No booking fees on the app

No booking fees on the app

Best Price Promise

Best Price Promise

Delay Repay

Delay Repay

24/7 customer support

24/7 customer support

  1. Home
  2. Train Journey
  3. Colchester to Chelmsford

Colchester to Chelmsford train timetable

Travelling from Colchester to Chelmsford, the fastest train takes 17m with an average travel time of 27m. 71 trains are running daily, with the first departing at 04:42 and the last at 23:00. Stay updated with live train status, times, delays, and cancellations on TrainPal.

DepartsArrivesOperator

10:43

Colchester
27m, Direct

11:10

Chelmsford
Greater Anglia
Find tickets

11:12

Colchester
28m, Direct

11:40

Chelmsford
Greater Anglia
Find tickets

11:30

Colchester
17m, Direct

11:47

Chelmsford
Greater Anglia
Find tickets

11:33

Colchester
21m, Direct

11:54

Chelmsford
Greater Anglia
Find tickets

11:43

Colchester
27m, Direct

12:10

Chelmsford
Greater Anglia
Find tickets
View More Trains

Colchester to Chelmsford train tickets and times

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 £13.80
Departure station
Arrival station
Distance
21 miles (34km)
Journey time
17m
First train
04:42
Last train
23:00
Frequency
71
Train operators

Colchester to Chelmsford train travel guide

Travelling by train from Colchester to Chelmsford is efficient and offers a scenic and comfortable experience. With frequent departures from Colchester, you can reach Chelmsford in just 17m, making it one of the fastest and most convenient ways to travel between these two places.

Planning and booking

Planning and booking

How much does it cost for a train from Colchester to Chelmsford?

Ticket prices from Colchester to Chelmsford average around £13.80, but vary based on travel dates and ticket flexibility. To see the exact fare for your trip, please perform a search with your preferred dates.

What is the best way to travel from Colchester to Chelmsford by train?

Make full use of the TrainPal app or website. Our Train Journey Planner is an excellent online planning tool. Simply fill in the cities or stations you depart from and arrive at. Then check timetables and schedules, compare prices, consider direct routes, and see if there are food supplies or other amenities you need. You can get the best train route from Colchester to Chelmsford.

What is the fastest train from Colchester to Chelmsford?

The fastest train journey time from Colchester to Chelmsford is 17m . Use our Train Journey Planner to find direct trains, avoid transfers, and compare travel times for each route to see if there are fewer stops to make your journey seamless.

Are there direct trains from Colchester to Chelmsford?

No, unfortunately, you need to transfer from Colchester to Chelmsford. Still, the TrainPal Train Journey Planner helps you find the best train. Just input your origin or destination places, then click "Search" to see the suitable route.

Is it worth taking a train from Colchester to Chelmsford?

Yes, the train is always an excellent choice that balances convenience, comfort, and efficiency. It's more environmentally friendly and relaxing than driving, as you avoid traffic and parking. While coaches may be cheaper, the train provides superior comfort, more space, and greater scheduling flexibility. With the added benefit of arriving directly in the city centre, it's a very convenient way to travel.

How far in advance can I book my train ticket?

You can book UK train tickets as far as 12 weeks ahead of your travel date. This is the key period when train operators release their cheapest Advance tickets. Therefore, to ensure you get the best possible fare, we recommend purchasing your tickets as soon as they become available.

Check timetables and during the journey

Check timetables and during the journey

How do I find Colchester to Chelmsford train timetables?

Colchester to Chelmsford trains are generally punctual, but delays or disruptions can happen due to weather, strikes, and other factors. With Train Journey Planner, finding a train timetable for your trip is simple. Enter your departure and arrival stations to view a detailed schedule of available trains. Provide your travel details to find the best routes, connections, and train times.

How early should I arrive for a train in the UK?

Typically, you should plan to arrive at the station 15-20 minutes before your train is scheduled to depart. However, the size of the station and your familiarity with it can affect this timing. For larger or less familiar stations, leaving home earlier can help reduce stress and ensure a more relaxed journey.

Do Colchester to Chelmsford trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?

Yes, most trains on the Colchester to Chelmsford route offer amenities like Wi-Fi, food services, and various seating options. Additional facilities may include power sockets, accessibility features, and luggage storage. Check the specific amenities offered by the train operator when booking, as these can vary.

How do I transfer between train stations in the UK?

Check our Train Journey Planner, which provides detailed information about transfers to ensure your journey is uninterrupted, saving you time and effort, and allowing you to get a full rest for travelling.

What is the difference between Standard and First Class?

While Standard Class offers a good travel experience, First Class provides an upgrade in comfort and service. This typically includes enhanced amenities like complimentary food and drinks, though the specific offerings depend on the train operator.

Other things you might be interested

Other things you might be interested

Are there discounts for students or seniors on UK train tickets?

Yes, in the UK, students and seniors can benefit from various discount options. The 16-25 Railcard offers students up to 1/3 off most train tickets. Similarly, those aged 60 and above can use the Senior Railcard to enjoy similar savings. Both Railcards can be purchased online or at train stations and are valid for one year, providing great value for frequent travellers

Can UK train 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 Train Tickets and Off-Peak train 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.

How do I check train delays and cancellations in the UK?

Use TrainPal for quick access to live updates and notifications. If your phone allows messages from us, you'll receive instant notifications about train cancellations directly on your screen.

Which train companies operate the Colchester to Chelmsford route?

The train from Colchester to Chelmsford is operated by Greater Anglia. To see which operator runs a specific service, the easiest way to identify it is to use the search bar on this page. The name of the train company will be clearly displayed next to each journey option in the search results.

Essential onboard rules and facilities

  • Luggage

    Your free luggage allowance includes up to three items per passenger, covering standard bags like suitcases, backpacks, and other similarly-sized items.

  • Bicycle

    Bike reservations are mandatory and free for most train journeys, but space is limited. Standard bicycles and folding bikes are generally allowed. 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.

  • Children

    Children under 5 typically travel for free. A 50% discount applies to children aged 5 to 15. Additionally, those aged 16 and 17 are eligible for a 50% discount with a 16-17 Saver Railcard.

  • Pets

    Bring up to 2 pets free; keep dogs on a lead or in a carrier. No animals on seats or in restaurant carriages.

  • Passenger assistance

    All operators offer assistance services for passengers with disabilities or additional needs. This should be booked in advance to guarantee availability.

How to buy cheap Colchester to Chelmsford train tickets

Explore more money-saving tips for your train journeys. Start saving today and enjoy affordable train travel with TrainPal.
󰄶

Break the journey into sections for potential cheaper rail fares.

Save on long journeys with Advance tickets. Buy up to 12 weeks ahead.

Cheaper train tickets for less busy times. Combine with Advance fares for the best deals.

Save 1/3 on train fares with multiple Railcards available.

Unlimited travel between 2 stations. Save more than daily tickets.

GroupSave on Off-Peak tickets: 1/3 off for groups of 3-9 adults.
󰄽

Compensation and refunds

Your plans have changed?

For step-by-step guidance on amending your journey or applying for a refund, please access our dedicated ticket refunds and changes page.

Your train was disrupted?

If your journey was affected by a delay, cancellation, or strike, please visit our delays and disruptions page or UK rail strike page. There, you will find live service information and instructions on how to claim Delay Repay compensation.

* 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.