Chelmsford to Luton train with Thameslink

Thu, Aug 06
+ Add return
Thameslink
Greater Anglia
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
Thameslink
Greater Anglia
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
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
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest trains from Chelmsford to Luton

Showing times and prices for Aug 06

Cheapest price

$35

Average price

$43

Fastest journey

1 h 36 m

Average duration

1 h 39 m

Trains per day

3

Distance

63 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Chelmsford to Luton will cost around $43 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $35.

Fast trains

Of the 3 trains that leave Chelmsford for Luton on Thu, Aug 06, 3 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 63 km distance in an average of 1 h 39 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 36 m .

On Thu, Aug 06 the slowest trains will take 1 h 42 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.

  • Thameslink
    7:13 AM1h36
    Chelmsford
    8:49 AMLuton
    $351One-way
    0 transfers
  • Thameslink
    8:19 AM1h38
    Chelmsford
    9:57 AMLuton
    $411One-way
    0 transfers
  • Thameslink
    8:15 AM1h42
    Chelmsford
    9:57 AMLuton
    $541One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Chelmsford to Luton

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chelmsford to Luton among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $36. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 17m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $36, and a train costs an average of $24.

Distance: 39 miles (63 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$42

Average price

$36

Average price

Cheapest

$18

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

1h 47m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 17m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 9m

Average total duration

2h 39m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 11m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Chelmsford to Luton is a bus with an average price of $36.

This is compared to other travel options from Chelmsford to Luton:

A bus is $6 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Chelmsford to Luton costing on average $42.

The fastest way to travel from Chelmsford to Luton is by train with an average journey time of 1h 17m.

Other travel options to Luton take longer:

Bus takes on average 2h 39m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Chelmsford and Luton including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chelmsford to Luton 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 $42 compared to roughly $18 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-23.93. The journey takes 1h 17m versus 1h 11m 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 Luton train times

The table below shows live departures for Chelmsford to Luton trains for today, Wednesday, August 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
ThameslinkW45606+Greater AngliaP66514+Elizabeth lineC37360
Delayed
7:16 AM 7:13 AMChelmsford station (CHM)
1h36
8:49 AM Luton station (LUT)
2 transfers
ThameslinkW45396+Greater AngliaP01078+Elizabeth lineC38510
Delayed
7:50 AM 7:22 AMChelmsford station (CHM)
1h38
9:00 AM Luton station (LUT)
2 transfers
ThameslinkW45602+Elizabeth lineC38548+Greater AngliaP66932
Delayed
7:46 AM 7:44 AMChelmsford station (CHM)
1h35
9:19 AM Luton station (LUT)
2 transfers
ThameslinkW45387+Elizabeth lineC38573+Greater AngliaP66524
Delayed
7:58 AM 7:52 AMChelmsford station (CHM)
1h38
9:30 AM Luton station (LUT)
2 transfers
ThameslinkW45403+Elizabeth lineC38220+Greater AngliaP01063
On time
8:15 AM Chelmsford station (CHM)
1h42
9:57 AM Luton station (LUT)
2 transfers
Greater AngliaP66533+TubeTube from London Liverpool Street to London St Pancras International+East Midlands RailwayC41873
On time
8:25 AM Chelmsford station (CHM)
1h45
10:10 AM Luton station (LUT)
2 transfers
ThameslinkW45413+Elizabeth lineC38270+Greater AngliaP66537
Delayed
8:46 AM 8:43 AMChelmsford station (CHM)
1h44
10:27 AM Luton station (LUT)
2 transfers
Elizabeth lineC38339+ThameslinkW45535+Greater AngliaC04660
On time
9:19 AM Chelmsford station (CHM)
1h38
10:57 AM Luton station (LUT)
2 transfers
Greater AngliaP66543+TubeTube from London Liverpool Street to London St Pancras International+East Midlands RailwayC41879
On time
9:28 AM Chelmsford station (CHM)
1h42
11:10 AM Luton station (LUT)
2 transfers
ThameslinkW45375+Elizabeth lineC37329+Greater AngliaP66035
Delayed
9:46 AM 9:42 AMChelmsford station (CHM)
1h45
11:27 AM Luton station (LUT)
2 transfers
Greater AngliaP66971+TubeTube from London Liverpool Street to London St Pancras International+East Midlands RailwayC41881
On time
9:55 AM Chelmsford station (CHM)
1h45
11:40 AM Luton station (LUT)
2 transfers
Greater AngliaP01091+Elizabeth lineC37340+ThameslinkW45553
On time
10:11 AM Chelmsford station (CHM)
1h46
11:57 AM Luton station (LUT)
2 transfers
Greater AngliaP66552+TubeTube from London Liverpool Street to London St Pancras International+East Midlands RailwayC41884
On time
10:25 AM Chelmsford station (CHM)
1h45
12:10 PM Luton station (LUT)
2 transfers
Greater AngliaC04687+Elizabeth lineC37352+ThameslinkW45548
On time
10:41 AM Chelmsford station (CHM)
1h46
12:27 PM Luton station (LUT)
2 transfers
Greater AngliaC04663+TubeTube from London Liverpool Street to London St Pancras International+East Midlands RailwayC41888
On time
10:55 AM Chelmsford station (CHM)
1h45
12:40 PM Luton station (LUT)
2 transfers

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Chelmsford to Luton 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
Fri
Aug 07
Sat
Aug 08
Sun
Aug 09
Mon
Aug 10
Tue
Aug 11
Wed
Aug 12

Why should you book Chelmsford to Luton trains with Omio?

Thameslink as well as Greater Anglia offer trains services from Chelmsford to Luton.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Chelmsford to Luton.

Why book with Omio vs Thameslink?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Thameslink, but also compare tickets for the likes of Greater Anglia to find the best option for your trip from Chelmsford to Luton.
  • 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 Thameslink with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Chelmsford to Luton.

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

Journey information

Overview: Train from Chelmsford to Luton

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Chelmsford to Luton run on average 7 times per day, taking around 1h 17m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $24 if you book in advance.

The earliest train runs at 03:18, the last at 23:24. The fastest train covers the 39 miles (63 km) distance in 1h 36m.

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
39 miles (63 km)
Average train duration
1h 17m
Cheapest ticket price
$24
Trains per day
7
Fastest train
1h 36m
First train
3:18 AM
Last train
11:24 PM
Cheapest Month
Apr
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Wed
Least Busy Day
Thu
Best time to book
3 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: Thameslink, Greater Anglia from Chelmsford to Luton trainsThameslink, Greater Anglia trains will get you between Chelmsford and Luton from $24. 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
1h 45m
Cheapest Price
$24
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

Thameslink

About
Thameslink is a train service that operates in the United Kingdom. It is operated by Govia Thameslink Railway and serves the counties of Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire, London, and Surrey. The trains run from early morning until late at night, with some services running 24 hours a day. There are a variety of train types available, including Class 700 Desiro City, Class 377 Electrostar, Class 387/1 Electrostar, and Class 319/0. Ticket types include Anytime, Off-Peak, Super Off-Peak, and Advance. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, and air conditioning. The most popular routes for Thameslink are London to Brighton, London to Bedford, and London to Luton.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 36m
Cheapest Price
$34
Thameslink frequency
7 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund available if service is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on some routes offering drinks and snacks
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets free of charge. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone

Complete guide to Luton

Things to do in Luton

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

  • Must visit

Wardown House, Museum and Gallery

Luton's main museum in a Victorian mansion, covering local history, hats, lace, and changing exhibitions in a well-kept park setting.

  • Must visit

Stockwood Discovery Centre

Museum complex with rural life displays, carriages, gardens, and archaeology, making it one of Luton's strongest family-friendly heritage sites.

  • Recommended

The Hat Factory at Stockwood Discovery Centre

Working hat factory museum explaining Luton's famous hat-making trade through machinery, displays, and guided tours in an authentic setting.

British Pound Sterling (£)

Moderate for the UK. Hotels near the airport can be pricey, but dining and local transit are usually cheaper than central London.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-12 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
£2.80-4 for coffee.

Tipping culture

Service may be included. If not, tip 10-12.5% in restaurants for good service. Taxis are often rounded up. Tipping in cafes is optional.

FAQs: Trains from Chelmsford to Luton

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Chelmsford to Luton can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $24, while the average price is around $42.
The train from Chelmsford to Luton takes 1h 36m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Chelmsford to Luton leaves at 3:18 AM.
The distance by train from Chelmsford to Luton is 39 miles (63 km).
The last train from Chelmsford to Luton leaves at 11:24 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Chelmsford to Luton.
There is no direct train service currently available from Chelmsford to Luton.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Chelmsford to Luton.
The train station in Chelmsford that goes to Luton is Chelmsford station (CHM), which connects to Luton station (LUT).
The cheapest way to get from Chelmsford to Luton is by train, with a cost of around $24.
The train journey from Chelmsford to Luton primarily passes through urban and suburban areas, offering limited scenic views compared to more rural routes.
Yes, a day trip from Chelmsford to Luton is feasible. The journey takes 1h 36m, covering a distance of 39 miles (63 km). Trains run 6 times per day.
In Luton, visitors can explore The Mall Luton for shopping and dining, enjoy family-friendly activities at Woodside Animal Farm, and shop for fresh produce and crafts at Luton Indoor Market. For outdoor activities, Stockwood Park offers a space for picnics and sports. For entertainment, The Galaxy provides a cinema and bowling alley. Key sights include the Stockwood Discovery Centre with its local history exhibits and gardens, Wardown House Museum and Gallery, Luton Hoo Estate with its gardens and golf course, Whipsnade Zoo, and The Hat Factory Arts Centre, which hosts performances and art exhibitions.
Visitors typically find that spending one to two days in Luton is sufficient to explore its main attractions, such as the Stockwood Discovery Centre, Wardown House, and the charming local parks.
Yes, you can take the train from Chelmsford to Luton.
Since neither Chelmsford nor Luton 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 Luton include London, Bedford, St Albans, Wellingborough, Harpenden.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chelmsford to Luton 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 Luton, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas such as Luton Airport and the town center. Taxi scams can occur, so using licensed cabs or pre-booked transportation is advised. Be wary of unofficial currency exchange services offering poor rates or counterfeit notes. Staying vigilant in busy spots and securing personal belongings helps ensure a safe visit.
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 Luton

Most Chelmsford to Luton trains use the Chelmsford to Luton station pair, with some services arriving at Luton Airport Parkway. Use this guide to compare Chelmsford and Luton 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 Luton

Which Chelmsford station do trains to Luton leave from?

Trains from Chelmsford to Luton 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.

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.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone