Colchester to Birmingham train with Avanti West Coast

Mon, Jun 22
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Avanti West Coast
Chiltern Railways
West Midlands Trains
Greater Anglia
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
Avanti West Coast
Chiltern Railways
West Midlands Trains
Greater Anglia
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Colchester to Birmingham

Showing times and prices for Jun 22

Cheapest price

$101

Average price

$101

Fastest journey

4 h

Average duration

4 h

Trains per day

1

Distance

202 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Colchester to Birmingham will cost around $101 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $101.

Fast trains

Of the 1 trains that leave Colchester for Birmingham on Mon, Jun 22, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Mon, Jun 22 the direct trains cover the 202 km distance in an average of 4 h but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h .

On Mon, Jun 22 the slowest trains will take 4 h 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.

  • Chiltern Railways
    9:33 AM4h00
    Colchester
    1:33 PMBirmingham
    $1011One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Colchester to Birmingham

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Colchester to Birmingham among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $41. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 2m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $41, and a train costs an average of $50.

Distance: 125 miles (202 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Bus
Driving

$95

Average price

$69

Average price

Cheapest

$64

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 32m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 2m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 26m

Average total duration

5h 56m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 3m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.5kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Avanti West Coast

Most popular train company

National Express

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

The cheapest way to travel from Colchester to Birmingham is a bus with an average price of $69 (€56).

This is compared to other travel options from Colchester to Birmingham:

A bus is $26 (€22) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Colchester to Birmingham costing on average $95 (€78).

The fastest way to travel from Colchester to Birmingham is by train with an average journey time of 3h 2m.

Other travel options to Birmingham take longer:

Bus takes on average 5h 56m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Colchester and Birmingham including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Colchester to Birmingham 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 1m sooner (3h 2m by train vs 3h 3m by car). Tickets start at around $95 (€78) compared to roughly $64 (€53) 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.

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

Colchester to Birmingham train times

The table below shows live departures for Colchester to Birmingham trains for today, Sunday, June 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Chiltern Railways6:00 AM Colchester
6h07
12:07 PM Birmingham0 transfersDirect
Chiltern Railways8:00 AM Colchester
4h10
12:10 PM Birmingham0 transfersDirect
Chiltern Railways9:00 AM Colchester
4h07
1:07 PM Birmingham0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Colchester to Birmingham by bus or train

Compare bus and train 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.

Mon
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26
Sat
Jun 27
Sun
Jun 28

Why should you book Colchester to Birmingham trains with Omio?

Avanti West Coast as well as Chiltern Railways, West Midlands Trains, Greater Anglia and more offer trains services from Colchester to Birmingham.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Colchester to Birmingham.

Why book with Omio vs Avanti West Coast?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Avanti West Coast, but also compare tickets for the likes of Chiltern Railways, West Midlands Trains or Greater Anglia to find the best option for your trip from Colchester to Birmingham.
  • 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 Avanti West Coast with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Colchester to Birmingham.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Chiltern Railways, West Midlands Trains or Greater Anglia to find the best option for your trip from Colchester to Birmingham.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Colchester to Birmingham.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Colchester to Birmingham

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Colchester to Birmingham run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 2m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $50 (€41) but you can travel from only $41 (€34) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 04:42, the last at 21:37. The fastest train covers the 125 miles (202 km) distance in 2h 56m.

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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $41 (€34)
Distance
125 miles (202 km)
Average train duration
3h 2m
Cheapest ticket price
$50 (€41)
Trains per day
6
Fastest train
2h 56m
First train
4:42 AM
Last train
9:37 PM
Cheapest Month
Jul
Cheapest Day
Fri
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Mon
Least Busy Day
Mon
Best time to book
35 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $41 (€34)

Train companies: Avanti West Coast, Chiltern Railways, West Midlands Trains, Greater Anglia from Colchester to Birmingham trainsAvanti West Coast, Chiltern Railways, West Midlands Trains, Greater Anglia trains will get you between Colchester and Birmingham from $41 (€34). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Avanti West Coast

About
Avanti West Coast is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates high-speed trains between London and major cities in the UK, including Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow and Edinburgh. The company offers a range of ticket types, including Standard, First Class and Advance tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drinks. The most popular routes for Avanti West Coast are London to Birmingham, London to Manchester and London to Glasgow. The company operates a fleet of Pendolino and Super Voyager trains, which offer a smooth and comfortable journey.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 56m
Cheapest Price
$50 (€41)
Avanti West Coast frequency
5 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
First Class: Complimentary meals and drinks. Standard Class: Onboard shop with drinks and snacks
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Standard Class: Optional reservation for £8-12
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/alighting available
Pets
Small pets free in carriers. Dogs £30 per single journey. Guide dogs free
Quiet zone

Chiltern Railways

About
Chiltern Railways is a regional train company in the United Kingdom which is owned by Arriva Trains and has operated since 1996. Check the different ticket types for your next #[+travelMode] #[+journey]: Duo, Anytime, Season, Super Off Peak, Off Peak and Advance. syn p Chiltern Railways is a train company based in the United Kingdom with trains #[+journey]. It operates services from London Marylebone to Birmingham Snow Hill, Oxford, Banbury, Aylesbury, High Wycombe, and Stratford-upon-Avon. It also runs services from Birmingham Moor Street to Stratford-upon-Avon. Chiltern Railways offers a range of train types, including InterCity 125, Class 165 and Class 168 trains. These trains are equipped with comfortable seating, air conditioning, power sockets, and free Wi-Fi. The company offers a variety of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, Off-Peak, and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include a café bar, a shop, and a quiet coach. The most popular routes for Chiltern Railways are London Marylebone to Birmingham Snow Hill, Oxford, and High Wycombe.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 0m
Cheapest Price
$84 (€69)
Chiltern Railways frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation for £3. Free for Advance tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets free in carriers. Dogs allowed with lead
Quiet zone

West Midlands Trains

About
West Midlands Trains is a train operator based in the United Kingdom, providing services across the West Midlands region. It operates a variety of train types, including the Class 350 Desiro, Class 323 Electrostar, Class 170 Turbostar, and Class 172 Turbostar. These trains offer a range of onboard facilities, such as free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and air conditioning. Passengers can purchase a range of tickets, including single, return, and season tickets. The most popular routes operated by West Midlands Trains include Birmingham to London Euston, Birmingham to Wolverhampton, and Birmingham to Coventry.
Luggage & cancellation policy
West Midlands Trains frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for an additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs require a ticket at 50% of adult fare. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone

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
3h 40m
Cheapest Price
$235 (€192)
Greater Anglia frequency
1 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 Birmingham

Things to do in Birmingham

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

  • Must visit

Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery

Major city museum with Pre-Raphaelite art, local history, and rotating exhibitions in a landmark civic building.

  • Recommended

Thinktank, Birmingham Science Museum

Family-friendly science museum with interactive galleries, a planetarium, and displays on industry and innovation.

  • Recommended

Ikon Gallery

Leading contemporary art gallery in Brindleyplace, known for ambitious exhibitions in a restored Victorian school building.

Pound sterling

Moderate by UK standards. Chain cafes and pubs are affordable, while central hotels and upscale dining cost more.

Average meal costs

Budget
GBP 8-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
Mid-range
GBP 18-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
Fine dining
GBP 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee
GBP 3-4.50 for a cappuccino or latte.

Tipping culture

Service charge may be added in restaurants. If not, tip 10-12.5% for good service. Round up taxis. Tipping in pubs and cafes is optional.

FAQs: Trains from Colchester to Birmingham

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Colchester to Birmingham can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $50 (€41), while the average price is around $95 (€78).
The train from Colchester to Birmingham takes 2h 56m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Colchester to Birmingham is 125 miles (202 km).
The first train from Colchester to Birmingham leaves at 4:42 AM.
The last train from Colchester to Birmingham leaves at 9:37 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Colchester to Birmingham.
There is no direct train service currently available from Colchester to Birmingham.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Colchester to Birmingham.
The train station in Colchester that goes to Birmingham is Colchester station (COL), which connects to Birmingham New Street (BHM).
The cheapest way to get from Colchester to Birmingham is by bus, with a cost of around $41 (€34).
The Colchester to Birmingham train journey offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, passing through picturesque countryside areas, including parts of the East Anglian landscape and the Midlands, with some views of historic towns and rolling hills.
A day trip from Colchester to Birmingham is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 56m. However, there are 5 trains available per day for this route, covering a distance of 125 miles (202 km).
In Birmingham, you can explore the historic Jewellery Quarter, take a canal boat tour, and visit the National SEA LIFE Centre. Enjoy performances at the Birmingham Hippodrome and discover history at the Birmingham Back to Backs. Must-see sights include the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, Cadbury World, Birmingham Botanical Gardens, Symphony Hall, and The Bullring shopping center.
Two to three days are generally sufficient to explore Birmingham's key attractions, including its museums, culinary scene, and shopping areas.
Yes, you can take the train from Colchester to Birmingham.
Since neither Colchester nor Birmingham 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 Birmingham include Leicester, Leamington Spa, Coventry, Wolverhampton, Derby.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Colchester to Birmingham 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 Birmingham, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in busy areas like shopping districts and public transport hubs. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and fake charity collectors. It's advisable to use licensed taxis, keep valuables secure, and remain alert in crowded places to avoid these risks.
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 Colchester to Birmingham

Most Colchester to Birmingham trains use the Colchester to Birmingham New Street station pair, with some services arriving at Birmingham Moor Street. Use this guide to compare Colchester and Birmingham train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Colchester
Arrival train stations in Birmingham

Which Colchester station do trains to Birmingham leave from?

Trains from Colchester to Birmingham leave from Colchester. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Colchester city centre at Colchester [North] station, Station Approach Road, Colchester, Essex, CO1 1XD.
ColchesterColchester [North] station, Station Approach Road, Colchester, Essex, CO1 1XD+44 8450507080WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Colchester from Colchester city centre

Colchester is 1 km from Colchester city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainClacton-on-Sea - London Liverpool Street, Clacton-on-Sea - Colchester, Colchester Town - London Liverpool Street, Colchester Town - Colchester, Walton-on-the-Naze - Colchester · 8m · $1 · every ~5 min
Bus2A, 68, 87, 53, 53A, 52, 51, X20 · 6m · $2 · every ~31 min

Colchester train station facilities and services

Colchester has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Colchester.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Colchester. ATMs are available at Colchester.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Colchester. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0800 028 28 78, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Colchester: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Colchester: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Colchester: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible taxis: Details of nearest taxis are shown on station information poster, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.

Hythe (Essex)Hythe station, Station Road, Hythe, Essex, CO2 8JRParkingAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike Parking
City-centre transport

Getting to Hythe (Essex) from Colchester city centre

Hythe (Essex) is 1 km from Colchester city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainColchester - Clacton-on-Sea, Colchester - Walton-on-the-Naze · 4m · $1 · every ~2 min
Bus54 · 7m · $1 · every ~11 min
54 · 11m · $4 · every ~11 min

Hythe (Essex) train station facilities and services

Hythe (Essex) has practical services for this route, including Parking, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office, and Bike Parking.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Hythe (Essex): Parking.

Bike and car services

Available at Hythe (Essex): Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Hythe (Essex): Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible taxis: Details of nearest taxis are shown on station information poster, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.

Colchester TownColchester Town station, St. Botolphs Circus, Colchester, Essex, CO2 7EFWifiParkingDiningAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Colchester Town from Colchester city centre

Bus43 · 1m · $1 · every ~1 min
68, 55, 68A · 1m · $4 · every ~4 min

Colchester Town train station facilities and services

Colchester Town has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Colchester Town.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Colchester Town.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Colchester Town. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0800 028 28 78.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Colchester Town: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Colchester Town: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Colchester Town: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible taxis: Details of nearest taxis are shown on station information poster, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.

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