- Must visit
Southend Central Museum
Southend's main local history museum, covering archaeology, natural history, and social heritage in a central Victorian building.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Chelmsford to Southend-on-Sea
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 05
Cheapest price on Sep 05
€12
Average ticket price on Sep 05
€12
Fastest journey on Sep 05
51 m
Average journey duration on Sep 05
56 m
Trains on Sep 05
6
Distance
28 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Chelmsford to Southend-on-Sea is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Chelmsford to Southend-on-Sea will cost around €12 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €12.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Chelmsford to Southend-on-Sea without transferring at least once.
P67195 · P667448:41 AM0h51Chelmsford station (CHM)9:32 AMSouthend Victoria (SOV)€121One-way1 transfer- P67246 · P667599:41 AM0h51Chelmsford station (CHM)10:32 AMSouthend Victoria (SOV)€121One-way1 transfer
- P01088 · P767199:11 AM1h04Chelmsford station (CHM)10:15 AMSouthend Victoria (SOV)€121One-way1 transfer
- P01198 · P767329:54 AM0h58Chelmsford station (CHM)10:52 AMSouthend Victoria (SOV)€121One-way1 transfer
- C04019 · P767018:11 AM1h04Chelmsford station (CHM)9:15 AMSouthend Victoria (SOV)€121One-way1 transfer
- P67195 · P667448:41 AM0h51Chelmsford station (CHM)9:32 AMSouthend Victoria (SOV)€121One-way1 transfer
- P67246 · P667599:41 AM0h51Chelmsford station (CHM)10:32 AMSouthend Victoria (SOV)€121One-way1 transfer
- P66967 · C040478:55 AM0h57Chelmsford station (CHM)9:52 AMSouthend Victoria (SOV)€121One-way1 transfer
- P01198 · P767329:54 AM0h58Chelmsford station (CHM)10:52 AMSouthend Victoria (SOV)€121One-way1 transfer
- P01088 · P767199:11 AM1h04Chelmsford station (CHM)10:15 AMSouthend Victoria (SOV)€121One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Chelmsford to Southend-on-Sea
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chelmsford to Southend-on-Sea among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of €13 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 1h 15m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of €13, while a train costs an average of €13.
Distance: 17 miles (28 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|
€13 Average price Cheapest | €6 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 15m Average total duration Fastest 45m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 39m 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 Southend-on-Sea is a train with an average price of €13.
The fastest way to travel from Chelmsford to Southend-on-Sea is by train with an average journey time of 45m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Chelmsford and Southend-on-Sea including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chelmsford to Southend-on-Sea 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 €13 compared to roughly €6 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about €-6.26. The journey takes 45m versus 39m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Chelmsford to Southend-on-Sea train times
The table below shows live departures for Chelmsford to Southend-on-Sea trains for tomorrow, Saturday, September 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| C04019 · P76701 | 8:11 AM Chelmsford station (CHM) | 1h04 | 9:15 AM Southend Victoria (SOV) | 1 transfer | |
| P67195 · P66744 | 8:41 AM Chelmsford station (CHM) | 0h51 | 9:32 AM Southend Victoria (SOV) | 1 transfer | |
| P66967 · C04047 | 8:55 AM Chelmsford station (CHM) | 0h57 | 9:52 AM Southend Victoria (SOV) | 1 transfer | |
| P01088 · P76719 | 9:11 AM Chelmsford station (CHM) | 1h04 | 10:15 AM Southend Victoria (SOV) | 1 transfer | |
| P67246 · P66759 | 9:41 AM Chelmsford station (CHM) | 0h51 | 10:32 AM Southend Victoria (SOV) | 1 transfer | |
| P01198 · P76732 | 9:54 AM Chelmsford station (CHM) | 0h58 | 10:52 AM Southend Victoria (SOV) | 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 Southend-on-Sea 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.
Sat
Sep 05
Sep 05
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Mon
Sep 07
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Tue
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Sep 08
Wed
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Fri
Sep 11
Sep 11
Why should you book Chelmsford to Southend-on-Sea trains with Omio?
Greater Anglia operates all trains services from Chelmsford to Southend-on-Sea.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Chelmsford to Southend-on-Sea.
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 Southend-on-Sea.
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 Southend-on-Sea.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Chelmsford to Southend-on-Sea
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Chelmsford to Southend-on-Sea run on average 8 times per day, taking around 45m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €12 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 05:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 17 miles (28 km) distance in 44m.
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 17 miles (28 km) |
Average train duration 45m |
Cheapest ticket price €12 |
Trains per day 8 |
Fastest train 44m |
First train 5:01 AM |
Last train 11:58 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Wed |
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: Greater Anglia from Chelmsford to Southend-on-Sea trainsGreater Anglia trains will get you between Chelmsford and Southend-on-Sea 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
44m
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 Southend-on-Sea
Things to do in Southend-on-Sea
Discover the best of Southend-on-Sea — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Southend-on-Sea trip today.
- Must visit
Prittlewell Priory Museum
Historic priory museum with period rooms, monastic remains, and gardens, offering one of the area's richest heritage experiences.
- Recommended
Southend Pier Museum
Specialist museum exploring Southend's famous pier, seaside holidays, and coastal life through engaging local displays.
- Must visit
Southend Seafront
Long sandy beach and promenade area popular for walks, sea views, amusements, and classic Southend seaside atmosphere.
- Must visit
Old Leigh
Historic fishing quarter with cobbled lanes, cockle sheds, and estuary views, full of local character and maritime heritage.
- Recommended
Chalkwell Park
Large clifftop park with gardens, sports space, and open views over the Thames estuary, ideal for relaxed coastal walks.
- Gluten-free
Cockles
Fresh cockles harvested from the Thames estuary, long linked with Southend's seafront stalls and seafood trade. Usually served with vinegar and pepper.
- Gluten-free
Whelks
Whelks are sea snails traditionally sold at Essex fish stalls. In Southend they are a classic seaside snack, eaten cold with salt, vinegar, and pepper.
- Gluten-free
Jellied Eels
Jellied eels are a historic Thames estuary dish. Chopped eels are cooked in spiced stock that sets into jelly, a traditional East End and Essex specialty.
Roslin Beach Hotel Restaurant
Fine dining restaurant with modern British cooking and polished service. Well regarded for tasting menus and a refined special-occasion atmosphere.
West's Seafood Restaurant
Classic seafront fish and chip restaurant known for fresh seafood, generous portions, and a traditional Southend seaside atmosphere.
The Fishermen's Wharf
Long-established seafood restaurant focusing on local fish and shellfish. Smart but relaxed setting near the seafront with strong local reputation.
British pound sterling (£)
Moderate for a UK seaside city. Hotels can rise in summer, but casual dining and local transit are usually cheaper than London. Attractions and seafront snacks can add up.
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 a coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up for taxis. Cafes usually do not expect tips, but small change is appreciated.
First Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £4.70
To the city center
Chalkwell -> Southend Central, Southend-on-Sea
- Distance
- 2.5 km
- Travel time
- 6 min
- Contactless card and mobile payment are accepted on First Bus services in Southend-on-Sea.
- For rail trips from Chalkwell, use c2c or Greater Anglia official channels to check times and buy tickets before travel.
FAQs: Trains from Chelmsford to Southend-on-Sea
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chelmsford to Southend-on-Sea 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 Southend-on-Sea, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Chelmsford to Southend-on-Sea can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €12, while the average price is around €13.
The train from Chelmsford to Southend-on-Sea takes 44m and runs 8 per day.
The distance by train from Chelmsford to Southend-on-Sea is 17 miles (28 km).
The first train from Chelmsford to Southend-on-Sea leaves at 5:01 AM.
The last train from Chelmsford to Southend-on-Sea leaves at 11:58 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Chelmsford to Southend-on-Sea.
There is no direct train service currently available from Chelmsford to Southend-on-Sea.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Chelmsford to Southend-on-Sea.
The train station in Chelmsford that goes to Southend-on-Sea is Chelmsford station (CHM), which connects to Southend Victoria (SOV).
The cheapest way to get from Chelmsford to Southend-on-Sea is by train, with a cost of around €12.
The train journey from Chelmsford to Southend-on-Sea offers a mix of urban and countryside views, with stretches of scenic landscapes, particularly as it approaches the coastal areas near Southend.
Yes, a day trip from Chelmsford to Southend-on-Sea is feasible with a travel time of 44m and a distance of 17 miles (28 km). Trains run 5 times per day.
Two to three days in Southend-on-Sea can allow you to explore its key attractions, including Adventure Island, Southend Pier, and the Sea Life Adventure Aquarium.
Yes, you can take the train from Chelmsford to Southend-on-Sea.
Since neither Chelmsford nor Southend-on-Sea 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 Southend-on-Sea include London, Barking, Rochford, Stratford, Basildon.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chelmsford to Southend-on-Sea 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 Southend-on-Sea, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the seafront and amusement parks. Common scams include overcharging in taxis that are not licensed and distraction techniques used by street vendors or performers. Staying alert in busy tourist spots and using official transportation services can help ensure safety.
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 Southend-on-Sea
Most Chelmsford to Southend-on-Sea trains use the Chelmsford to Southend Victoria station pair, with some services arriving at Southend Airport. Use this guide to compare Chelmsford and Southend-on-Sea 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 Southend-on-Sea
Which Chelmsford station do trains to Southend-on-Sea leave from?
Trains from Chelmsford to Southend-on-Sea 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 Southend-on-Sea station do trains from Chelmsford arrive at?
Trains from Chelmsford to Southend-on-Sea most often arrive at Southend Victoria. Some services arrive at Southend Airport, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Southend-on-Sea arrival station.
Southend VictoriaSouthend Victoria station, Victoria Avenue, Southend-on-Sea, Essex, SS2 6AZ
City-centre transport
Getting to Southend Victoria from Southend-on-Sea city centre
Bus25, 7, 20, 825, 827, 21S, 28, 21, 3, 26, 20S · 3m · €3 · every ~69 min
Southend Victoria train station facilities and services
Southend Victoria has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Southend Victoria.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Southend Victoria. ATMs are available at Southend Victoria.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Southend Victoria. 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 Southend Victoria: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Southend Victoria: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Southend Victoria: 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: Taxi rank at front of station, 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.
ChalkwellChalkwell station, The Ridgeway, Chalkwell, Essex, SS0 8PX
City-centre transport
Getting to Chalkwell from Southend-on-Sea city centre
Chalkwell is 3 km from Southend-on-Sea city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainShoeburyness - London Fenchurch Street, Shoeburyness - London Liverpool Street, Thorpe Bay - London Fenchurch Street, Southend Central - London Fenchurch Street, Shoeburyness - Barking, Southend Central - Upminster, Shoeburyness - Upminster, Southend Central - Barking · 4m · €1 · every ~13 min
Bus99Ot · 11m · every ~4 min
1X · 19m · €4 · every ~4 min
Chalkwell train station facilities and services
Chalkwell has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Chalkwell.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Chalkwell.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Chalkwell. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 03457 44 44 22, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Chalkwell: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Chalkwell: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Chalkwell: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Step free access is not available to either platform at this station, Accessible public telephones: No, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: No, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
PrittlewellPrittlewell station, Station Approach, Prittlewell, Essex, SS2 5BT+44 3450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Prittlewell from Southend-on-Sea city centre
Prittlewell is 1 km from Southend-on-Sea city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainSouthend Victoria - London Liverpool Street · 2m · €1 · every ~6 min
Prittlewell train station facilities and services
Prittlewell has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Prittlewell.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Prittlewell.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Prittlewell.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Prittlewell: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Prittlewell: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Prittlewell: Staff help available: 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 Southend-on-Sea
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Southend-on-Sea and Chelmsford
Most popular train connections to Southend-on-Sea
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