- Must visit
Colchester Castle Museum
Major museum inside the Norman castle, presenting Roman finds and town history. Essential for understanding Colchester from Iron Age to modern times.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Leicester to Colchester
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
$65
Average ticket price on Sep 20
$147
Fastest journey on Sep 20
3 h 29 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
4 h 4 m
Trains on Sep 20
6
Distance
162 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Leicester to Colchester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Leicester to Colchester will cost around $147 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $65.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Leicester to Colchester without transferring at least 3 times.
EM729800 · C21881+
C36836+
C027627:59 AM4h12Leicester station (LEI)12:11 PMColchester station (COL)$651One-way4 transfers- EM744100 · C21857+
P85919+
P012478:47 AM3h29Leicester station (LEI)12:16 PMColchester station (COL)$1641One-way3 transfers - EM729800 · C21881+P85656+P672057:59 AM4h12Leicester station (LEI)12:11 PMColchester station (COL)$1641One-way3 transfers
- EM729800 · C21881+
Tube from London St Pancras International to Stratford (London)+P012477:59 AM4h17Leicester station (LEI)12:16 PMColchester station (COL)$1641One-way3 transfers - EM744000 · C21856+P67209+P856659:02 AM4h09Leicester station (LEI)1:11 PMColchester station (COL)$1641One-way3 transfers
- EM744100 · C21857+P85919+P012478:47 AM3h29Leicester station (LEI)12:16 PMColchester station (COL)$1641One-way3 transfers
- EM744000 · C21856+P67209+P856659:02 AM4h09Leicester station (LEI)1:11 PMColchester station (COL)$1641One-way3 transfers
- EM729800 · C21881+P85656+P672057:59 AM4h12Leicester station (LEI)12:11 PMColchester station (COL)$1641One-way3 transfers
- EM729800 · C21881+C36836+C027627:59 AM4h12Leicester station (LEI)12:11 PMColchester station (COL)$651One-way4 transfers
- EM729800 · C21881+Tube from London St Pancras International to Stratford (London)+P012477:59 AM4h17Leicester station (LEI)12:16 PMColchester station (COL)$1641One-way3 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Leicester to Colchester
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Leicester to Colchester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $77 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 0m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $77, while a train costs an average of $143.
Distance: 100 miles (162 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$143 Average price | $77 Average price Cheapest | $44 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 0m Average total duration Fastest 2h 30m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 15m Average total duration 4h 45m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 49m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Leicester to Colchester is a bus with an average price of $77.
This is compared to other travel options from Leicester to Colchester:
A bus is $66 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Leicester to Colchester costing on average $143.
The fastest way to travel from Leicester to Colchester is by train with an average journey time of 2h 30m.
Other travel options to Colchester take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 45m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Leicester and Colchester including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Leicester to Colchester 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 19m sooner (2h 30m by train vs 2h 49m by car). Tickets start at around $143 compared to roughly $44 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
Leicester to Colchester train times
The table below shows live departures for Leicester to Colchester trains for today, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 XC023500+P01778 · P67126 | On time 12:10 PM Leicester station (LEI) | 3h49 | 3:59 PM Colchester station (COL) | 2 transfers | |
XC032200+ Y14774+Tube from London Euston to Stratford (London)+P67232 | On time 12:50 PM Leicester station (LEI) | 4h14 | 5:04 PM Colchester station (COL) | 3 transfers | |
XC001300+ C17946+Tube from London Euston to Stratford (London)+P01289 | On time 1:00 PM Leicester station (LEI) | 4h16 | 5:16 PM Colchester station (COL) | 3 transfers | |
| EM715600 · C21538+P67232+P85690 | 1:10 PM Leicester station (LEI) | 3h54 | 5:04 PM Colchester station (COL) | 3 transfers | |
| XC023300+P01781 · P67144 | On time 2:10 PM Leicester station (LEI) | 3h49 | 5:59 PM Colchester station (COL) | 2 transfers | |
| XC001100+C17950+Tube from London Euston to Stratford (London)+P01308 | On time 3:00 PM Leicester station (LEI) | 4h16 | 7:16 PM Colchester station (COL) | 3 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Leicester to Colchester 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.
Sun
Sep 20
Sep 20
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Sep 26
Why should you book Leicester to Colchester trains with Omio?
East Midlands Railway operates all trains services from Leicester to Colchester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Leicester to Colchester.
Why book with Omio vs East Midlands Railway?
- 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 East Midlands Railway with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Leicester to Colchester.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Rome2rio?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Leicester to Colchester.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Leicester to Colchester
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Leicester to Colchester run on average 5 times per day, taking around 2h 30m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $64 but you can travel from only $52 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 04:41, the last at 22:15. The fastest train covers the 100 miles (162 km) distance in 2h 2m.
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 $52
Distance 100 miles (162 km) |
Average train duration 2h 30m |
Cheapest ticket price $64 |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 2h 2m |
First train 4:41 AM |
Last train 10:15 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 1 day |
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 $52
Train companies: East Midlands Railway, CrossCountry from Leicester to Colchester trainsEast Midlands Railway, CrossCountry trains will get you between Leicester and Colchester from $52. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
East Midlands Railway
About
East Midlands Trains is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London to the East Midlands, Yorkshire, and the North West. East Midlands Trains operates a fleet of Class 158, Class 156, Class 170, Class 222 and Class 180 diesel multiple units, as well as Class 222 Meridian electric multiple units. East Midlands Trains also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for East Midlands Trains are London to Nottingham, Sheffield, and Leeds.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average East Midlands Railway Duration
2h 2m
Cheapest East Midlands Railway Price
$64
East Midlands Railway frequency
6 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 piece of hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee. Free for Advance ticket holders
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs must be on lead and require a ticket (£6 for day ticket)
Quiet zone
CrossCountry
About
CrossCountry is a fast-speed train operator in the United Kingdom, offering both express and regional services across the country. Express services, such as the CrossCountry Voyager and XC Trains, provide quick and comfortable journeys with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. Regional services, including the CrossCountry Regional and Regional Express, make more local stops for a leisurely trip. Ticket options include Standard Class and First Class, as well as Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak fares to suit different budgets and schedules. Popular routes include London to Birmingham, Manchester to Edinburgh, and Bristol to Reading.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average CrossCountry Duration
2h 47m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
$65
CrossCountry frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Colchester
Things to do in Colchester
Discover the best of Colchester — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Colchester trip today.
- Recommended
The Military Museum
Award-winning museum on former barracks, covering military life and the Essex Regiment. Strong collections make it a standout for social and army history.
- Recommended
Colchester Natural History Museum
Natural history museum in a former church, with local wildlife, geology, and family displays. A useful stop for learning about Essex's environment.
- Must visit
Castle Park
Historic park around the castle with formal planting, Roman walls, and central lawns. A classic place to relax while exploring the old town.
- Recommended
Dutch Quarter
Charming conservation area of timber-framed buildings and narrow streets, reflecting the town's links with Dutch and Flemish settlers.
- Recommended
High Street
Main shopping and historic street lined with heritage buildings, independent businesses, and civic landmarks. A practical and atmospheric town-centre walk.
- Gluten-free
Colchester Native Oysters
Colchester Native Oysters are famed shellfish from local estuaries, eaten raw or dressed. They are one of Britain’s oldest recorded regional delicacies.
Essex Eel Pie
Essex Eel Pie is a traditional regional pie of chopped eel in rich gravy. It reflects the historic importance of estuary fishing in Essex.
- Vegetarian
Tiptree Jam Tart
Tiptree Jam Tart uses the county’s famous Wilkin & Sons preserves in a simple buttery tart. It is a classic Essex tea-room style dessert.
Kintsu
Well-regarded modern British restaurant serving seasonal tasting-style plates in an intimate, refined atmosphere.
Church Street Tavern
Established seafood restaurant known for oysters, fish and polished service in a smart but relaxed setting near the town centre.
The Cafe at The Minories
Popular casual venue for brunch, coffee and comfort food with a stylish interior and a strong local following.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK: hotels and dining cost less than London, while local buses and casual meals stay fairly manageable for tourists.
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
- £2.50-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Restaurants may add service; if not, tip 10-12% for good service. Taxi fares are often rounded up. Tipping in cafes is optional.
First Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.50
- Day pass
- £4.80
To the city center
Colchester Railway Station -> Colchester Town Centre, Colchester
- Distance
- 2 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Most local buses in Colchester accept contactless card and mobile payments. Buy before boarding in the First Bus app if you want to compare fares.
- Colchester city services are mainly buses rather than tram or metro. Check operator-specific tickets, as fares can vary between bus companies.
FAQs: Trains from Leicester to Colchester
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Leicester to Colchester 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 Colchester, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Leicester to Colchester can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $64, while the average price is around $143.
The train from Leicester to Colchester takes 2h 2m and runs 5 per day.
The distance by train from Leicester to Colchester is 100 miles (162 km).
The first train from Leicester to Colchester leaves at 4:41 AM.
The last train from Leicester to Colchester leaves at 10:15 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Leicester to Colchester.
There is no direct train service currently available from Leicester to Colchester.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Leicester to Colchester.
The train station in Leicester that goes to Colchester is Leicester station (LEI), which connects to Colchester station (COL).
The cheapest way to get from Leicester to Colchester is by bus, with a cost of around $52.
The train journey from Leicester to Colchester offers a mix of urban and rural views, with stretches of scenic countryside, rolling hills, and glimpses of historic towns, though it's more functional than notably picturesque.
A day trip from Leicester to Colchester may not be feasible as the journey takes 2h 2m. Trains run 6 times per day over a distance of 100 miles (162 km).
To fully explore Colchester's historic sites, including Colchester Castle and the Roman ruins, while also enjoying its cultural venues like the Firstsite art gallery and the natural beauty of Castle Park, plan to spend around 2 to 3 days.
Yes, you can take the train from Leicester to Colchester.
Since neither Leicester nor Colchester 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 Colchester include London, Chelmsford, Ipswich, Stratford, Clacton-on-Sea.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Leicester to Colchester 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 Colchester, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in busy areas like the town center and near popular attractions. Common scams include overcharging by taxis that are not licensed and fraudulent street vendors. It's advisable to use official transportation services and remain vigilant in crowded places to avoid these issues.
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 Leicester to Colchester
Most Leicester to Colchester trains use the Leicester to Colchester station pair, with some services arriving at Hythe (Essex). Use this guide to compare Leicester and Colchester train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Leicester
Arrival train stations in Colchester
Which Leicester station do trains to Colchester leave from?
Trains from Leicester to Colchester leave from Leicester. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Leicester city centre at Leicester station, London Road, Leicester, Leicestershire, LE2 0QB.
LeicesterLeicester station, London Road, Leicester, Leicestershire, LE2 0QB+44 8457125678
City-centre transport
Getting to Leicester from Leicester city centre
BusX7 · 4m · $2 · every ~3 min
16 · 7m · every ~6 min
Hop · 11m · $2 · every ~14 min
Leicester train station facilities and services
Leicester has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Leicester.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Leicester. ATMs are available at Leicester.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Leicester. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 08000 11 33 23, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Leicester: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Leicester: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Leicester: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category A access station. There is step free access to the main entrance and lifts to all platforms. Customers with wheelchairs who require assistance on graduated slopes should press the ticket gate 'assistance' button located at the bottom of the stairs near the self service ticket machines. To ensure availability of staff to assist, it is imperative that customers book assistance in advance. This station has tactile paving at the edge of all platforms and at the bottom of all staircases, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this 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: Yes.
Which Colchester station do trains from Leicester arrive at?
Trains from Leicester to Colchester most often arrive at Colchester. Some services arrive at Hythe (Essex), so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Colchester arrival station.
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.
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.
Most popular train connections from Leicester
More options for your journey from Leicester to Colchester
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Colchester and Leicester
Most popular train connections to Colchester
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