsford to Colchester
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chelmsford 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.
Train ticket prices from Chelmsford to Colchester can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $14, while the average price is around $20.
The train from Chelmsford to Colchester takes 18m and runs 8 per day.
The first train from Chelmsford to Colchester leaves at 12:11 AM.
The distance by train from Chelmsford to Colchester is 21 miles (34 km).
The last train from Chelmsford to Colchester leaves at 11:58 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Chelmsford to Colchester.
Yes, there is a direct train from Chelmsford to Colchester. This service operates 7 times per day, provided by Greater Anglia.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Chelmsford to Colchester.
The train station in Chelmsford that goes to Colchester is Chelmsford station (CHM), which connects to Colchester station (COL).
The cheapest way to get from Chelmsford to Colchester is by train, with a cost of around $14.
The train journey from Chelmsford to Colchester primarily travels through the Essex countryside, offering views of fields, small towns, and rural landscapes, which some passengers may find scenic.
Yes, a day trip from Chelmsford to Colchester is feasible as the journey takes just 18m and the distance is 21 miles (34 km). Trains run frequently with 6 trips 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 Chelmsford to Colchester.
Since neither Chelmsford 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, Ipswich, Stratford, Clacton-on-Sea, Bury Saint Edmunds.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chelmsford 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 Chelmsford to Colchester
Most Chelmsford to Colchester trains use the Chelmsford to Colchester station pair, with some services arriving at Hythe (Essex). Use this guide to compare Chelmsford and Colchester 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 Colchester
Which Chelmsford station do trains to Colchester leave from?
Trains from Chelmsford to Colchester 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 8450507080
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.
Which Colchester station do trains from Chelmsford arrive at?
Trains from Chelmsford 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 · $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.
Colchester TownColchester Town station, St. Botolphs Circus, Colchester, Essex, CO2 7EF
City-centre transport
Getting to Colchester Town from Colchester city centre
Bus43 · 1m · $1 · every ~1 min
68, 55, 68A · 1m · $4 · every ~4 min
Colchester Town train station facilities and services
Colchester Town has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, 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 Town.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Colchester Town.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Colchester Town. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0800 028 28 78.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Colchester Town: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Colchester Town: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Colchester Town: 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, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Most popular train connections from Chelmsford
More options for your journey from Chelmsford to Colchester
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Colchester and Chelmsford
Most popular train connections to Colchester
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
