- 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.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Chelmsford to Luton
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
$24
Average ticket price on Sep 20
$24
Fastest journey on Sep 20
1 h 42 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
1 h 49 m
Trains on Sep 20
6
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 $24 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $24.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Chelmsford to Luton without transferring at least 2 times.
C02564+
C38217+
P672438:59 PM1h46Chelmsford station (CHM)10:45 PMLuton station (LUT)$241One-way2 transfers- P66958+W45440+C385788:31 PM1h42Chelmsford station (CHM)10:13 PMLuton station (LUT)$241One-way2 transfers
- P01068+
Tube from London Liverpool Street to London St Pancras International+
W709259:10 PM1h50Chelmsford station (CHM)11:00 PMLuton station (LUT)$241One-way2 transfers - P67239+C02705+C385397:59 PM1h46Chelmsford station (CHM)9:45 PMLuton station (LUT)$241One-way2 transfers
- P66963+X10635+Tube from London Liverpool Street to Farringdon9:31 PM1h59Chelmsford station (CHM)11:30 PMLuton station (LUT)$241One-way2 transfers
- P66958+W45440+C385788:31 PM1h42Chelmsford station (CHM)10:13 PMLuton station (LUT)$241One-way2 transfers
- C02564+C38217+P672438:59 PM1h46Chelmsford station (CHM)10:45 PMLuton station (LUT)$241One-way2 transfers
- P67239+C02705+C385397:59 PM1h46Chelmsford station (CHM)9:45 PMLuton station (LUT)$241One-way2 transfers
- P01068+Tube from London Liverpool Street to London St Pancras International+W709259:10 PM1h50Chelmsford station (CHM)11:00 PMLuton station (LUT)$241One-way2 transfers
- P66963+X10635+Tube from London Liverpool Street to Farringdon9:31 PM1h59Chelmsford station (CHM)11:30 PMLuton station (LUT)$241One-way2 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 train, with an average ticket price of $45 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 1h 48m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $45, while a train costs an average of $45.
Distance: 39 miles (63 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$45 Average price Cheapest | $18 Average price (fuel + tolls) | |
1h 48m Average total duration Fastest 1h 18m 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 train with an average price of $45 (€37).
The fastest way to travel from Chelmsford to Luton is by train with an average journey time of 1h 18m.
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 $45 (€37) compared to roughly $18 (€15) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-27.55 (€-22.52). The journey takes 1h 18m 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.
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.
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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
Trains from Chelmsford to Luton run on average 7 times per day, taking around 1h 18m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $32 (€26) 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 11m.
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 18m |
Cheapest ticket price $32 (€26) |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 1h 11m |
First train 3:18 AM |
Last train 11:24 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Tue |
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, Tube, London Overground from Chelmsford to Luton trainsThameslink, Greater Anglia, Tube, London Overground trains will get you between Chelmsford and Luton from $32 (€26). 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
1h 11m
Cheapest Greater Anglia Price
$34 (€28)
Greater Anglia frequency
2 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 Thameslink Duration
1h 12m
Cheapest Thameslink Price
$32 (€26)
Thameslink frequency
4 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
Tube
About
The "Tube" refers to the London Underground, a rapid transit system serving Greater London and parts of the adjacent home counties. It is operated by London Underground Limited (LUL), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Transport for London (TfL). Opened in 1863, it was the world's first underground passenger railway. The network, nicknamed "the Tube" due to its circular, deep-level tunnels, has 11 lines and 270 stations, covering approximately 250 miles. It carries over a billion passengers annually and is known for its iconic roundel symbol and schematic map.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Tube Duration
1h 32m
Cheapest Tube Price
$42 (€35)
Tube frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
You can take as much luggage as you can comfortably carry, as long as it's under two meters long and fits within the space beneath your feet or between your legs while seated.
Luggage storage
There are no luggage racks on the Tube, so you'll technically be taking up the space of an actual person with your luggage.
Cancellation Policy
If your Tube journey was delayed by 15 minutes or more for reasons within TfL's control, you can claim a refund for the single pay as you go fare for the delayed journey.
Refund
If your Tube journey is delayed by 15 minutes or more due to reasons within TfL's control, you are entitled to a refund of the single fare for the affected journey.
Amenities on board the train
Food sold onboard
Food is allowed on the Tube, but alcoholic drinks are banned on all TfL services.
USB plugs
Accessibility
Currently 93 Tube stations (more than a third of them) have step-free access, and all DLR stations and tram stops are step-free.
Pets
Dogs and other domestic animals are allowed on the London Underground as long as they are under control, on a leash or in a carrier, and not on the seats.
London Overground
About
London Overground is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a network of suburban rail services in and around Greater London. The services run from early morning until late at night, with some lines running 24 hours a day. The trains come in a variety of types, including the Class 378 Capitalstar, Class 172 Turbostar, Class 315, Class 317, Class 508 and Class 700 Desiro City. London Overground offers a range of ticket types, including single, return, off-peak and super off-peak tickets. Onboard facilities include air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, power sockets and CCTV. The most popular routes for London Overground are from Euston to Watford Junction, from Liverpool Street to Enfield Town, and from Clapham Junction to Stratford.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average London Overground Duration
1h 26m
Cheapest London Overground Price
$55 (€45)
London Overground frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
Two large items of luggage and one small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Luggage racks available at the ends of carriages and overhead storage
Cancellation Policy
Refunds subject to administrative fee and fare conditions
Refund
Full refund available for service cancellations
Amenities on board the train
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Step-free access at many stations, wheelchair spaces on trains, priority seating
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be leashed. Maximum two dogs per passenger
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
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.
- Must visit
Wardown Park
Large formal park with lakes, bridges, museum, and broad lawns, ideal for relaxing walks and one of Luton's best-loved green spaces.
- Recommended
Market Hill
Historic town centre square beside St Mary's Church, valued for events, heritage surroundings, and an authentic sense of old Luton.
- Recommended
Stockwood Park
Extensive parkland with gardens, play areas, and museum access, popular for family walks and exploring Luton's former estate landscape.
Bedfordshire Clanger
A Bedfordshire pastry with chopped meat, suet, onions and seasoning. It is closely tied to the county around Luton and is a classic local comfort food.
- Vegetarian
Chocolate Tooth Pudding
A suet dumpling stuffed with currants or jam. Long associated with Bedfordshire home cooking, it is a traditional local pudding served warm.
- Vegetarian
Bedfordshire Fruit Cake
A rich fruit cake packed with dried fruit and spices. It is a historic Bedfordshire bake often made for family gatherings and festive occasions.
Meah Restaurant
Established Turkish restaurant known for grilled meats, meze and generous portions. Casual atmosphere and dependable local favourite.
Monna Lisa
Well-known Indian restaurant with polished service and a long-standing reputation. Popular for classic curries in a smart but relaxed setting.
The Luton Dosa
Popular South Indian venue serving dosas, idli and vegetarian dishes. Simple setting, strong reputation and reliable regional flavours.
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.
Arriva UK Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.40
- Day pass
- £4.70
To the city center
Luton Airport Parkway -> Luton Station Interchange
- Distance
- 2 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on Arriva buses in Luton. Check fare caps in the operator app before you travel.
- For rail connections, use the DART between Luton Airport Parkway and London Luton Airport. Buy rail and DART tickets from official operators where possible.
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.
Train ticket prices from Chelmsford to Luton can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $32 (€26), while the average price is around $45 (€37).
The train from Chelmsford to Luton takes 1h 11m 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 $32 (€26).
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 11m, 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. 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 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 Luton station do trains from Chelmsford arrive at?
Trains from Chelmsford to Luton most often arrive at Luton. Some services arrive at London Luton Airport, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Luton arrival station.
LutonLuton station, Station Road, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU1 2LT
City-centre transport
Getting to Luton from Luton city centre
Bus17 · 7m · $2 · every ~2 min
Luton train station facilities and services
Luton has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Luton.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Luton. ATMs are available at Luton.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Luton.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Luton: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Luton: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Luton: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category B3 station: Step free access via lift to platform 5 only (some trains to Bedford/ the East Midlands) only. Steps to all other platforms. Assistance Meeting Point is the Ticket Office. This station doesn't have tactile surfaces along all platform edges. Please pay attention to where the platform surface changes from smooth to paved or contact us for assistance, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All Thameslink ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. Ticket machines are of an accessible design, however their location and the station itself may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Wheelchairs may only be available when the station is staffed, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Most popular train connections from Chelmsford
More options for your journey from Chelmsford to Luton
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Luton and Chelmsford
Most popular train connections to Luton
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