- Must visit
Ipswich Museum
Ipswich’s main museum and gallery, covering local history, archaeology, art, and natural science in a major Victorian institution.
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 Ipswich
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
$22
Average ticket price on Sep 20
$29
Fastest journey on Sep 20
42 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
47 m
Trains on Sep 20
6
Distance
59 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Chelmsford to Ipswich is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Chelmsford to Ipswich will cost around $29 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $22.
Fast trains
On Sun, Sep 20, we found 6 trains from Chelmsford to Ipswich, including 5 direct services.
On Sun, Sep 20 the direct trains cover the 59 km distance in an average of 47 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 42 m .
On Sun, Sep 20 the slowest trains will take 48 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.
P01645 · P012228:43 AM0h53Chelmsford station (CHM)9:36 AMIpswich station (IPS)$221One-way1 transfer- P012178:00 AM0h42Chelmsford station (CHM)8:42 AMIpswich station (IPS)$301One-way0 transfers
- P0133910:42 AM0h48Chelmsford station (CHM)11:30 AMIpswich station (IPS)$301One-way0 transfers
- P6720511:42 AM0h48Chelmsford station (CHM)12:30 PMIpswich station (IPS)$301One-way0 transfers
- P671949:42 AM0h48Chelmsford station (CHM)10:30 AMIpswich station (IPS)$301One-way0 transfers
- P012178:00 AM0h42Chelmsford station (CHM)8:42 AMIpswich station (IPS)$301One-way0 transfers
- P0133910:42 AM0h48Chelmsford station (CHM)11:30 AMIpswich station (IPS)$301One-way0 transfers
- P6720511:42 AM0h48Chelmsford station (CHM)12:30 PMIpswich station (IPS)$301One-way0 transfers
- P671949:42 AM0h48Chelmsford station (CHM)10:30 AMIpswich station (IPS)$301One-way0 transfers
- P6720912:42 PM0h48Chelmsford station (CHM)1:30 PMIpswich station (IPS)$301One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Chelmsford to Ipswich
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chelmsford to Ipswich among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of $24 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 1h 14m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $24, while a train costs an average of $24.
Distance: 36 miles (59 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|
$24 Average price Cheapest | $16 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 14m Average total duration Fastest 44m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 54m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Chelmsford to Ipswich is a train with an average price of $24.
The fastest way to travel from Chelmsford to Ipswich is by train with an average journey time of 44m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Chelmsford and Ipswich including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chelmsford to Ipswich 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 10m sooner (44m by train vs 54m by car). Tickets start at around $24 compared to roughly $16 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 Ipswich train times
The table below shows live departures for Chelmsford to Ipswich trains for today, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| F37552 | On time 8:08 AM Chelmsford station (CHM) | 0h58 | 9:06 AM Ipswich station (IPS) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| P67199 | On time 8:34 AM Chelmsford station (CHM) | 0h50 | 9:24 AM Ipswich station (IPS) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| C04028 · P01221 | On time 8:52 AM Chelmsford station (CHM) | 0h43 | 9:35 AM Ipswich station (IPS) | 1 transfer | |
| F56968 | On time 9:08 AM Chelmsford station (CHM) | 0h58 | 10:06 AM Ipswich station (IPS) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| P67204 | On time 9:34 AM Chelmsford station (CHM) | 0h50 | 10:24 AM Ipswich station (IPS) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| P66939 · P01231 | On time 9:52 AM Chelmsford station (CHM) | 0h43 | 10:35 AM Ipswich station (IPS) | 1 transfer | |
| F21160 | On time 10:08 AM Chelmsford station (CHM) | 0h58 | 11:06 AM Ipswich station (IPS) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| P67208 | On time 10:34 AM Chelmsford station (CHM) | 0h50 | 11:24 AM Ipswich station (IPS) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| P66943 · P01237 | On time 10:52 AM Chelmsford station (CHM) | 0h44 | 11:36 AM Ipswich station (IPS) | 1 transfer | |
| F21159 | On time 11:09 AM Chelmsford station (CHM) | 0h57 | 12:06 PM Ipswich station (IPS) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| P67212 | On time 11:34 AM Chelmsford station (CHM) | 0h50 | 12:24 PM Ipswich station (IPS) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| P66946 · P01246 | On time 11:52 AM Chelmsford station (CHM) | 0h43 | 12:35 PM Ipswich station (IPS) | 1 transfer | |
| F21158 | On time 12:08 PM Chelmsford station (CHM) | 0h58 | 1:06 PM Ipswich station (IPS) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| P67216 | On time 12:34 PM Chelmsford station (CHM) | 0h50 | 1:24 PM Ipswich station (IPS) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| F21157 | On time 1:08 PM Chelmsford station (CHM) | 0h58 | 2:06 PM Ipswich station (IPS) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| P67220 | On time 1:34 PM Chelmsford station (CHM) | 0h50 | 2:24 PM Ipswich station (IPS) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| P66955 · P01264 | On time 1:52 PM Chelmsford station (CHM) | 0h43 | 2:35 PM Ipswich station (IPS) | 1 transfer | |
| F21156 | On time 2:08 PM Chelmsford station (CHM) | 0h58 | 3:06 PM Ipswich station (IPS) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| P67224 | On time 2:34 PM Chelmsford station (CHM) | 0h50 | 3:24 PM Ipswich station (IPS) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| P66960 · P01273 | On time 2:52 PM Chelmsford station (CHM) | 0h43 | 3:35 PM Ipswich station (IPS) | 1 transfer | |
| F21155 | On time 3:08 PM Chelmsford station (CHM) | 0h58 | 4:06 PM Ipswich station (IPS) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| P67228 | On time 3:34 PM Chelmsford station (CHM) | 0h50 | 4:24 PM Ipswich station (IPS) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| P66965 · P01281 | On time 3:52 PM Chelmsford station (CHM) | 0h44 | 4:36 PM Ipswich station (IPS) | 1 transfer | |
| F21154 | On time 4:08 PM Chelmsford station (CHM) | 0h58 | 5:06 PM Ipswich station (IPS) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| P67232 | On time 4:34 PM Chelmsford station (CHM) | 0h50 | 5:24 PM Ipswich station (IPS) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| P66981 · P01289 | On time 4:52 PM Chelmsford station (CHM) | 0h43 | 5:35 PM Ipswich station (IPS) | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Chelmsford to Ipswich 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.
Sun
Sep 20
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Sep 24
Fri
Sep 25
Sep 25
Sat
Sep 26
Sep 26
Why should you book Chelmsford to Ipswich trains with Omio?
Greater Anglia operates all trains services from Chelmsford to Ipswich.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Chelmsford to Ipswich.
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 Ipswich.
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 Ipswich.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Chelmsford to Ipswich
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Chelmsford to Ipswich run on average 10 times per day, taking around 44m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $12 if you book in advance.
There are 7 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:56. The fastest train covers the 36 miles (59 km) distance in 37m.
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 36 miles (59 km) |
Average train duration 44m |
Cheapest ticket price $12 |
Trains per day 10 |
Direct trains 7 |
Fastest train 37m |
First train 12:05 AM |
Last train 11:56 PM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 42 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 Ipswich trainsGreater Anglia trains will get you between Chelmsford and Ipswich from $12. 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 Greater Anglia Duration
37m
Cheapest Greater Anglia Price
$12
Greater Anglia frequency
6 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 Ipswich
Things to do in Ipswich
Discover the best of Ipswich — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Ipswich trip today.
- Must visit
Christchurch Mansion
Elegant mansion museum in Christchurch Park with period rooms, Ipswich treasures, and changing displays in a beautiful historic setting.
- Recommended
Ipswich Art Gallery
Free contemporary gallery showing regional and national artists. A strong stop for visitors exploring Ipswich’s modern cultural scene.
- Must visit
Christchurch Park
Large historic park with lawns, wooded walks, tennis courts, and mansion views. It is Ipswich’s classic green escape near the centre.
- Must visit
Ipswich Waterfront
Regenerated marina district with quayside walks, public art, and lively views of boats and historic warehouses day or night.
- Recommended
Cornhill
Main civic square framed by Town Hall and historic buildings. A natural starting point for markets, events, and town-centre sightseeing.
- Gluten-free
Suffolk Ham
A traditional Suffolk cured ham, usually served thinly sliced. It is prized for its dry cure and long local heritage in East Anglian food culture.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Baron Bigod Or Suffolk Blue Cheese
A regional blue cheese made in Suffolk from cow's milk. Its creamy texture and rich, tangy taste make it a classic local cheese board choice.
- Gluten-free
Suffolk Coastal Fish
Fresh fish landed from the Suffolk coast, often cod, plaice, or sole. It reflects Ipswich's long trading links with nearby North Sea fishing ports.
The Unruly Pig
Well-known Ipswich pub and dining room serving classic British dishes, local ales, and seasonal produce in a smart yet relaxed setting.
Milsoms Kesgrave Hall
Refined restaurant in nearby Great Bealings with modern British tasting menus, strong Suffolk sourcing, and an elegant country-house setting.
Applaud Coffee
Popular independent venue in the town centre serving brunch, coffee, and modern British plates in a stylish casual space.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK: hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local buses and casual meals remain fairly affordable 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
- £3-4.50 for cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Taxis are often rounded up. Cafes usually do not require tips.
First Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £4.50
To the city center
Ipswich Railway Station -> Cornhill, Ipswich
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless card and mobile payments are accepted on First Bus services in Ipswich. Tap your card or device when you board.
- Most local bus fares are capped, but check the operator app before travel for the latest prices and live service updates.
FAQs: Trains from Chelmsford to Ipswich
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chelmsford to Ipswich 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 Ipswich, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Chelmsford to Ipswich can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $12, while the average price is around $24.
The train from Chelmsford to Ipswich takes 37m and runs 10 per day.
The distance by train from Chelmsford to Ipswich is 36 miles (59 km).
The first train from Chelmsford to Ipswich leaves at 12:05 AM.
The last train from Chelmsford to Ipswich leaves at 11:56 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Chelmsford to Ipswich.
Yes, there is a direct train from Chelmsford to Ipswich. This service operates 7 times per day, provided by Greater Anglia.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Chelmsford to Ipswich.
The train station in Chelmsford that goes to Ipswich is Chelmsford station (CHM), which connects to Ipswich station (IPS).
The cheapest way to get from Chelmsford to Ipswich is by train, with a cost of around $12.
The train journey from Chelmsford to Ipswich offers picturesque views of the English countryside, with stretches of green fields, quaint villages, and occasional glimpses of rivers and woodlands.
Yes, a day trip from Chelmsford to Ipswich is feasible with a journey time of 37m and a distance of 36 miles (59 km). Trains run 7 times per day.
In Ipswich, visitors can enjoy performances at the New Wolsey Theatre, explore walking trails at Orwell Country Park, and discover transport heritage at the Ipswich Transport Museum. Dance enthusiasts can visit DanceEast for performances and workshops, while families might enjoy Jimmy's Farm & Wildlife Park. Notable sights include the vibrant Ipswich Waterfront, historic Christchurch Mansion, Ipswich Museum, and the scenic Holywells Park. For local cuisine and views, the Suffolk Food Hall is a must-visit.
To thoroughly explore Ipswich's cultural attractions, historic sites, and nearby Suffolk countryside, a stay of 2 to 3 days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Chelmsford to Ipswich.
Since neither Chelmsford nor Ipswich 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 Ipswich include London, Stowmarket, Norwich, Colchester, Stratford.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chelmsford to Ipswich 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 Ipswich, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the town center and markets. Scams involving overcharging by unofficial taxi drivers can occur, so it’s advisable to use licensed cabs or pre-booked transportation. Travelers should also remain aware of their surroundings at night, as isolated areas may have increased petty crime.
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 Ipswich
Most Chelmsford to Ipswich trains use the Chelmsford to Ipswich station pair. Use this guide to compare Chelmsford and Ipswich 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 Ipswich
Which Chelmsford station do trains to Ipswich leave from?
Trains from Chelmsford to Ipswich 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 Ipswich station do trains from Chelmsford arrive at?
Trains from Chelmsford to Ipswich arrive at Ipswich. Ipswich is 0 miles (1 km) from Ipswich city centre.
IpswichIpswich station, Burrell Road, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP2 8AL+44 3450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Ipswich from Ipswich city centre
Ipswich is 1 km from Ipswich city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus13, 12, 23, 3, 119, 3E · 7m · $2 · every ~27 min
12, 3, 13, 15, 119, 3E, 23 · 9m · $2 · every ~35 min
111 · 21m
Ipswich train station facilities and services
Ipswich has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Ipswich.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Ipswich. ATMs are available at Ipswich.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Ipswich.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Ipswich: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Ipswich: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Ipswich: 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: Yes.
Most popular train connections from Chelmsford
More options for your journey from Chelmsford to Ipswich
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Ipswich and Chelmsford
Most popular train connections to Ipswich
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.
