- Must visit
Colchester Castle Museum
Major museum inside the Norman castle, presenting Roman finds and town history. Essential for understanding Colchester from Iron Age to modern times.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Plymouth to Colchester
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
$109
Average ticket price on Sep 20
$109
Fastest journey on Sep 20
5 h 13 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
5 h 13 m
Trains on Sep 20
1
Distance
390 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Plymouth to Colchester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Plymouth to Colchester will cost around $109 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $109.
Fast trains
On Sun, Sep 20, we found 1 trains from Plymouth to Colchester, including 1 direct services.
On Sun, Sep 20 the direct trains cover the 390 km distance in an average of 5 h 13 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 13 m .
On Sun, Sep 20 the slowest trains will take 5 h 13 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.
10:03 AM5h13Plymouth3:16 PMColchester$1091One-way0 transfers
- 10:03 AM5h13Plymouth3:16 PMColchester$1091One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Plymouth to Colchester
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Plymouth to Colchester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $99 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 5h 6m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $99, while a flight costs an average of $522.
Distance: 242 miles (390 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$122 Average price | $522 Average price | $99 Average price Cheapest | $100 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 6m Average total duration 4h 36m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 6m Average total duration Fastest 3h 6m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 9h 43m Average total duration 9h 13m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 2m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Plymouth to Colchester is a bus with an average price of $99 (€81).
This is compared to other travel options from Plymouth to Colchester:
A bus is $23 (€19) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Plymouth to Colchester costing on average $122 (€100).
A bus is $423 (€346) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Plymouth to Colchester costing on average $522 (€427).
The fastest way to travel from Plymouth to Colchester is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 6m.
Other travel options to Colchester take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 36m.
Bus takes on average 9h 13m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Plymouth and Colchester including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Plymouth to Colchester 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 26m sooner (4h 36m by train vs 6h 2m by car). Tickets start at around $122 (€100) compared to roughly $100 (€81) 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
Plymouth to Colchester train times
The table below shows live departures for Plymouth to Colchester trains for tomorrow, Sunday, September 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10:03 AM Plymouth | 5h13 | 3:16 PM Colchester | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Plymouth 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.
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Why should you book Plymouth to Colchester trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as Great Western Railway offer trains services from Plymouth to Colchester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Plymouth to Colchester.
Why book with Omio vs CrossCountry?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for CrossCountry, but also compare tickets for the likes of Great Western Railway to find the best option for your trip from Plymouth 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 CrossCountry with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Plymouth to Colchester.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Great Western Railway to find the best option for your trip from Plymouth 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 Plymouth to Colchester.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Plymouth to Colchester
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Plymouth to Colchester run on average 6 times per day, taking around 4h 36m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $88 (€72) but you can travel from only $57 (€46) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 04:41, the last at 22:23. The fastest train covers the 242 miles (390 km) distance in 4h 18m.
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 $57 (€46)
Distance 242 miles (390 km) |
Average train duration 4h 36m |
Cheapest ticket price $88 (€72) |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 4h 18m |
First train 4:41 AM |
Last train 10:23 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 28 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 $57 (€46)
Train companies: Great Western Railway, CrossCountry from Plymouth to Colchester trainsGreat Western Railway, CrossCountry trains will get you between Plymouth and Colchester from $57 (€46). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Great Western Railway
About
Great Western Railway is a train operating company in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London Paddington to the West of England, South Wales and the Cotswolds. It also operates services from London Paddington to Oxford, Reading and Bristol. It offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, Off-Peak and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, air conditioning and catering services. The most popular routes for Great Western Railway are London Paddington to Bristol, Reading and Oxford.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Great Western Railway Duration
4h 18m
Cheapest Great Western Railway Price
$88 (€72)
Great Western Railway frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
Two pieces of luggage and one piece of hand luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, dedicated luggage areas at 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
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches. First Class at-seat service on some routes
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservations available for a fee. Free in First Class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone
CrossCountry
About
CrossCountry is a fast-speed train operator in the United Kingdom, offering both express and regional services across the country. Express services, such as the CrossCountry Voyager and XC Trains, provide quick and comfortable journeys with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. Regional services, including the CrossCountry Regional and Regional Express, make more local stops for a leisurely trip. Ticket options include Standard Class and First Class, as well as Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak fares to suit different budgets and schedules. Popular routes include London to Birmingham, Manchester to Edinburgh, and Bristol to Reading.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average CrossCountry Duration
4h 37m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
$132 (€108)
CrossCountry frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Colchester
Things to do in Colchester
Discover the best of Colchester — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Colchester trip today.
- Recommended
The Military Museum
Award-winning museum on former barracks, covering military life and the Essex Regiment. Strong collections make it a standout for social and army history.
- Recommended
Colchester Natural History Museum
Natural history museum in a former church, with local wildlife, geology, and family displays. A useful stop for learning about Essex's environment.
- Must visit
Castle Park
Historic park around the castle with formal planting, Roman walls, and central lawns. A classic place to relax while exploring the old town.
- Recommended
Dutch Quarter
Charming conservation area of timber-framed buildings and narrow streets, reflecting the town's links with Dutch and Flemish settlers.
- Recommended
High Street
Main shopping and historic street lined with heritage buildings, independent businesses, and civic landmarks. A practical and atmospheric town-centre walk.
- Gluten-free
Colchester Native Oysters
Colchester Native Oysters are famed shellfish from local estuaries, eaten raw or dressed. They are one of Britain’s oldest recorded regional delicacies.
Essex Eel Pie
Essex Eel Pie is a traditional regional pie of chopped eel in rich gravy. It reflects the historic importance of estuary fishing in Essex.
- Vegetarian
Tiptree Jam Tart
Tiptree Jam Tart uses the county’s famous Wilkin & Sons preserves in a simple buttery tart. It is a classic Essex tea-room style dessert.
Kintsu
Well-regarded modern British restaurant serving seasonal tasting-style plates in an intimate, refined atmosphere.
Church Street Tavern
Established seafood restaurant known for oysters, fish and polished service in a smart but relaxed setting near the town centre.
The Cafe at The Minories
Popular casual venue for brunch, coffee and comfort food with a stylish interior and a strong local following.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK: hotels and dining cost less than London, while local buses and casual meals stay fairly manageable for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.50-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Restaurants may add service; if not, tip 10-12% for good service. Taxi fares are often rounded up. Tipping in cafes is optional.
First Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.50
- Day pass
- £4.80
To the city center
Colchester Railway Station -> Colchester Town Centre, Colchester
- Distance
- 2 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Most local buses in Colchester accept contactless card and mobile payments. Buy before boarding in the First Bus app if you want to compare fares.
- Colchester city services are mainly buses rather than tram or metro. Check operator-specific tickets, as fares can vary between bus companies.
FAQs: Trains from Plymouth to Colchester
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Plymouth 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.
Train ticket prices from Plymouth to Colchester can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $88 (€72), while the average price is around $122 (€100).
The train from Plymouth to Colchester takes 4h 18m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from Plymouth to Colchester leaves at 4:41 AM.
The distance by train from Plymouth to Colchester is 242 miles (390 km).
The last train from Plymouth to Colchester leaves at 10:23 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Plymouth to Colchester.
There is no direct train service currently available from Plymouth to Colchester.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Plymouth to Colchester.
The train station in Plymouth that goes to Colchester is Plymouth station (PLY), which connects to Colchester station (COL).
The cheapest way to get from Plymouth to Colchester is by bus, with a cost of around $57 (€46).
The train journey from Plymouth to Colchester offers varied scenery, including the picturesque coastline as you depart Plymouth and travel through Devon, as well as rolling countryside and charming villages along the route.
A day trip from Plymouth to Colchester is not feasible as the travel duration is 4h 18m, and the frequency of trains is 5 per day. The distance is 242 miles (390 km).
To fully explore Colchester's historic sites, including Colchester Castle and the Roman ruins, while also enjoying its cultural venues like the Firstsite art gallery and the natural beauty of Castle Park, plan to spend around 2 to 3 days.
Yes, you can take the train from Plymouth to Colchester.
Since neither Plymouth nor Colchester are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United Kingdom and United Kingdom. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
Popular day trips by train from Colchester include London, Chelmsford, Ipswich, Stratford, Clacton-on-Sea.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Plymouth to Colchester among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Yes, rail passes such as the BritRail Pass are valid on most trains within the United Kingdom, offering unlimited travel on participating train operators for a set period.
The currency used in the United Kingdom is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). For travelers, using a card is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially in cities and for transportation tickets, though carrying some cash can be useful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Colchester, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in busy areas like the town center and near popular attractions. Common scams include overcharging by taxis that are not licensed and fraudulent street vendors. It's advisable to use official transportation services and remain vigilant in crowded places to avoid these issues.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Plymouth to Colchester
Most Plymouth to Colchester trains use the Plymouth to Colchester station pair. Use this guide to compare Plymouth and Colchester train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Plymouth
Arrival train stations in Colchester
Which Plymouth station do trains to Colchester leave from?
Trains from Plymouth to Colchester leave from Plymouth. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Plymouth city centre at Plymouth station, North Road, Plymouth, Devon, PL4 6AB.
PlymouthPlymouth station, North Road, Plymouth, Devon, PL4 6AB+44 3451652030
City-centre transport
Getting to Plymouth from Plymouth city centre
Bus13, 2, 170 · 4m · $2 · every ~11 min
Plymouth train station facilities and services
Plymouth has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Plymouth.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Plymouth. ATMs are available at Plymouth.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Plymouth.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Plymouth: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Plymouth: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Plymouth: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step Free Category A Station - This station has step free access to all platforms via lifts and the station subway. Safety warning - Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge. Please take extra care when using this station, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible public telephones: Station pay phones are not accessible, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available. Please request staff assistance, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Accessible ticket machines are located at the station entrance by the ticket office, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Which Colchester station do trains from Plymouth arrive at?
Trains from Plymouth to Colchester arrive at Colchester. Colchester is 1 miles (2 km) from Colchester city centre.
ColchesterColchester [North] station, Station Approach Road, Colchester, Essex, CO1 1XD+44 8450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Colchester from Colchester city centre
Colchester is 1 km from Colchester city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainClacton-on-Sea - London Liverpool Street, Clacton-on-Sea - Colchester, Colchester Town - London Liverpool Street, Colchester Town - Colchester, Walton-on-the-Naze - Colchester · 8m · $1 · every ~5 min
Bus2A, 68, 87, 53, 53A, 52, 51, X20 · 6m · $2 · every ~31 min
Colchester train station facilities and services
Colchester has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Colchester.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Colchester. ATMs are available at Colchester.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Colchester. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0800 028 28 78, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Colchester: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Colchester: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Colchester: 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 Plymouth
More options for your journey from Plymouth to Colchester
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Colchester and Plymouth
Most popular train connections to Colchester
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