- Recommended
Chelmsford Museum
Chelmsford’s main museum covers local history, archaeology, industry, and natural heritage in a restored house and galleries.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Manchester to Chelmsford
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
€80
Average ticket price on Sep 20
€90
Fastest journey on Sep 20
3 h 46 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
4 h 27 m
Trains on Sep 20
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 €90 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €80.
Fast trains
On Sun, Sep 20, we found 4 trains from Manchester to Chelmsford, including 4 direct services.
On Sun, Sep 20 the direct trains cover the 267 km distance in an average of 4 h 27 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 46 m .
On Sun, Sep 20 the slowest trains will take 5 h 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.
10:55 AM3h46Manchester2:41 PMChelmsford€801One-way0 transfers- 5:35 PM4h38Manchester10:13 PMChelmsford€821One-way0 transfers
- 9:10 AM5h00Manchester2:10 PMChelmsford€881One-way0 transfers
- 10:45 AM4h25Manchester3:10 PMChelmsford€1081One-way0 transfers
- 10:55 AM3h46Manchester2:41 PMChelmsford€801One-way0 transfers
- 10:45 AM4h25Manchester3:10 PMChelmsford€1081One-way0 transfers
- 5:35 PM4h38Manchester10:13 PMChelmsford€821One-way0 transfers
- 9:10 AM5h00Manchester2:10 PMChelmsford€881One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, flight, and bus for Manchester to Chelmsford
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Manchester to Chelmsford among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of €117 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 34m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of €117, while a flight costs an average of €346.
Distance: 165 miles (267 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
€117 Average price Cheapest | €346 Average price | €75 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 34m Average total duration Fastest 3h 4m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 54m Average total duration 1h 54m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 4h 17m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.8 - 1.6kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline | 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 Manchester to Chelmsford is a train with an average price of €117.
This is compared to other travel options from Manchester to Chelmsford:
A train is €229 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Manchester to Chelmsford costing on average €346.
The fastest way to travel from Manchester to Chelmsford is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 54m.
Other travel options to Chelmsford take longer:
Train takes on average 3h 4m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Manchester and Chelmsford including taking a train, flight, and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Manchester to Chelmsford 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 1h 13m sooner (3h 4m by train vs 4h 17m by car). Tickets start at around €117 compared to roughly €75 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
Manchester to Chelmsford train times
The table below shows live departures for Manchester to Chelmsford 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5:15 AM Manchester | 4h12 | 9:27 AM Chelmsford | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:54 AM Manchester | 3h33 | 11:27 AM Chelmsford | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:54 AM Manchester | 3h33 | 12:27 PM Chelmsford | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:34 AM Manchester | 4h26 | 2:00 PM Chelmsford | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Manchester to Chelmsford by train, flight, or bus
Compare train, flight, and bus prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Why should you book Manchester to Chelmsford trains with Omio?
Avanti West Coast as well as Transport for Wales, Northern Trains Limited, TransPennine Express and more offer 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?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Avanti West Coast, but also compare tickets for the likes of Transport for Wales, Northern Trains Limited or TransPennine Express to find the best option for your trip from Manchester to Chelmsford.
- 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.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Manchester to Chelmsford
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Manchester to Chelmsford run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 4m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €67 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 51m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Distance 165 miles (267 km) |
Average train duration 3h 4m |
Cheapest ticket price €67 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 2h 51m |
First train 12:15 AM |
Last train 10:11 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 49 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Train companies: Avanti West Coast from Manchester to Chelmsford trainsAvanti West Coast trains will get you between Manchester and Chelmsford from €67. 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 Avanti West Coast Duration
2h 51m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
€67
Avanti West Coast frequency
6 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
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.
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.
Train ticket prices from Manchester to Chelmsford can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €67, while the average price is around €117.
The train from Manchester to Chelmsford takes 2h 51m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from Manchester to Chelmsford leaves at 12:15 AM.
The distance by train from Manchester to Chelmsford is 165 miles (267 km).
The last train from Manchester to Chelmsford leaves at 10:11 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Manchester to Chelmsford.
There is no direct train service currently available from Manchester to Chelmsford.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Manchester to Chelmsford.
The train station in Manchester that goes to Chelmsford is Manchester Piccadilly (MAN), which connects to Chelmsford station (CHM).
The cheapest way to get from Manchester to Chelmsford is by train, with a cost of around €67.
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.
A day trip from Manchester to Chelmsford is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 51m. Trains operate 6 times per day for this route, covering a distance of 165 miles (267 km).
A visit to Chelmsford can typically be enjoyed in 1 to 2 days, allowing time to explore its historic sites, parks, and local attractions.
Yes, you can take the train from Manchester to Chelmsford.
Since neither Manchester nor Chelmsford 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 Chelmsford include Stratford, London, Ipswich, Romford, Colchester.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Manchester to Chelmsford 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 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.
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 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.
ManchesterManchester Piccadilly, Piccadilly Station Approach, Greater, Manchester M60 7RA, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Manchester from Manchester city centre
TRUE
Manchester train station facilities and services
Manchester has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Multiple food outlets and cafes available.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free public Wi-Fi available in the station. ATMs are several ATMs located near the entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Manchester.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Manchester: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester: Step-free access throughout the station.
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.
Most popular train connections from Manchester
More options for your journey from Manchester to Chelmsford
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Chelmsford and Manchester
Most popular train connections to Chelmsford
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