London to Colchester train with Greater Anglia

Wed, Aug 26
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Greater Anglia
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
Greater Anglia
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from London to Colchester

Showing times and prices for Aug 26

Cheapest price

$20

Average price

$42

Fastest journey

45 m

Average duration

46 m

Trains per day

65

Distance

83 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from London to Colchester will cost around $42 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $20.

Fast trains

Of the 65 trains that leave London for Colchester on Wed, Aug 26, 63 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Wed, Aug 26 the direct trains cover the 83 km distance in an average of 46 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 45 m .

On Wed, Aug 26 the slowest trains will take 46 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.

  • Greater AngliaP02948
    5:23 AM1h06
    London Liverpool Street (LST)
    6:29 AMColchester station (COL)
    $201One-way
    0 transfers
  • Greater AngliaP66713 · P66912
    5:36 AM1h28
    London Liverpool Street (LST)
    7:04 AMColchester station (COL)
    $221One-way
    1 transfer
  • Greater AngliaP66912
    6:02 AM1h02
    London Liverpool Street (LST)
    7:04 AMColchester station (COL)
    $221One-way
    0 transfers
  • Greater AngliaP01272
    2:30 PM0h47
    London Liverpool Street (LST)
    3:17 PMColchester station (COL)
    $251One-way
    0 transfers
  • Greater AngliaP01245
    11:30 AM0h47
    London Liverpool Street (LST)
    12:17 PMColchester station (COL)
    $271One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for London to Colchester

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from London to Colchester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $15. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 52m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $15, and a bus costs an average of $9.

Distance: 51 miles (83 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$30

Average price

Cheapest

$43

Average price

$40

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

1h 22m

Average total duration

Fastest

52m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 45m

Average total duration

2h 15m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 48m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Greater Anglia

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 London to Colchester is a train with an average price of $30.

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

A train is $13 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from London to Colchester costing on average $43.

The fastest way to travel from London to Colchester is by train with an average journey time of 52m.

Other travel options to Colchester take longer:

Bus takes on average 2h 15m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between London and Colchester including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from London to Colchester among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.

The journey is about 56m faster (52m by train vs 1h 48m by car) and roughly $10 cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($30 vs $40). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.

Direct services run with Greater Anglia.

Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

London to Colchester train times

The table below shows live departures for London to Colchester trains for today, Tuesday, August 25. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Greater AngliaP012036:00 AM London Liverpool Street (LST)
0h47
6:47 AM Colchester station (COL)0 transfersDirect
Greater AngliaP669126:02 AM London Liverpool Street (LST)
1h02
7:04 AM Colchester station (COL)0 transfersDirect
Greater AngliaP012086:25 AM London Liverpool Street (LST)
0h53
7:18 AM Colchester station (COL)0 transfersDirect
Greater AngliaP660336:30 AM London Liverpool Street (LST)
1h00
7:30 AM Colchester station (COL)0 transfersDirect
Greater AngliaP012117:00 AM London Liverpool Street (LST)
0h46
7:46 AM Colchester station (COL)0 transfersDirect
Greater AngliaP671927:04 AM London Liverpool Street (LST)
1h03
8:07 AM Colchester station (COL)0 transfersDirect
Greater AngliaP669187:16 AM London Liverpool Street (LST)
0h57
8:13 AM Colchester station (COL)0 transfersDirect
Greater AngliaP012157:30 AM London Liverpool Street (LST)
0h47
8:17 AM Colchester station (COL)0 transfersDirect
Greater AngliaP010717:36 AM London Liverpool Street (LST)
1h04
8:40 AM Colchester station (COL)0 transfersDirect
Greater AngliaP012188:00 AM London Liverpool Street (LST)
0h48
8:48 AM Colchester station (COL)0 transfersDirect
Greater AngliaP671988:02 AM London Liverpool Street (LST)
1h04
9:06 AM Colchester station (COL)0 transfersDirect
Greater AngliaP669298:16 AM London Liverpool Street (LST)
0h57
9:13 AM Colchester station (COL)0 transfersDirect
Greater AngliaP012208:30 AM London Liverpool Street (LST)
0h47
9:17 AM Colchester station (COL)0 transfersDirect
Greater AngliaP010758:36 AM London Liverpool Street (LST)
1h03
9:39 AM Colchester station (COL)0 transfersDirect
Greater AngliaP012269:00 AM London Liverpool Street (LST)
0h46
9:46 AM Colchester station (COL)0 transfersDirect
Greater AngliaP0125012:00 PM London Liverpool Street (LST)
0h46
12:46 PM Colchester station (COL)0 transfersDirect
Greater AngliaP0134112:02 PM London Liverpool Street (LST)
1h02
1:04 PM Colchester station (COL)0 transfersDirect
Greater AngliaP6695012:18 PM London Liverpool Street (LST)
0h55
1:13 PM Colchester station (COL)0 transfersDirect
Greater AngliaP0125412:30 PM London Liverpool Street (LST)
0h46
1:16 PM Colchester station (COL)0 transfersDirect
Greater AngliaP0108712:36 PM London Liverpool Street (LST)
1h01
1:37 PM Colchester station (COL)0 transfersDirect
Greater AngliaP012591:00 PM London Liverpool Street (LST)
0h46
1:46 PM Colchester station (COL)0 transfersDirect
Greater AngliaP012854:00 PM London Liverpool Street (LST)
0h45
4:45 PM Colchester station (COL)0 transfersDirect
Greater AngliaP672314:02 PM London Liverpool Street (LST)
1h03
5:05 PM Colchester station (COL)0 transfersDirect
Greater AngliaP669804:14 PM London Liverpool Street (LST)
0h57
5:11 PM Colchester station (COL)0 transfersDirect
Greater AngliaP012884:30 PM London Liverpool Street (LST)
0h47
5:17 PM Colchester station (COL)0 transfersDirect
Greater AngliaP011024:32 PM London Liverpool Street (LST)
1h02
5:34 PM Colchester station (COL)0 transfersDirect
Greater AngliaP669844:42 PM London Liverpool Street (LST)
0h57
5:39 PM Colchester station (COL)0 transfersDirect
Wednesday, August 26
Greater AngliaP6664212:18 AM London Liverpool Street (LST)
1h18
1:36 AM Colchester station (COL)0 transfersDirect
Greater AngliaP0113212:46 AM London Liverpool Street (LST)
1h11
1:57 AM Colchester station (COL)0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets London to Colchester 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.

Wed
Aug 26
Thu
Aug 27
Fri
Aug 28
Sat
Aug 29
Sun
Aug 30
Mon
Aug 31
Tue
Sep 01

Why should you book London to Colchester trains with Omio?

Greater Anglia operates all trains services from London to Colchester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from London to Colchester.

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 London to Colchester.

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 London to Colchester.

How far in advance should I book train tickets from London to Colchester?

The best time to book your train from London to Colchester is 35 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the London to Colchester route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from London to Colchester per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from London to Colchester.

Journey information

Overview: Train from London to Colchester

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from London to Colchester run on average 11 times per day, taking around 52m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $15 but you can travel from only $9 by bus.

There are 11 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 51 miles (83 km) distance in 46m.

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 $9
Distance
51 miles (83 km)
Average train duration
52m
Cheapest ticket price
$15
Trains per day
11
Direct trains
11
Fastest train
46m
First train
12:01 AM
Last train
11:58 PM
Cheapest Month
Jul
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Apr - Jun
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Mon
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $9

Train companies: Greater Anglia from London to Colchester trainsGreater Anglia trains will get you between London and Colchester from $9. 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
46m
Cheapest Price
$15
Greater Anglia frequency
11 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 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

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.

FAQs: Trains from London to Colchester

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from London 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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from London to Colchester can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $15, while the average price is around $30.
The train from London to Colchester takes 46m and runs 11 per day.
The distance by train from London to Colchester is 51 miles (83 km).
The first train from London to Colchester leaves at 12:01 AM.
The last train from London to Colchester leaves at 11:58 PM.
There is no high speed train available from London to Colchester.
Yes, there is a direct train from London to Colchester. This service operates 11 times per day, provided by Greater Anglia.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from London to Colchester.
The train station in London that goes to Colchester is London Liverpool Street (LST), which connects to Colchester station (COL).
The cheapest way to get from London to Colchester is by bus, with a cost of around $9.
The train journey from London to Colchester offers views of the English countryside, featuring picturesque landscapes and charming small towns, though it is not widely renowned for being exceptionally scenic compared to other routes.
Yes, a day trip from London to Colchester is feasible. The journey takes 46m, covering a distance of 51 miles (83 km), with trains running 10 times per day.
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 London to Colchester.
Since neither London 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 Chelmsford, Ipswich, Stratford, Clacton-on-Sea, Bury Saint Edmunds.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from London 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 London to Colchester

Most London to Colchester trains use the London Liverpool Street to Colchester station pair, with some services arriving at Hythe (Essex). Use this guide to compare London and Colchester train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in London
Arrival train stations in Colchester

Which London station do trains to Colchester leave from?

Trains from London to Colchester leave from London Liverpool Street. The station is 1 miles (3 km) from London city centre at London Liverpool Street station, Bishopsgate, London, Greater London, EC2M 7PY.
London Liverpool StreetLondon Liverpool Street station, Bishopsgate, London, Greater London, EC2M 7PY+44 345 711 4141WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to London Liverpool Street from London city centre

London Liverpool Street is 3 km from London city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainElizabeth · 11m · $2 · every ~30 min
BusN26, N550, N551 · 22m · $5 · every ~8 min
A8 · 23m · $1 · every ~11 min
76 · 26m · $2 · every ~27 min
SubwayCentral · 8m · $4 · every ~94 min

London Liverpool Street train station facilities and services

London Liverpool Street has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at London Liverpool Street.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at London Liverpool Street. ATMs are available at London Liverpool Street.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at London Liverpool Street. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from information point,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 London Liverpool Street: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at London Liverpool Street: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at London Liverpool Street: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: All the platforms are on the same level. There are lifts and escalators available to get to the Liverpool Street bus station and shops, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available at the taxi rank along platform 10 (during station opening hours) and outside the station entrance (during station closing hours), Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Monday - Sunday 24 Hours a Day, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.

Heathrow Terminals 2 & 3Heathrow Airport Terminals 2 & 3 station, Inner Ring Road, Heathrow Airport, Greater London, TW6 1WDWifiShoppingParkingATMAccessibilityWCLost and Found OfficeTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Heathrow Terminals 2 & 3 from London city centre

Heathrow Terminals 2 & 3 is 23 km from London city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainElizabeth, London Paddington - Heathrow Terminal 4, London Paddington - Heathrow Terminal 5 · 21m · $43 · every ~3 min
Elizabeth · 41m · $21 · every ~8 min
BusUkn14, Ukn02, Uk043, Uk042, Ukn23, Ukxn10, Ukn49 · 50m · $2 · every ~1 min
Ukxn10 · 50m · $4 · every ~1 min
Ukxn10 · 50m · $4 · every ~1 min
N9 · 1h 11m · $2 · every ~4 min
SubwayPiccadilly · 47m · $26 · every ~27 min

Heathrow Terminals 2 & 3 train station facilities and services

Heathrow Terminals 2 & 3 has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, and Ticket Office.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Heathrow Terminals 2 & 3. ATMs are available at Heathrow Terminals 2 & 3.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Heathrow Terminals 2 & 3.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Heathrow Terminals 2 & 3: Parking, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Heathrow Terminals 2 & 3: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Level access to platforms, lifts to airport facilities. Ticket Office is step free. Wheelchair users can board trains with ease as the platforms are level with the trains, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: No, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.

Heathrow Terminal 5Heathrow Airport Terminal 5 station, Terminal 5, Heathrow Airport, Greater London, TW6 2GAParkingAccessibilityLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Heathrow Terminal 5 from London city centre

Heathrow Terminal 5 is 25 km from London city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainElizabeth, London Paddington - Heathrow Terminal 5 · 30m · $43
Elizabeth, London Paddington - Heathrow Terminal 5 · 30m · $43
BusUk061 · 1h 5m · $4 · every ~1 min
035, 025, 030, 032, A40 · 1h 10m · $6 · every ~12 min
025, 030, 032, 035, A40 · 1h 10m · $6 · every ~12 min
N9 · 1h 24m · $2 · every ~4 min
SubwayPiccadilly · 53m · $29 · every ~27 min

Heathrow Terminal 5 train station facilities and services

Heathrow Terminal 5 has practical services for this route, including Parking, Accessibility, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, and Ticket Office.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Heathrow Terminal 5.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Heathrow Terminal 5: Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Heathrow Terminal 5: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Level access to platforms, lifts to airport facilities. Ticket Office is step free. Wheelchair users can board trains with ease as the platforms are level with the trains, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.

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