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Colchester to Shenfield train times and prices
* 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
£19.07
On Tue 27
Live timetable and departures
The journey from Colchester to Shenfield on the fastest train in 31m, usually 38m. Each day, 25 trains leave from Colchester, starting at 05:44 and ending at 23:02. Get real-time updates on train schedules, delays, and cancellations. Save time, effort, and money with TrainPal.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
06:42 Colchester | 40m, 1 change | 07:22 Shenfield | Greater Anglia | Find tickets |
06:49 Colchester | 45m, Direct | 07:34 Shenfield | Greater Anglia | Find tickets |
07:04 Colchester | 38m, Direct | 07:42 Shenfield | Greater Anglia | Find tickets |
07:18 Colchester | 35m, Direct | 07:53 Shenfield | Greater Anglia | Find tickets |
07:48 Colchester | 38m, Direct | 08:26 Shenfield | Greater Anglia | Find tickets |
Travelling with Greater Anglia from Colchester to Shenfield
Standard
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 Shenfield
Address:
Hutton Road, Shenfield, Essex, CM15 8JD
Onward Transit Options:
Bus: Local bus services stop on Hutton Road directly outside the station, with connections to Brentwood, Chelmsford and surrounding areas.
Taxi: A licensed taxi rank is located right outside on Hutton Road.
Car: A station car park is available on Hutton Road, with both short and long-stay options. During peak commuter hours, pre-booking is recommended.
Top Things to Do & Nearby Attractions:
Shenfield High Street (5-minute walk)
Brentwood town centre (10 minutes by bus or taxi)
Hylands Park, Chelmsford (approximately 20 minutes by train and taxi)
Thorndon Country Park ( approximately 15 minutes by taxi)
Southend-on-Sea (approximately 30 minutes by train)
Airport Transfers:
Take the Elizabeth line direct from Shenfield to Heathrow Terminal 5. With no changes required, you can be there in approximately 1 hour 25 minutes. For Southend Airport, you can take a direct Greater Anglia service, the journey takes just under half an hour.
TrainPal's Travel Expert Experience
"Shenfield is one of the Elizabeth line’s two eastern termini, meaning you can travel direct from here to Liverpool Street, Paddington and Heathrow Terminal 5 without changing trains. For food near the station, God’s Own Pizza and The Lot Bar and Restaurant are both excellent independent options just a short walk away. Need a last-minute gift? Casablanca Florist and Liquorice wine store are both just a short walk down Hutton Road."
FAQs: Shenfield Station
What tube line goes to Shenfield?
Shenfield is served by the Elizabeth line (purple line on the TfL map), an express line which connects directly to central London, Paddington and Heathrow. Greater Anglia also operates mainline services from Shenfield to Liverpool Street and Stratford, as well as Chelmsford, Colchester and Norwich.
Does the Elizabeth line run from Shenfield?
Yes, Shenfield is one of the Elizabeth line’s two eastern termini. Services run direct from Shenfield to Liverpool Street, London Paddington and Heathrow Terminal 5, making it one of the best connected suburban stations in Essex.
How do I get from Shenfield to London?
The fastest option is a Greater Anglia train, with direct services to Liverpool Street in approximately 23 minutes. The Elizabeth line also operates frequent services to Liverpool Street on the same route in around 43 minutes.
Is the Elizabeth line to Shenfield open?
Yes, Elizabeth line services to and from Shenfield are fully operational, running to Liverpool Street, Paddington and Heathrow Terminal 5. Services run frequently throughout the day, with reduced frequency late at night and on Sundays.
FAQ
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How much is a train from Colchester to Shenfield?
Tickets from Colchester to Shenfield typically cost £19.07, but can be as cheap as £19.07 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 Shenfield?
The journey should take, on average, 38m, though it can be as quick as 31m 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 Shenfield?
Yes, there is a direct train between Colchester and Shenfield. 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 Shenfield?
You can typically book tickets from Colchester to Shenfield up to 12 weeks before departure.
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Do Colchester to Shenfield trains offer Wi-Fi?
Yes, most trains on the route from Colchester to Shenfield 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 Shenfield?
The distance between Colchester and Shenfield is approximately 30 miles (49km), depending on the specific stations you travel between.
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How frequent are trains from Colchester to Shenfield?
There is 25 train running from Colchester to Shenfield 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 Shenfield?
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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