- Recommended
Chelmsford Museum
Chelmsford’s main museum covers local history, archaeology, industry, and natural heritage in a restored house and galleries.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Manchester to Chelmsford
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 04
- Cheapest price on Nov 04
- €105
- Average ticket price on Nov 04
- €148
- Fastest journey on Nov 04
- 3 h 33 m
- Average journey duration on Nov 04
- 3 h 38 m
- Trains on Nov 04
- 4
- Distance
- 267 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Manchester to Chelmsford is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Manchester to Chelmsford will cost around €148 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €105.
Fast trains
On Wed, Nov 04, we found 4 trains from Manchester to Chelmsford, including 4 direct services.
On Wed, Nov 04 the direct trains cover the 267 km distance in an average of 3 h 38 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 33 m .
On Wed, Nov 04 the slowest trains will take 3 h 45 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.
9:54 AM 3h33 Manchester 1:27 PM Chelmsford €105 1 One-way 0 transfers8:54 AM 3h33 Manchester 12:27 PM Chelmsford €108 1 One-way 0 transfers7:14 PM 3h45 Manchester 10:59 PM Chelmsford €109 1 One-way 0 transfers6:29 AM 3h39 Manchester 10:08 AM Chelmsford €269 1 One-way 0 transfers
9:54 AM 3h33 Manchester 1:27 PM Chelmsford €105 1 One-way 0 transfers8:54 AM 3h33 Manchester 12:27 PM Chelmsford €108 1 One-way 0 transfers6:29 AM 3h39 Manchester 10:08 AM Chelmsford €269 1 One-way 0 transfers7:14 PM 3h45 Manchester 10:59 PM Chelmsford €109 1 One-way 0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from Manchester to Chelmsford
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Manchester to Chelmsford run on average 5 times per day, taking around 3h 1m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €59 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 00:15, the last at 22:11. The fastest train covers the 165 miles (267 km) distance in 2h 45m.
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
Plan this route
Journey facts
- Distance165 miles (267 km)
- Average train duration3h 1m
- Cheapest ticket price€59
- Trains per day5
- Fastest train2h 45m
- First train12:15 AM
- Last train10:11 PM
- Cheapest MonthMay
- Cheapest DayFri
- High SeasonJan - Mar
- Low SeasonOct - Dec
- Busiest DayThu
- Least Busy DayThu
- Best time to book49 days
Understand & plan this route
Explore this journey
Book with confidence
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
Frequently asked questions about your Manchester to Chelmsford trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Manchester to Chelmsford.
Train ticket prices from Manchester to Chelmsford can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €59, while the average price is around €117.
The train from Manchester to Chelmsford takes 2h 45m and runs 5 per day.
The distance by train from Manchester to Chelmsford is 165 miles (267 km).
The first train from Manchester to Chelmsford leaves at 12:15 AM.
The last train from Manchester to Chelmsford leaves at 10:11 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Manchester to Chelmsford.
Live departures
Manchester to Chelmsford train times
The table below shows live departures for Manchester to Chelmsford trains for today, Tuesday, November 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:54 AM Manchester | 3h33 | 12:27 PM Chelmsford | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:54 AM Manchester | 3h33 | 1:27 PM Chelmsford | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Manchester to Chelmsford trains with Omio?
Avanti West Coast operates all trains services from Manchester to Chelmsford.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Manchester to Chelmsford.
Why book with Omio vs Avanti West Coast?
- 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 train, flight and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Manchester to Chelmsford.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, flight and bus to find the ideal travel option from Manchester to Chelmsford.
Train companies
Train companies from Manchester to Chelmsford
Trains from Manchester to Chelmsford with Avanti West Coast. High-speed trains available on this route with Avanti West Coast. Use the details below to compare onboard facilities.
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 Avanti West Coast Duration
2h 45m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
€59
Avanti West Coast frequency
5 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
First Class: Complimentary meals and drinks. Standard Class: Onboard shop with drinks and snacks
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Standard Class: Optional reservation for £8-12
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/alighting available
Pets
Small pets free in carriers. Dogs £30 per single journey. Guide dogs free
Quiet zone
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Manchester and Chelmsford
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Manchester to Chelmsford.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Manchester to Chelmsford.
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.
Complete guide to Chelmsford
Things to do in Chelmsford
Discover the best of Chelmsford — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Chelmsford trip today.
- Recommended
Sandford Mill Museum
Compact museum preserving the story of radio, radar, and electronics pioneers linked to Marconi’s world-changing work in Chelmsford.
Essex Regiment Museum
Volunteer-run military museum displaying Essex Regiment collections, medals, uniforms, and stories from local service history.
- Recommended
Hylands Estate
Major historic parkland and gardens with walking trails, seasonal events, and one of Chelmsford’s most popular open spaces.
- Recommended
Central Park
Central city park with lawns, events, riverside paths, and easy access from shopping streets and the station.
- Recommended
Writtle Green
Traditional village green near the city, known for duck pond views, old cottages, and a classic Essex setting.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Tiptree Jam
Tiptree jam is a celebrated Essex preserve made from local fruit. It is a classic breakfast staple and a long-standing symbol of the county’s food heritage.
- Vegetarian
Essex Seed Cake
Essex seed cake is a traditional county bake flavoured with caraway seeds. It is especially linked with local tea tables and older Essex home baking.
- Gluten-free
Maldon Oysters
Maldon oysters from the Essex coast are prized for their clean, briny flavour. They reflect the county’s historic oyster fisheries and seafood culture.
The Blue Strawberry
Refined British tasting menus in an elegant setting. It is one of Chelmsford’s best-known fine dining destinations for seasonal cooking.
Acanteen
Established city-centre venue for Turkish and Mediterranean dishes, especially grilled meats and mezze. Warm, busy atmosphere and dependable service.
Middletons Steakhouse & Grill
Stylish modern British restaurant and bar known for steaks, grills, and cocktails. Lively but polished atmosphere in central Chelmsford.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for UK travel. Hotels and dining cost less than London, while local transit and casual meals are fairly manageable for most visitors.
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
- £3-4.50 for cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up for taxis, and cafe tipping is optional.
First Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £4.70
To the city center
Chelmsford Railway Station -> High Chelmer Shopping Centre, Chelmsford
- Distance
- 0.5 km
- Travel time
- 6 min
- Contactless payment is accepted on First Essex buses in Chelmsford. Tap your card or device when you board.
- Chelmsford has no tram or metro system; local public transport is mainly buses plus Greater Anglia rail services.
Plan your visit to Chelmsford
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Chelmsford.
The train journey from Manchester to Chelmsford offers a mix of urban and countryside views, with sections passing through the scenic landscapes of the Peak District and rural parts of East Anglia, providing a pleasant travel experience.
Popular day trips by train from Chelmsford include Stratford, London, Ipswich, Romford, Colchester.
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 Chelmsford, travelers should be aware of occasional pickpocketing in crowded areas and be cautious when using unofficial taxi services to avoid overcharging. It's advisable to keep personal belongings secure and use licensed transportation options. There are no widespread scams specific to Chelmsford, but general vigilance against common travel scams is recommended.
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.
FAQs: Trains from Manchester to Chelmsford
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Manchester to Chelmsford 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 Chelmsford, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Yes, you can take the train from Manchester to Chelmsford.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Manchester to Chelmsford
Most Manchester to Chelmsford trains use the Manchester Piccadilly to Chelmsford station pair. Use this guide to compare Manchester and Chelmsford train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Manchester
Arrival train stations in Chelmsford
Which Manchester station do trains to Chelmsford leave from?
Trains from Manchester to Chelmsford leave from Manchester Piccadilly. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Manchester city centre at Piccadilly Station Approach, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M60 7RA, United Kingdom.
Manchester PiccadillyPiccadilly Station Approach, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M60 7RA, United Kingdom+44 3457114141
City-centre transport
Getting to Manchester Piccadilly from Manchester city centre
Bus201, 203, 202, 205 · 1m · €2 · every ~56 min
TramBlue Line, Red Line, Pink Line, Purple Line, Yellow Line · 3m · €2 · every ~47 min
Manchester Piccadilly train station facilities and services
Manchester Piccadilly has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Burger King, Caffè Nero, Carluccio’s, Hotel Chocolat, Starbucks, The Pasty Shop, Costa Coffee, Pret a Manger, Upper Crust, McDonald's, & more
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Pay as you go Wi-Fi is available through BT Wi-Fi. ATMs are there are ATM machines on the main concourse, Platform 10 and on the mezzanine level.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Sat: 04:30 - 22:30, Sun: 07:00 - 22:30. Information desks are located near the Fairfield Street entrance on the mezzanine level.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is operated by Excess Baggage Co. Llocated between Platforms 10 and 11 and open daily from 08:00 to 21:00.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Manchester Piccadilly: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Manchester Piccadilly: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester Piccadilly: There is step-free access throughout the station. Ramps for train access and wheelchairs are also available.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Manchester - Piccadilly, Premier Inn Manchester City, Staycity Aparthotels - Manchester Piccadilly.
Manchester Oxford RoadManchester Oxford Road station, Station Approach, Oxford Road, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M1 6FU
City-centre transport
Getting to Manchester Oxford Road from Manchester city centre
Bus42A, 43, 42, 101, 85, 85A, 111, 263, 142, 143, 87, 41, 18, 86, 15, 250, 42B, 42C, 103, 102 · 5m · €2 · every ~224 min
T1 · 1h 7m
Manchester Oxford Road train station facilities and services
Manchester Oxford Road has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Manchester Oxford Road.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Manchester Oxford Road.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Manchester Oxford Road: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Manchester Oxford Road: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester Oxford Road: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Category B Station, please note there are no tactile pavings at this station - There are two lifts at the Piccadilly end of platform 4 and 2/3 which connect the concourse area platform 4 and 5 with 2/3. Note: there is no lift access to platform 1 at all, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Accepts Cash & Cards, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Manchester AirportManchester Airport station, Malaga Avenue, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M90 3RR
City-centre transport
Getting to Manchester Airport from Manchester city centre
Manchester Airport is 13 km from Manchester city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainLiverpool Lime Street - Manchester Airport, Manchester Piccadilly - Crewe, Blackpool North - Manchester Airport, Barrow-in-Furness - Manchester Airport, Windermere - Manchester Airport, Manchester Piccadilly - Wilmslow, Manchester Piccadilly - Manchester Airport, Millom - Manchester Airport, Lancaster - Manchester Airport, Manchester Oxford Road - Manchester Airport, Corkickle - Manchester Airport, Preston - Manchester Airport · 17m · €5 · every ~9 min
BusUk980, Uk076, Uk074, Uk072, Ukn23 · 30m · €1 · every ~2 min
43, 103 · 1h 2m · €2 · every ~29 min
43, 103 · 1h 6m · €2 · every ~29 min
TramNavy Line · 51m · €4 · every ~16 min
Navy Line · 54m · €4 · every ~8 min
Manchester Airport train station facilities and services
Manchester Airport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Manchester Airport.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Manchester Airport. ATMs are available at Manchester Airport.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Manchester Airport. Information desks are information available from staff: ,Yes - from help point,Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0800 107 2149, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Manchester Airport: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Manchester Airport: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester Airport: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: re Step free access is provided from the Ground Transport Interchange to all platforms via lifts or ramps. This station is staffed for all services. This station is Category A. Station staff can provide assistance from Meeting Point 1 (adjacent to the Station Booking Office) and throughout the railway station, and with boarding and alighting the train. Customers requiring assistance should make themselves known to station staff no less than 20 minutes prior to the departure time of their train. Customers requiring assistance to access other services or to connect with terminals should request this from their airline or Manchester Airport Group. Assistance can be requested in advance by contacting the TransPennine Express Assisted Travel Team on 0800 107 2149 (18001 prefix for TextRelay). Please be aware that some platforms at this station have no or only partial tactile paving on the platform edge, Accessible public telephones: In the station cafe on platforms 2 and 3, 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 Chelmsford station do trains from Manchester arrive at?
Trains from Manchester to Chelmsford arrive at Chelmsford. Chelmsford is from Chelmsford city centre.
ChelmsfordChelmsford station, Duke Street, Chelmsford, Essex, CM1 1HT+44 8450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Chelmsford from Chelmsford city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesReplacement transport stop at the bus stop on Victoria Road by station entrance
Chelmsford train station facilities and services
Chelmsford has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Chelmsford.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Chelmsford. ATMs are available at Chelmsford.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Chelmsford.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Chelmsford: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Chelmsford: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Chelmsford: 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.
Train stations for Manchester to Chelmsford
Check train stations information for Manchester and Chelmsford, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Manchester that goes to Chelmsford is Manchester Piccadilly, which connects to Chelmsford.
Most popular train connections from Manchester
Most popular trains to and from Chelmsford and Manchester
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
