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The cheapest and fastest trains from Manchester to Colchester
Showing times and prices for Dec 22
Cheapest price
$91
Average price
$117
Fastest journey
3 h 42 m
Average duration
3 h 56 m
Trains per day
5
Distance
276 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Manchester to Colchester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Manchester to Colchester will cost around $117 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $91.
Fast trains
Of the 5 trains that leave Manchester for Colchester on Mon, Dec 22, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, Dec 22 the direct trains cover the 276 km distance in an average of 3 h 56 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 42 m .
On Mon, Dec 22 the slowest trains will take 4 h 8 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.
04:05AM4h08
Manchester08:13AMColchester
$911One-way
0 transfers
08:15AM3h58
Manchester12:13PMColchester
$981One-way
0 transfers
07:35AM3h42
Manchester11:17AMColchester
$1001One-way
0 transfers
08:55AM3h51
Manchester12:46PMColchester
$1421One-way
0 transfers
01:48PM4h01
Manchester05:49PMColchester
$1531One-way
0 transfers
07:35AM3h42
Manchester11:17AMColchester
$1001One-way
0 transfers
08:55AM3h51
Manchester12:46PMColchester
$1421One-way
0 transfers
08:15AM3h58
Manchester12:13PMColchester
$981One-way
0 transfers
01:48PM4h01
Manchester05:49PMColchester
$1531One-way
0 transfers
04:05AM4h08
Manchester08:13AMColchester
$911One-way
0 transfers
Manchester - ColchesterCompare Avanti West Coast, East Midlands Trains
$80
3h 41m
4 a day
Power plugs
Wifi
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item included
First Class: Included in ticket price. Standard Class: Optional reservation for £8-12
$172
5h 20m
1 a day
Power plugs
Wifi
2 pieces of luggage and 1 piece of hand luggage included
Seat reservations available for a fee. Free for Advance ticket holders
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Manchester to Colchester
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Manchester to Colchester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €35. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 6m. 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 €35, and a flight costs an average of €63.
Distance: 171 miles (276 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight |
|---|---|---|
€127 Average price | €53 Average price Cheapest | €174 Average price |
4h 41m Average total duration 4h 11m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 32m Average total duration 8h 2m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 6m Average total duration Fastest 1h 6m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.7kg CO2 emissions | 0.8 - 1.6kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Manchester to Colchester train times
The table below shows live departures for Manchester to Colchester trains for tomorrow, Monday, December 22. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 10:06 PM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4:05 AM Manchester | 4h08 | 8:13 AM Colchester | 0 transfersDirect | |
 | 7:36 AM Manchester | 7h25 | 3:01 PM Colchester | 0 transfersDirect | |
 | 7:45 AM Manchester | 5h28 | 1:13 PM Colchester | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:55 AM Manchester | 3h51 | 12:46 PM Colchester | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 1:48 PM Manchester | 4h01 | 5:49 PM Colchester | 0 transfersDirect |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Manchester to Colchester 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.
Mon
Dec 22
Dec 22
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Dec 23
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Dec 28
Why should you book Manchester to Colchester trains with Omio?
Avanti West Coast as well as East Midlands Trains offer trains services from Manchester to Colchester. Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Manchester to Colchester.
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 East Midlands Trains to find the best option for your trip from Manchester to Colchester.
- 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 Colchester.
Why book with Omio over Trainline and Rail Europe?
- Multiple travel company options: While Avanti West Coast tickets can be bought on Avanti West Coast's website or third party sellers, Omio allows you to compare with the likes of East Midlands Trains to help you choose the right option for your journey from Manchester to Colchester.
- 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 Colchester.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Manchester to Colchester
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Manchester to Colchester run on average 5 times per day, taking around 4h 11m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $80 (€64) but you can travel from only $44 (€35) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 04:07, the last at 21:43. The fastest train covers the 171 miles (276 km) distance in 3h 41m.
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 $44 (€35)
Distance 171 miles (276 km) |
Average train duration 4h 11m |
Cheapest ticket price $80 (€64) |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 3h 41m |
First train 04:07 |
Last train 21:43 |
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 $44 (€35)
Train companies: Avanti West Coast, East Midlands Trains from Manchester to Colchester trainsAvanti West Coast, East Midlands Trains trains will get you between Manchester and Colchester from $44 (€35). 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 41m
Cheapest Price
$80 (€64)
Avanti West Coast frequency
4 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
East Midlands Trains
About
East Midlands Trains is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London to the East Midlands, Yorkshire, and the North West. East Midlands Trains operates a fleet of Class 158, Class 156, Class 170, Class 222 and Class 180 diesel multiple units, as well as Class 222 Meridian electric multiple units. East Midlands Trains also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for East Midlands Trains are London to Nottingham, Sheffield, and Leeds.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 20m
Cheapest Price
$172 (€138)
East Midlands Trains frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 piece of hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee. Free for Advance ticket holders
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs must be on lead and require a ticket (£6 for day ticket)
Quiet zone
FAQs: Trains from Manchester to Colchester
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Manchester 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.
The distance by train from Manchester to Colchester is 171 miles (276 km).
The first train from Manchester to Colchester leaves at 4:07 AM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Manchester to Colchester.
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.
The last train from Manchester to Colchester leaves at 9:43 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Manchester to Colchester.
A day trip from Manchester to Colchester is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 41m. However, there are 5 train services available per day for this route. The distance between the two cities is 171 miles (276 km).
Yes, you can take the train from Manchester to Colchester.
Train ticket prices from Manchester to Colchester can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $80 (€64), while the average price is around $158 (€127).
The cheapest way to get from Manchester to Colchester is by bus, with a cost of around $44 (€35).
The train from Manchester to Colchester takes 3h 41m and runs 5 per day.
The train station in Manchester that goes to Colchester is Manchester Piccadilly (MAN), which connects to Colchester station (COL).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Manchester to Colchester.
The train journey from Manchester to Colchester offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, with views of the English countryside, small towns, and some industrial areas, but it is not typically known as one of the UK's most scenic routes.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Manchester to Colchester
Manchester
Colchester
The major train station for departures in Manchester is Manchester Piccadilly. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Manchester Piccadilly for your trip from Manchester to Colchester.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Sat: 04:30 - 22:30
- Sun: 07:00 - 22:30
Wifi
- Pay as you go Wi-Fi is available through BT Wi-Fi.
Lockers
- Operated by Excess Baggage Co. Llocated between Platforms 10 and 11 and open daily from 08:00 to 21:00.
Dining
- Burger King
- Caffè Nero
- Carluccio’s
- Hotel Chocolat
- Starbucks
- The Pasty Shop
- Costa Coffee
- Pret a Manger
- Upper Crust
- McDonald's
- & more
Accessibility
- There is step-free access throughout the station. Ramps for train access and wheelchairs are also available.
Hotel
- DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Manchester - Piccadilly
- Premier Inn Manchester City
- Staycity Aparthotels - Manchester Piccadilly
Ticket Office
- Mon - Sat: 04:30 - 22:30
- Sun: 07:00 - 22:30
Information Desk
- Located near the Fairfield Street entrance on the mezzanine level.
Public transit options for Manchester Piccadilly
- Bus lines: 1, 2, 3, 147
- Train lines: Northern, TransPennine Express, Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, East Midlands Trains, Transport for Wales
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityWCHotel
Lost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rentalinformation
Address
Manchester Victoria station, Station Approach, Todd Street, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M3 1WYTicket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday,Tuesday,Wednesday,Thursday,Friday,Saturday 06:30 - 22:00 Sunday 08:00 - 22:15
Parking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- 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
WC
- Toilets Location: A key is available in the Duty's Manager's office.
- Baby changing facilities: No
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage location: on platform and approach
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Manchester Victoria
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Pick up point is on Station Approach (M3 1WY) directly outside the station main entrance, outside the M & S shop.
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday,Tuesday,Wednesday,Thursday,Friday,Saturday 06:30 - 22:40 Sunday 07:30 - 22:00
Parking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- 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
WC
- Toilets Location: There will be no toilet provision at Manchester Oxford Road from 15th July to 25th July to allow for existing toilets to be refurbished
- Baby changing facilities: No
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: on Platform 4/5
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Manchester Oxford Road
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Pick Up / Drop Off at the bus stops on Whitworth St West (200 yards from station) (station side for Liverpool, opposite side for Piccadilly)
The major train station for arrivals in Colchester is Colchester. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Colchester for your journey to Colchester from Manchester.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
ShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:00 - 22:00 Saturday 05:30 - 21:00 Sunday 06:00 - 21:00
Distance to city center
1 kmShopping
- Type of shops available: News agent Dry cleaner Passport Photo Booth
Parking
- Car Park: Premium Bays
Accessibility
- 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
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on all platforms. The accessible (radar key) toilets are located on Platforms 2 and 4
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Situated by the South entrance, and in the main car park by the North entrance. A secure 134-space cycle compound is also available (key fob required, speak to station staff for availability).
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 0800 028 28 78
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens
Public transit options for Colchester
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Replacement transport stop at the bus stop by main station entrance
Amenities at train station
ParkingAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike Parkinginformation
Distance to city center
1 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Accessible taxis: Details of nearest taxis are shown on station information poster
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage location: Platforms
- Storage CCTV: No
Public transit options for Hythe (Essex)
- Onward travel information: Local Colchester Town service Buses stop near station
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Replacement bus services stop at station entrance adjacent to level crossing
Amenities at train station
WifiParkingDiningAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 06:10 - 20:15 Saturday 07:00 - 18:45 Sunday Closed
Parking
- Car Park: There is a Council managed car park behind the station
Accessibility
- 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
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
WC
- Toilets Location: Toilets are located alongside the ticket office and only open when the station is staffed.
- National key toilets: No
- Baby changing facilities: No
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Within station, forecourt and on platform
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 0800 028 28 78
Public transit options for Colchester Town
- Onward travel information: Colchester Town Station is around 5 minutes walk from Colchester Bus Station
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Town Railway Station Bus Stops (stop B) for planned rail replacement only.
Most popular train connections from Manchester
More options for your journey from Manchester to Colchester
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Colchester and Manchester
Most popular train connections to Colchester
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