Colchester to Manchester train with Avanti West Coast

Wed, Jun 10
+ Add return
Avanti West Coast
Greater Anglia
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
Avanti West Coast
Greater Anglia
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Colchester to Manchester

Showing times and prices for Jun 10

Cheapest price

$98

Average price

$117

Fastest journey

3 h 49 m

Average duration

4 h 23 m

Trains per day

3

Distance

276 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Colchester to Manchester will cost around $117 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $98.

Fast trains

Of the 3 trains that leave Colchester for Manchester on Wed, Jun 10, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Wed, Jun 10 the direct trains cover the 276 km distance in an average of 4 h 23 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 49 m .

On Wed, Jun 10 the slowest trains will take 4 h 44 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.

  • Avanti West Coast
    8:07 AM4h37
    Colchester
    12:44 PMManchester
    $981One-way
    0 transfers
  • Avanti West Coast
    9:30 AM3h49
    Colchester
    1:19 PMManchester
    $1151One-way
    0 transfers
  • Avanti West Coast
    9:01 AM4h44
    Colchester
    1:45 PMManchester
    $1391One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus, train, and flight for Colchester to Manchester

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Colchester to Manchester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $44. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 3m. 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 $44, and a flight costs an average of $68.

Distance: 171 miles (276 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Bus
Flight
Driving

$125

Average price

$69

Average price

Cheapest

$212

Average price

$90

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

4h 18m

Average total duration

3h 48m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

8h 36m

Average total duration

8h 6m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 3m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 3m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

4h 44m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.3 - 0.7kg

CO2 emissions

0.8 - 1.6kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Avanti West Coast

Most popular train company

National Express

Most popular bus company

British Airways

Most popular airline

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

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 Manchester is a bus with an average price of $69 (€56).

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

A bus is $56 (€45) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Colchester to Manchester costing on average $125 (€102).

A bus is $143 (€116) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Colchester to Manchester costing on average $212 (€172).

The fastest way to travel from Colchester to Manchester is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 3m.

Other travel options to Manchester take longer:

Train takes on average 3h 48m.

Bus takes on average 8h 6m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Colchester and Manchester including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Colchester to Manchester 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 56m sooner (3h 48m by train vs 4h 44m by car). Tickets start at around $125 (€102) compared to roughly $90 (€73) 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 Manchester train times

The table below shows live departures for Colchester to Manchester trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, June 10. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Avanti West Coast8:07 AM Colchester
4h37
12:44 PM Manchester0 transfersDirect
Avanti West Coast9:01 AM Colchester
4h44
1:45 PM Manchester0 transfersDirect
Avanti West Coast9:30 AM Colchester
3h49
1:19 PM Manchester0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Colchester to Manchester by bus, train, or flight

Compare bus, train, and flight 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.

Wed
Jun 10
Thu
Jun 11
Fri
Jun 12
Sat
Jun 13
Sun
Jun 14
Mon
Jun 15
Tue
Jun 16

Why should you book Colchester to Manchester trains with Omio?

Avanti West Coast as well as Greater Anglia offer trains services from Colchester to Manchester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Colchester to Manchester.

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 Greater Anglia to find the best option for your trip from Colchester to Manchester.
  • 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, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Colchester to Manchester.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?

  • 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 Colchester to Manchester.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Colchester to Manchester.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Colchester to Manchester

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Colchester to Manchester run on average 5 times per day, taking around 3h 48m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $78 (€63) but you can travel from only $44 (€36) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:04, the last at 23:57. The fastest train covers the 171 miles (276 km) distance in 3h 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $44 (€36)
Distance
171 miles (276 km)
Average train duration
3h 48m
Cheapest ticket price
$78 (€63)
Trains per day
5
Fastest train
3h 44m
First train
12:04 AM
Last train
11:57 PM
Cheapest Month
Mar
Cheapest Day
Fri
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Sun
Best time to book
56 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 $44 (€36)

Train companies: Avanti West Coast, Greater Anglia from Colchester to Manchester trainsAvanti West Coast, Greater Anglia trains will get you between Colchester and Manchester from $44 (€36). 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
3h 44m
Cheapest Price
$78 (€63)
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

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
5h 13m
Cheapest Price
$91 (€74)
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 Manchester

Things to do in Manchester

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

  • Must visit

Science and Industry Museum

Major museum exploring Manchester’s industrial heritage, science, engineering and transport on the historic Liverpool Road site.

  • Must visit

Manchester Art Gallery

Leading civic gallery with important British art, design, fashion and rotating exhibitions in the city centre.

  • Must visit

Manchester Museum

Large university museum with acclaimed natural history, archaeology and cultural collections after a major redevelopment.

British Pound Sterling

Moderate by UK standards. Budget eats are easy to find, but hotels, drinks, and central dining cost more on weekends and during major events.

Average meal costs

Budget
GBP 8-15 for fast food or a simple cafe meal.
Mid-range
GBP 20-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
Fine dining
GBP 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee
GBP 3-4.50 for a regular coffee.

Tipping culture

Service is often included at 10-12.5% in restaurants; if not, tip about 10% for good service. Round up in taxis. Tipping is not expected for pubs or takeaway, but small change is appreciated.

FAQs: Trains from Colchester to Manchester

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Colchester to Manchester can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $78 (€63), while the average price is around $125 (€102).
The train from Colchester to Manchester takes 3h 44m and runs 5 per day.
The first train from Colchester to Manchester leaves at 12:04 AM.
The distance by train from Colchester to Manchester is 171 miles (276 km).
The last train from Colchester to Manchester leaves at 11:57 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Colchester to Manchester.
There is no direct train service currently available from Colchester to Manchester.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Colchester to Manchester.
The train station in Colchester that goes to Manchester is Colchester station (COL), which connects to Manchester Piccadilly (MAN).
The cheapest way to get from Colchester to Manchester is by bus, with a cost of around $44 (€36).
The train journey from Colchester to Manchester offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, featuring views of the English countryside, including fields and small towns, particularly in the sections between major city stops.
A day trip from Colchester to Manchester is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 44m each way. However, trains run 5 times per day. The distance is 171 miles (276 km).
In Manchester, you can explore Old Trafford, the home of Manchester United, with its tours and museum. Discover the Northern Quarter, known for its independent shops and street art, or enjoy a captivating performance at the Manchester Opera House. For nightlife, check out Deansgate Locks' bars and clubs. Spend a relaxing day at Heaton Park, one of Europe's largest municipal parks. Visit the Manchester Art Gallery, Science and Industry Museum, and see the stunning architecture of Manchester Cathedral. The John Rylands Library offers a look at rare manuscripts, while Castlefield invites leisurely strolls through its historic ruins and canals.
To fully experience Manchester, including its cultural landmarks, museums, and vibrant nightlife, spending 2 to 3 days is typically sufficient.
Yes, you can take the train from Colchester to Manchester.
Since neither Colchester nor Manchester 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 Manchester include Liverpool, Leeds, Sheffield, Newton-le-Willows, Chester.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Colchester to Manchester 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 Manchester, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets, public transport, and popular tourist spots. Common scams include fake charity collectors and overcharging by unofficial taxi drivers. It is advisable to use licensed taxis and keep personal belongings secure to avoid theft. Staying aware of surroundings, particularly at night, helps reduce safety 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 Manchester

Colchester
Manchester
The major train station for departures in Colchester is Colchester. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Colchester for your trip from Colchester to Manchester.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:00 - 22:00 Saturday 05:30 - 21:00 Sunday 06:00 - 21:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Shopping
Shopping
  • Type of shops available: News agent Dry cleaner Passport Photo Booth
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: Premium Bays
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • 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
WC
WC
  • Toilets Location: The toilets are located on all platforms. The accessible (radar key) toilets are located on Platforms 2 and 4
  • National key toilets: Yes
  • Baby changing facilities: Yes
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: Yes
  • Storage location: Situated by the South entrance, and in the main car park by the North entrance. A secure 134-space cycle compound is also available (key fob required, speak to station staff for availability).
  • Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office
  • Helpline Contact: 0800 028 28 78
  • Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens
Public transit options for Colchester
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: Replacement transport stop at the bus stop by main station entrance
Amenities at train station
ParkingParking
AccessibilityAccessibility
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: No
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • 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
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: No
  • Storage location: Platforms
  • Storage CCTV: No
Public transit options for Hythe (Essex)
  • Onward travel information: Local Colchester Town service Buses stop near station
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: Replacement bus services stop at station entrance adjacent to level crossing
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
ParkingParking
DiningDining
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Opening hours: Monday - Friday 06:10 - 20:15 Saturday 07:00 - 18:45 Sunday Closed
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: There is a Council managed car park behind the station
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • 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
WC
WC
  • Toilets Location: Toilets are located alongside the ticket office and only open when the station is staffed.
  • National key toilets: No
  • Baby changing facilities: No
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: Yes
  • Storage location: Within station, forecourt and on platform
  • Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office
  • Helpline Contact: 0800 028 28 78
Public transit options for Colchester Town
  • Onward travel information: Colchester Town Station is around 5 minutes walk from Colchester Bus Station
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: Town Railway Station Bus Stops (stop B) for planned rail replacement only.

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