PORTSMOUTH to CHELMSFORD train from $26 with South Western Railway

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The cheapest and fastest trains from Portsmouth to Chelmsford

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 21

Cheapest price on Sep 21

$45

Average ticket price on Sep 21

$45

Fastest journey on Sep 21

3 h 2 m

Average journey duration on Sep 21

3 h 2 m

Trains on Sep 21

Distance

150 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Portsmouth to Chelmsford is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Portsmouth to Chelmsford will cost around $45 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $45.

Fast trains

On Mon, Sep 21, we found 1 trains from Portsmouth to Chelmsford, including 1 direct services.

On Mon, Sep 21 the direct trains cover the 150 km distance in an average of 3 h 2 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 2 m .

On Mon, Sep 21 the slowest trains will take 3 h 2 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.

10:19 AM3h02
Portsmouth
1:21 PMChelmsford
$451One-way
0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus for Portsmouth to Chelmsford

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Portsmouth to Chelmsford among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of $44 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 12m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $44, while a train costs an average of $44.

Distance: 93 miles (150 km)

Compare train with

Most popular Train	Driving
$44 Average price Cheapest	$40 Average price (fuel + tolls)
3h 12m Average total duration Fastest 2h 42m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	2h 16m Average total duration (door-to-door)
Most popular train company	Your own car or car rental
Direct Options	Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Portsmouth to Chelmsford is a train with an average price of $44.

The fastest way to travel from Portsmouth to Chelmsford is by train with an average journey time of 2h 42m.

Yes, you can take a bus between Portsmouth and Chelmsford.

We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Portsmouth to Chelmsford among Omio's users.

Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.

Tickets start at around $44 compared to roughly $40 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-3.84. The journey takes 2h 42m versus 2h 16m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.

Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.

Live departures

Portsmouth to Chelmsford train times

The table below shows live departures for Portsmouth to Chelmsford trains for today, Sunday, September 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at

Provider	Departs	Duration	Arrives	Transfers
L79585+Tube from London Waterloo to Stratford (London)+P66926	On time 8:37 AM Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS)	3h33	12:10 PM Chelmsford station (CHM)	2 transfers
X07038_G26398 · G26785+P67209+Tube from London Bridge to Stratford (London)	8:45 AM Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS)	3h56	12:41 PM Chelmsford station (CHM)	3 transfers
L79603+P66931+Tube from London Waterloo to Stratford (London)	On time 9:37 AM Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS)	3h33	1:10 PM Chelmsford station (CHM)	2 transfers
L83915+Tube from London Waterloo to Stratford (London)+P67213	On time 9:50 AM Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS)	3h51	1:41 PM Chelmsford station (CHM)	2 transfers
L79623+Tube from London Waterloo to Stratford (London)+P66934	On time 10:37 AM Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS)	3h33	2:10 PM Chelmsford station (CHM)	2 transfers
X07036_G26412 · G26809+P67217+Tube from London Bridge to Stratford (London)	10:45 AM Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS)	3h56	2:41 PM Chelmsford station (CHM)	3 transfers
This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Portsmouth to Chelmsford by bus

Compare 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.

Mon
Sep 21

Tue
Sep 22

Wed
Sep 23

Thu
Sep 24

Fri
Sep 25

Sat
Sep 26

Sun
Sep 27

Why should you book Portsmouth to Chelmsford trains with Omio?

Southern as well as South Western Railway offer trains services from Portsmouth to Chelmsford.

Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Portsmouth to Chelmsford.

Why book with Omio vs Southern?

Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Southern, but also compare tickets for the likes of South Western Railway to find the best option for your trip from Portsmouth 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.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?

Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of South Western Railway to find the best option for your trip from Portsmouth to Chelmsford.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Portsmouth to Chelmsford

United Kingdom

Trains from Portsmouth to Chelmsford run on average 11 times per day, taking around 2h 42m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $26 if you book in advance.

The earliest train runs at 03:48, the last at 21:55. The fastest train covers the 93 miles (150 km) distance in 2h 23m.

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

93 miles (150 km)

Average train duration

2h 42m

Cheapest ticket price

$26

Trains per day

Fastest train

2h 23m

First train

3:48 AM

Last train

9:55 PM

Cheapest Month

Nov

Cheapest Day

Sat

High Season

Jul - Sep

Low Season

Apr - Jun

Busiest Day

Wed

Least Busy Day

Wed

Best time to book

14 days

Price information

Train companies: South Western Railway, Southern from Portsmouth to Chelmsford trainsSouth Western Railway, Southern trains will get you between Portsmouth and Chelmsford from $26. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

South Western Railway

About

South Western Railway is a train operating company in the United Kingdom, providing services in the south and south-west of England. It operates a variety of train types, including high-speed trains, local stopping services, and suburban commuter trains. It also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Off-Peak, and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for South Western Railway include London Waterloo to Portsmouth Harbour, London Waterloo to Weymouth, and London Waterloo to Bournemouth.

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average South Western Railway Duration

2h 23m

Cheapest South Western Railway Price

$26

South Western Railway frequency

6 a day

Luggage included

2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price

Luggage storage

Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages

Cancellation Policy

Refund depends on ticket type and timing of cancellation

Refund

Full refund if train is cancelled by operator

Amenities on board the train

Wifi

Food sold onboard

Cafe bar service with hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches

Seat reservation

Seat reservations available for a fee, free for some ticket types

Toilets

USB plugs

Accessibility

Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, assistance service available

Pets

Small pets travel free, dogs must be on lead

Quiet zone

Learn more about South Western Railway

Southern

About

Southern Rail is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from high-speed intercity trains to local commuter services. Its trains include the InterCity 125, InterCity 225, and Class 444 and 450. It also offers a variety of ticket types, such as Advance, Off-Peak, and Super Off-Peak. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for Southern Rail are London to Brighton, London to Southampton, and London to Portsmouth.

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average Southern Duration

2h 54m

Cheapest Southern Price

$100

Southern frequency

3 a day

Luggage included

2 pieces of luggage and 1 piece of hand luggage

Luggage storage

Overhead racks and luggage areas at the end of carriages

Cancellation Policy

According to ticket type conditions

Refund

Full refund provided

Amenities on board the train

Wifi

Food sold onboard

Trolley service with snacks and drinks

Seat reservation

Seat reservations available for a fee

Toilets

USB plugs

Accessibility

Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available

Pets

Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require a ticket

Quiet zone

Learn more about Southern

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.

View on map Visit website

Recommended

Sandford Mill Museum

Compact museum preserving the story of radio, radar, and electronics pioneers linked to Marconi’s world-changing work in Chelmsford.

View on map Visit website

Essex Regiment Museum

Volunteer-run military museum displaying Essex Regiment collections, medals, uniforms, and stories from local service history.

View on map Visit website

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 Portsmouth to Chelmsford

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth to Chelmsford can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $26, while the average price is around $44.

The train from Portsmouth to Chelmsford takes 2h 23m and runs 11 per day.

The distance by train from Portsmouth to Chelmsford is 93 miles (150 km).

The first train from Portsmouth to Chelmsford leaves at 3:48 AM.

The last train from Portsmouth to Chelmsford leaves at 9:55 PM.

There is no high speed train available from Portsmouth to Chelmsford.

There is no direct train service currently available from Portsmouth to Chelmsford.

Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Portsmouth to Chelmsford.

The train station in Portsmouth that goes to Chelmsford is Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS), which connects to Chelmsford station (CHM).

The cheapest way to get from Portsmouth to Chelmsford is by train, with a cost of around $26.

The train journey from Portsmouth to Chelmsford offers views of the English countryside, including glimpses of the South Downs National Park and pleasant rural landscapes, although it is not renowned as a particularly scenic route compared to other UK train journeys.

A day trip from Portsmouth to Chelmsford is not feasible as the travel duration is 2h 23m. However, there are 7 trains per day available for this journey, covering a distance of 93 miles (150 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 Portsmouth to Chelmsford.

Since neither Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth to Chelmsford

Most Portsmouth to Chelmsford trains use the Portsmouth & Southsea to Chelmsford station pair. Use this guide to compare Portsmouth and Chelmsford train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Portsmouth

Arrival train stations in Chelmsford

Which Portsmouth station do trains to Chelmsford leave from?

Trains from Portsmouth to Chelmsford leave from Portsmouth & Southsea. The station is from Portsmouth city centre at Portsmouth & Southsea station, Commercial Road, Portsmouth, Hampshire, PO1 1EQ.

Portsmouth & SouthseaPortsmouth & Southsea station, Commercial Road, Portsmouth, Hampshire, PO1 1EQ Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to Portsmouth & Southsea from Portsmouth city centre

Location for Rail Replacement ServicesStation Street bus stop at side of Railway Station near Matalan car park.

Portsmouth & Southsea train station facilities and services

Portsmouth & Southsea has practical services for this route, including Wifi, 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 Portsmouth & Southsea.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Portsmouth & Southsea. ATMs are available at Portsmouth & Southsea.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Portsmouth & Southsea.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Portsmouth & Southsea: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Portsmouth & Southsea: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Portsmouth & Southsea: 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. Please be aware that some platforms at this station have no or only partial tactile paving on the platform edge, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All South Western Railway ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. All machines are accessible, however the station may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.

More about Portsmouth & Southsea

FrattonFratton station, Selbourne Terrace, Portsmouth, Hampshire, PO1 5AW Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to Fratton from Portsmouth city centre

Fratton is 1 km from Portsmouth city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainPortsmouth Harbour - London Waterloo, Portsmouth Harbour - Eastleigh, Portsmouth Harbour - Southampton Central, Portsmouth & Southsea - Southampton Central, Portsmouth Harbour - Woking, Portsmouth & Southsea - London Waterloo, Portsmouth Harbour - Guildford, Portsmouth Harbour - Winchester, Portsmouth Harbour - Basingstoke, Portsmouth & Southsea - Woking, Portsmouth Harbour - Woolston, Portsmouth & Southsea - Woolston, Portsmouth Harbour - Petersfield, Portsmouth Harbour - Fareham · 3m · $1 · every ~10 min

Bus1 · 4m · every ~30 min

13 · 6m · $2 · every ~6 min

Fratton train station facilities and services

Fratton has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.