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Colchester to Chelmsford train times and prices
Plan your journey from Colchester to Chelmsford with ease. Explore the first and last train times, departure and arrival stations, distance, journey time, and price options to make the most of your trip.
Price*
From €17.36
Departure station
Arrival station
Journey time
17m
Distance
21 miles (34km)
First/last train
04:41 / 17:33
Frequency
30
Train operators
* Note: Lowest prices are based on an analysis of recent historical pricing data. Live fares fluctuate based on demand and how far in advance you book.
7-day train ticket price trend
Travelling from Colchester to Chelmsford by train? Find fares from as low as €17.36. Benefit from Advance tickets, Off-Peak train tickets, and Railcards for extra savings. Enjoy the most cost-effective and pleasant journey with TrainPal. For more tips on saving money, visit our UK cheap train ticket guide.
Cheapest
€17.36
On Tue 10
Live timetable and departures
From Colchester to Chelmsford, take the fastest train in 17m, typically 25m. Daily, 30 trains depart from Colchester, with the first at 04:41 and the last at 17:33. Check real-time updates for train times, delays, and cancellations. TrainPal saves you time, effort, and money.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
04:41 Colchester | 30m, Direct | 05:11 Chelmsford | Greater Anglia | Find tickets |
05:11 Colchester | 29m, Direct | 05:40 Chelmsford | Greater Anglia | Find tickets |
05:35 Colchester | 20m, Direct | 05:55 Chelmsford | Greater Anglia | Find tickets |
05:44 Colchester | 26m, Direct | 06:10 Chelmsford | Greater Anglia | Find tickets |
06:00 Colchester | 17m, Direct | 06:17 Chelmsford | Greater Anglia | Find tickets |
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Travelling with Greater Anglia from Colchester to Chelmsford
Praised as being one of the UK’s most punctual railway companies, Greater Anglia operates reliable services across London and the East of England, primarily running along the Great Eastern Main Line and the West Anglia Main Line. You’ll also find fast airport services from London Stansted Airport under their Stansted Express service to get to London Liverpool Street.
Standard
Excellent seat comfort with thick cushioning
Standard legroom
No seat reservations
Luggage
Food & Drink
Pet
Onboard facilities
Bike
Accessibility
Seat Facilities
First Class
Valid only on journeys between London Liverpool Street and Norwich
Ideal for peak-time commuters, couples on day trips
Larger seats with a table at every seat
More legroom and space in general
No seat reservations
Complimentary refreshments from Cafe Bar during the week
Sockets and USB ports at every seat
Free onboard WiFi
Upgraded air conditioning onboard
Luggage
Seat Types
Food & Drink
Pet
Onboard facilities
Bike
Seat Facilities
TrainPal's Travel Expert Experience
"Looking for a bit of peace and quiet on a Greater Anglia train between London and Norwich? Coach M is a designated Quiet Coach, where passengers must keep their phones on silent and take calls elsewhere. I’ve found it great for getting some work done or when I just want to relax with a book. "
"Greater Anglia’s new trains have really helpful passenger information screens that will help you find a free seat. You’ll see a graphic showing the train’s carriages in relation to where you are and carriages will either indicate three green blocks (almost empty), two green blocks, one green block or ‘Full’."
Essential onboard policies
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Luggage
- Most UK train operators allow passengers to bring a reasonable amount of luggage free of charge.
- This is commonly considered three items per passenger, typically 2 larger bags and 1 smaller bag. Larger items cover suitcases, backpacks, and other similarly-sized items.
- Bags go in overhead racks, under seats, or in designated floor-level luggage stacks.
- Occasionally, some providers have stricter policies, such as Lumo, which enforces a limit of 1 medium suitcase and 1 small under-seat bag per person.
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Bicycle
- Standard bicycles and folding bikes are generally allowed.
- Bike reservations are required on some services and are usually free.
- Some operators also permit tandems and e-bikes.
- Please note that e-scooters, motorcycles, tricycles, and bicycle trailers are not permitted.
- We strongly recommend checking the specific cycle policy on your train operator's website before you travel.
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Children
- Children under 5 usually travel free when accompanied by a fare-paying passenger.
- Children aged 5–15 get 50% off, and 16-year-olds can use the 16-17 Saver Railcard for 50% off.
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Pets
- Each provider generally allows up to two animals per passenger free of charge, but individual operators can have additional restrictions.
- Throughout the journey, dogs must be on a lead, and any other pets must remain in their carrier.
- Animals are not permitted on seats or in restaurant carriages.
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Passenger assistance
- Passengers with disabilities or additional needs can arrange free assistance with their train operator.
- This includes help at the station, boarding and leaving the train, and making connections. Assistance can also include ramps for wheelchair users and help finding accessible facilities or the correct platform.
- Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets are available on many trains, although facilities vary by service.
- To ensure support is available for your journey, this service should be booked in advance.
Departing from Colchester
Address:
Station Approach Road, Colchester, Essex, CO1 1XD
Public Transport Links:
Bus: Local bus services stop on both the station forecourt on Station Approach Road and Station Way, with connections across Colchester and the surrounding area. The X20 Airlink to Stansted Airport departs from right outside the station.
Taxi: A licensed taxi rank is located near the main entrance on Station Approach Road at the front of the station car park.
Car: A SABA-operated station car park with 931 spaces is available on Station Approach Road, with secure cycle parking also available.
Platforms:
Officially known as Colchester North, the station is managed by Greater Anglia and has 4 platforms, with step-free access to all platforms either from the street or via lifts. Note that Colchester Town station, closer to the city centre, is a separate and smaller station on St Botolph’s Circus.
TrainPal's Travel Expert Experience
"CoffeeLink is located just inside the main station entrance, making it a great practical stop for a good coffee and something to eat before boarding your train. For more food options, head south along North Station Road towards the city centre – there’s a variety of interesting eateries and bars here, including some great Indian restaurants. Castle Park is a 15-minute walk from the station and well worth the detour. Colchester Castle sits at its heart, along with the remains of Duncan’s Gate and Roman townhouses, making Colchester’s claim as Britain’s first city very tangible."
FAQs about Colchester Station
Are there two train stations in Colchester?
Yes, in fact, Colchester has three railway stations. Colchester (also known as Colchester North) on Station Approach Road is the main intercity station, while Colchester Town on St Botolph’s Circus is a smaller station closer to the city centre. Hythe station serves the southern part of the city. All three stations are operated by Greater Anglia.
Which Colchester station goes to London?
Both Colchester North and Colchester Town operate services to London Liverpool Street with Greater Anglia. Colchester North is the main intercity station with faster and more frequent services, reaching Liverpool Street in approximately 50-60 minutes. Colchester Town services run hourly and typically take 1 hour and 10 minutes.
How big is Colchester station?
Colchester station has four platforms and handles over 3 million passengers a year. With the most direct services to London Liverpool Street, Ipswich, Norwich and Stansted Airport, it serves as the main rail hub for Colchester.
How far is Colchester station from the town?
Colchester North station is approximately 1 mile from the city centre – around a 15-20 minute walk south along North Station Road. For a shorter walk to the centre, Colchester Town station on St Botolph’s Circus can also be a convenient option.
Arriving at Chelmsford
Address:
Duke Street, Chelmsford, Essex, CM1 1HT
Onward Transit Options:
Bus: First Bus routes serve Chelmsford from stops on Duke Street, a short walk from the station entrance, with connections across the city and to nearby towns. A Chelmsford PLUSBUS ticket can be added to your train ticket on the TrainPal app for discounted unlimited bus travel around the city.
Taxi: A licensed taxi rank is located outside the station entrance on Railway Street.
Bicycle: A CyclePoint with free and secure cycle parking is available on Park Road, directly opposite the station entrance.
Top Things to Do & Nearby Attractions:
Chelmsford Cathedral (5-minute walk)
Central Park (directly below the station viaduct)
High Street and shopping (5-minute walk)
Chelmsford Museum (15-minute walk to Oaklands Park)
RHS Garden Hyde Hall (approximately 20 minutes by taxi or bus)
Airport Transfers:
Greater Anglia operates services towards Stansted Airport, with a change at London Liverpool Street. Total journey time, approximately 1h 40 minutes.
TrainPal's Travel Expert Experience
"Chelmsford station has three coffee options, but Coffee Station is the pick of the three, serving quality specialty coffee and fresh croissants. Just outside the station, keep an eye out for the Marconi statue, a tribute to Guglielmo Marconi, who set up the world's first wireless telegraphy factory in Chelmsford in 1898, making the city the true birthplace of radio. Among a great selection of independent bars and brewery pubs around the station, The Brewhouse and Kitchen is one of Chelmsford's best. Well worth a visit if you have time before your train."
FAQs: Chelmsford Station
Does the Elizabeth line go to Chelmsford?
No, the Elizabeth line does not serve Chelmsford. Trains to Chelmsford depart from London Liverpool Street, operated by Greater Anglia. The Elizabeth line terminates at Shenfield to the west of Chelmsford.
Where is the new Chelmsford station?
Chelmsford's second station, Beaulieu Park, opened in October 2025 on the Great Eastern Main Line, approximately 3 miles northeast of the city centre.
How many train stations are in Chelmsford?
Chelmsford now has two railway stations – Chelmsford station in the city centre and Beaulieu Park station, approximately 3 miles northeast of the city centre.
Which London station goes to Chelmsford?
Both stations are served by Greater Anglia trains from London Liverpool Street.
Delay Repay & Refund Policies from Colchester to Chelmsford
Apply for Greater Anglia Delay Repay
If your Greater Anglia train is delayed, you can claim compensation depending on the length of your delay:
15-29 minutes: 25% of a single ticket or 12.5% of a return ticket.
30-59 minutes: 50% of a single ticket or 25% of a return ticket.
60-119 minutes: 100% of a single ticket or 50% of a return ticket.
Over 120 minutes: 100% of a single ticket or return ticket. (Note: Two separate Advance Single tickets do not count as a return; you can only claim for the specific delayed ticket).
FAQ
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How much is a train from Colchester to Chelmsford?
Tickets from Colchester to Chelmsford typically cost €17.54, but can be as cheap as €17.36 when booked in advance. Other factors that may affect the ticket price include time of day and ticket type, so be sure to research before purchasing.
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How long is the train from Colchester to Chelmsford?
The journey should take, on average, 25m, though it can be as quick as 17m when booking specific services. Be sure to click the "Fastest" tab when searching your route to find out.
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Is there a direct train from Colchester to Chelmsford?
Yes, there is a direct train between Colchester and Chelmsford. However, you will find indirect services listed too, including where you will have to make a changeover. Check each listing for either ‘direct’ or how many stops are required when purchasing your ticket.
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How far in advance can I book my train from Colchester to Chelmsford?
You can typically book tickets from Colchester to Chelmsford up to 12 weeks before departure.
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Do Colchester to Chelmsford trains offer Wi-Fi?
Yes, most trains on the route from Colchester to Chelmsford are equipped with Wi-Fi, as well as power sockets at your seat. However, please note that the availability of these services can vary depending on the train compan.
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How far is Colchester from Chelmsford?
The distance between Colchester and Chelmsford is approximately 21 miles (34km), depending on the specific stations you travel between.
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How frequent are trains from Colchester to Chelmsford?
There is 30 train running from Colchester to Chelmsford per day. Please note that trains run more regularly during peak hours.
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How can I buy the cheapest tickets from Colchester to Chelmsford?
To get the cheapest ticket, we recommend buying in advance, as early as 12 weeks before departure. We'd also strongly suggest travelling during off-peak hours where possible and getting a Railcard, which typically offers ⅓ off your ticket cost and is available to most travellers!
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How do I check if my train is delayed or cancelled?
Keep a close eye on your journey via the TrainPal app, which offers real-time information on train status and notifications of any train strikes that will impact you.
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Can my tickets be refunded or changed?
In the UK, refund and change policies for train tickets vary by type. Advance tickets are generally non-refundable but may be changeable for a fee. Flexible tickets, like Anytime and Off-Peak tickets, offer more options for refunds and changes. Review the specific terms and conditions of your ticket or refer to UK train ticket types for precise details.
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* Prices are dynamic and subject to change. Ticket prices vary based on time of day, route, and class. This pricing does not apply to discounted Split tickets and Railcards.
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