- Must visit
Harwich Maritime Museum
Small volunteer-run museum in the High Lighthouse covering Harwich’s seafaring, shipbuilding and lighthouse history, plus tower views.
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Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Colchester to Harwich
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Colchester to Harwich among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $16. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 25m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $16, and a train costs an average of $16.
Distance: 16 miles (27 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|
$16 Average price Cheapest | $8 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
55m Average total duration Fastest 25m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 34m 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 Colchester to Harwich is a train with an average price of $16.
The fastest way to travel from Colchester to Harwich is by train with an average journey time of 25m.
Other travel options to Harwich take longer:
Bus takes on average 1h 20m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Colchester and Harwich including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Colchester to Harwich 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 9m sooner (25m by train vs 34m by car). Tickets start at around $16 compared to roughly $8 in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Direct services run with Greater Anglia.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Compare prices and tickets Colchester to Harwich 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 Colchester to Harwich trains with Omio?
Greater Anglia operates all trains services from Colchester to Harwich.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Colchester to Harwich.
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 Colchester to Harwich.
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 Colchester to Harwich.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Colchester to Harwich
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Colchester to Harwich run on average 13 times per day, taking around 25m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $16 if you book in advance.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:48. The fastest train covers the 16 miles (27 km) distance in 25m.
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 16 miles (27 km) |
Average train duration 25m |
Cheapest ticket price $16 |
Trains per day 13 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 25m |
First train 12:05 AM |
Last train 11:48 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 14 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 Colchester to Harwich trainsGreater Anglia trains will get you between Colchester and Harwich from $16. 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
25m
Cheapest Price
$16
Greater Anglia frequency
13 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 Harwich
Things to do in Harwich
Discover the best of Harwich — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Harwich trip today.
- Recommended
Harwich Redoubt Fort Museum
Local museum inside a former fort with military collections and displays on coastal defence, uniforms and the town’s wartime role.
- Recommended
Harwich Low Lighthouse Museum
Seasonal heritage exhibition space in the old lighthouse, interpreting Trinity House operations and Harwich’s harbour approach lights.
- Must visit
Old Harwich
Harwich’s compact historic core of Georgian and medieval streets, packed with maritime character, listed buildings and walking interest.
- Recommended
Dovercourt Beach
Long shingle-and-sand beach backed by a broad promenade, popular for sea views, walks and classic Essex coast atmosphere.
- Recommended
Dovercourt Bay Lawn
Open green on the seafront known for the pair of lighthouses, wide skies and an easy, family-friendly coastal walking route.
- Gluten-free
Cromer Crab
Cromer crab is a prized East Anglian catch, often served simply dressed to highlight its sweet meat and strong connection to the nearby North Sea coast.
- Gluten-free
Jellied Eels
Jellied eels are a classic Essex and East End specialty made by poaching eels and setting the stock into a savoury jelly, reflecting old estuary food traditions.
Fish And Chips
Fish and chips is a staple in Harwich, usually featuring fresh North Sea cod or haddock in batter with chips, best eaten by the seafront.
The Hanover Inn
Historic quayside pub and restaurant known for seafood, British classics and characterful old-town surroundings with harbour views.
The Stingray
Popular traditional pub serving hearty British meals, local drinks and a relaxed atmosphere in Harwich's historic centre.
Mr Chips
Well-known local spot for classic fish and chips, valued for straightforward seaside fare and casual takeaway dining.
British Pound Sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels can rise in peak ferry season, but dining and local transport are usually manageable versus larger UK tourist cities.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £15-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.50-4 for cappuccino or latte.
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
- £4.50
To the city center
Harwich International -> Harwich Town Railway Station
- Distance
- 2 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on First Bus services in Essex. Buy before boarding or tap your card when you board.
- Harwich International is linked to central Harwich by Greater Anglia trains. Check train times in advance, as local services can be infrequent.
FAQs: Trains from Colchester to Harwich
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Colchester to Harwich 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 Harwich, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Colchester to Harwich can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $16, while the average price is around $16.
The train from Colchester to Harwich takes 25m and runs 13 per day.
The first train from Colchester to Harwich leaves at 12:05 AM.
The distance by train from Colchester to Harwich is 16 miles (27 km).
The last train from Colchester to Harwich leaves at 11:48 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Colchester to Harwich.
Yes, there is a direct train from Colchester to Harwich. This service operates 2 times per day, provided by Greater Anglia.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Colchester to Harwich.
The train station in Colchester that goes to Harwich is Colchester station (COL), which connects to Harwich International (HPQ).
The cheapest way to get from Colchester to Harwich is by train, with a cost of around $16.
The train journey from Colchester to Harwich offers scenic views of the Essex countryside, including picturesque fields and glimpses of the River Stour, providing a pleasant travel experience.
Yes, a day trip from Colchester to Harwich is feasible. The journey takes 25m with a frequency of 8 trips per day, covering a distance of 16 miles (27 km).
Two to three days in Harwich is generally sufficient to explore its historical sites, enjoy the scenic coastline, and experience local attractions.
Yes, you can take the train from Colchester to Harwich.
Since neither Colchester nor Harwich 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 Harwich include London, Ipswich, Norwich, Manningtree, Cambridge.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Colchester to Harwich 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 Harwich, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like ferry terminals and busy streets. It's advisable to keep personal belongings secure and be wary of unsolicited offers from individuals claiming to provide transportation or tours. Additionally, beware of scams involving unofficial taxi services that may overcharge; always use licensed operators. Staying aware of surroundings and verifying ticket purchases through official sources 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 Colchester to Harwich
Most Colchester to Harwich trains use the Colchester to Harwich International station pair, with some services arriving at Harwich Town. Use this guide to compare Colchester and Harwich 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 Harwich
Which Colchester station do trains to Harwich leave from?
Trains from Colchester to Harwich 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 8450507080
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.
Colchester TownColchester Town station, St. Botolphs Circus, Colchester, Essex, CO2 7EF
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.
Hythe (Essex)Hythe station, Station Road, Hythe, Essex, CO2 8JR
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.
Which Harwich station do trains from Colchester arrive at?
Trains from Colchester to Harwich most often arrive at Harwich International. Some services arrive at Harwich Town, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Harwich arrival station.
Harwich InternationalHarwich International station, Parkeston Quay, Harwich, Essex, CO12 4SR
City-centre transport
Getting to Harwich International from Harwich city centre
Harwich International is 2 km from Harwich city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainHarwich Town - Manningtree, Harwich Town - Colchester, Harwich Town - London Liverpool Street · 5m · $1 · every ~2 min
Bus22 · 24m · $4 · every ~3 min
22 · 25m · $4 · every ~3 min
Harwich International train station facilities and services
Harwich International has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Harwich International. ATMs are available at Harwich International.
Tickets and information
Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Helpline Contact: 0800 028 28 78.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Harwich International: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Harwich International: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Harwich International: 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 ticket machines: There are no 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: No.
Harwich TownHarwich Town station, George Street, Harwich, Essex, CO12 3NA
City-centre transport
Getting to Harwich Town from Harwich city centre
Onward travel informationLocal Bus services from station forecourt
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesReplacement transport stop at the front of the station by the bus stop
Harwich Town train station facilities and services
Harwich Town has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Harwich Town.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Harwich Town.
Tickets and information
Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Helpline Contact: 0800 028 28 78.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Harwich Town: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Harwich Town: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Harwich 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.
DovercourtDovercourt station, Kingsway, Harwich, Essex, CO12 3AG+44 8456007245
City-centre transport
Getting to Dovercourt from Harwich city centre
TrainHarwich Town - Manningtree, Harwich Town - Colchester, Harwich Town - London Liverpool Street · 1m · $1 · every ~2 min
Bus3, 22 · 2m · $4 · every ~6 min
Dovercourt train station facilities and services
Dovercourt has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Dovercourt.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Dovercourt.
Tickets and information
Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Helpline Contact: 0800 028 28 78.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Dovercourt: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Dovercourt: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Dovercourt: 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.
Most popular train connections from Colchester
More options for your journey from Colchester to Harwich
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular train connections to Harwich
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