Manchester to Chelmsford train with Avanti West Coast

Wed, Aug 05
+ Add return
Avanti West Coast
Transport for Wales
Northern Trains Limited
TransPennine Express
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
Avanti West Coast
Transport for Wales
Northern Trains Limited
TransPennine Express
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Manchester to Chelmsford

Showing times and prices for Aug 05

Cheapest price

$128

Average price

$181

Fastest journey

3 h 33 m

Average duration

3 h 38 m

Trains per day

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 $181 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $128.

Fast trains

Of the 4 trains that leave Manchester for Chelmsford on Wed, Aug 05, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Wed, Aug 05 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, Aug 05 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.

  • Avanti West Coast
    9:54 AM3h33
    Manchester
    1:27 PMChelmsford
    $1281One-way
    0 transfers
  • Avanti West Coast
    8:54 AM3h33
    Manchester
    12:27 PMChelmsford
    $1321One-way
    0 transfers
  • Avanti West Coast
    7:14 PM3h45
    Manchester
    10:59 PMChelmsford
    $1331One-way
    0 transfers
  • Avanti West Coast
    6:29 AM3h39
    Manchester
    10:08 AMChelmsford
    $3301One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight 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 bus with prices starting from $77. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 15m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $77, and a flight costs an average of $91.

Distance: 165 miles (267 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Flight
Bus
Driving

$129

Average price

$205

Average price

$77

Average price

Cheapest

$92

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 32m

Average total duration

3h 2m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 15m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 15m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

8h 48m

Average total duration

8h 18m

Onboard

+

30m

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

-

CO2 emissions

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

The cheapest way to travel from Manchester to Chelmsford is a bus with an average price of $77.

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

A bus is $52 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Manchester to Chelmsford costing on average $129.

A bus is $128 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Manchester to Chelmsford costing on average $205.

The fastest way to travel from Manchester to Chelmsford is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 15m.

Other travel options to Chelmsford take longer:

Train takes on average 3h 2m.

Bus takes on average 8h 18m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Manchester and Chelmsford including taking a train, bus, and flight.
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 15m sooner (3h 2m by train vs 4h 17m by car). Tickets start at around $129 compared to roughly $92 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 tomorrow, Wednesday, August 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Avanti West Coast6:29 AM Manchester
3h39
10:08 AM Chelmsford0 transfersDirect
Avanti West Coast8:54 AM Manchester
3h33
12:27 PM Chelmsford0 transfersDirect
Avanti West Coast9:54 AM Manchester
3h33
1:27 PM Chelmsford0 transfersDirect
Avanti West Coast7:14 PM Manchester
3h45
10:59 PM Chelmsford0 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, bus, or flight

Compare train, bus, and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.

Wed
Aug 05
Thu
Aug 06
Fri
Aug 07
Sat
Aug 08
Sun
Aug 09
Mon
Aug 10
Tue
Aug 11

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, bus and flight 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, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Manchester to Chelmsford.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Manchester to Chelmsford

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Manchester to Chelmsford run on average 7 times per day, taking around 3h 2m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $78 but you can travel from only $77 by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:15, the last at 22:11. The fastest train covers the 165 miles (267 km) distance in 3h 33m.

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 $77
Distance
165 miles (267 km)
Average train duration
3h 2m
Cheapest ticket price
$78
Trains per day
7
Fastest train
3h 33m
First train
12:15 AM
Last train
10:11 PM
Cheapest Month
Sep
Cheapest Day
Fri
High Season
Jul - Sep
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $77

Train companies: Avanti West Coast, Transport for Wales, Northern Trains Limited, TransPennine Express from Manchester to Chelmsford trainsAvanti West Coast, Transport for Wales, Northern Trains Limited, TransPennine Express trains will get you between Manchester and Chelmsford from $77. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Avanti West Coast

About
Avanti West Coast is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates high-speed trains between London and major cities in the UK, including Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow and Edinburgh. The company offers a range of ticket types, including Standard, First Class and Advance tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drinks. The most popular routes for Avanti West Coast are London to Birmingham, London to Manchester and London to Glasgow. The company operates a fleet of Pendolino and Super Voyager trains, which offer a smooth and comfortable journey.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 33m
Cheapest Price
$78
Avanti West Coast frequency
17 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

Transport for Wales

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 3m
Cheapest Price
$245
Transport for Wales frequency
9 a day

Northern Trains Limited

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 11m
Cheapest Price
$246
Northern Trains Limited frequency
5 a day

TransPennine Express

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
9h 21m
Cheapest Price
$265
TransPennine Express frequency
1 a day

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

Chelmsford Museum

Chelmsford’s main museum covers local history, archaeology, industry, and natural heritage in a restored house and galleries.

  • 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.

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.

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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Manchester to Chelmsford can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $78, while the average price is around $129.
The train from Manchester to Chelmsford takes 3h 33m and runs 7 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 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 bus, with a cost of around $77.
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 3h 33m. 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 3457114141WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
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 3RRWifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation Desk
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 · $6 · 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 · $5 · every ~16 min
Navy Line · 54m · $5 · 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.

Manchester VictoriaManchester Victoria station, Station Approach, Todd Street, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M3 1WYParkingDiningAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Manchester Victoria from Manchester city centre

TrainManchester Airport - Redcar Central, Manchester Airport - Saltburn, Manchester Airport - York, Manchester Piccadilly - York, Manchester Piccadilly - Redcar Central, Manchester Airport - Darlington, Manchester Airport - Sheffield, Liverpool Lime Street - Manchester Victoria, Manchester Airport - Scarborough, Manchester Airport - Hull, Manchester Airport - Huddersfield, Manchester Airport - Middlesbrough, Manchester Airport - Liverpool Lime Street, Manchester Airport - Leeds, Manchester Airport - Manchester Victoria · 10m · $1 · every ~3 min
Bus41, 135 · 5m · $2 · every ~32 min
T1 · 10m
X43 · 29m · every ~1 min
TramBlue Line, Navy Line, Green Line, Yellow Line · 5m · $2 · every ~23 min

Manchester Victoria train station facilities and services

Manchester Victoria 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 Victoria.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Manchester Victoria.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Manchester Victoria: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Manchester Victoria: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester Victoria: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A station, Scooter Friendly Station - Step free access around the whole station via use of lifts between platforms 3-6, connection with Manchester Metrolink using ramps, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Accepts Cash & Cards Located near the ticket office, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: As per ticket office opening hours, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.

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