- Must visit
Ipswich Museum
Ipswich’s main museum with natural history, archaeology and local collections, including Egyptian objects and displays on Suffolk’s past.
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The cheapest and fastest coaches from Chelmsford to Ipswich
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 18 Sept
Cheapest price on 18 Sept
£0.00
Average ticket price on 18 Sept
£-0.01
Fastest journey on 18 Sept
2 h 31 m
Average journey duration on 18 Sept
2 h 40 m
Buses on 18 Sept
7
Distance
59 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap coach ticket from Chelmsford to Ipswich is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
Fast coaches
To travel from Chelmsford to Ipswich you need to make at least 2 changes.
7:542h31Chelmsford10:25IpswichFind prices2 changes- 10:152h35Chelmsford12:50IpswichFind prices2 changes
- 12:452h45Chelmsford15:30IpswichFind prices2 changes
- 14:352h55Chelmsford17:30IpswichFind prices2 changes
- 17:122h33Chelmsford19:45IpswichFind prices2 changes
- 7:542h31Chelmsford10:25IpswichFind prices2 changes
- 17:122h33Chelmsford19:45IpswichFind prices2 changes
- 10:152h35Chelmsford12:50IpswichFind prices2 changes
- 12:452h45Chelmsford15:30IpswichFind prices2 changes
- 14:352h55Chelmsford17:30IpswichFind prices2 changes
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Chelmsford to Ipswich
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chelmsford to Ipswich among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £14 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 1h 14m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £14, while a train costs an average of £18.
Distance: 59 km
Compare bus with
| Coach | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
£14 Average Price Cheapest | £18 Average Price | £12 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 6m Average total duration 1h 36m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 14m Average total duration Fastest 44m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 54m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Chelmsford to Ipswich is a train with an average price of £11.
This is compared to other travel options from Chelmsford to Ipswich:
A train is £4 less than a coach for this route with tickets for a coach from Chelmsford to Ipswich costing on average £14.
The fastest way to travel from Chelmsford to Ipswich is by train with an average journey time of 42m.
Other travel options to Ipswich take longer:
Coach takes on average 1h 36m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Chelmsford and Ipswich including taking a train and coach.
Take the bus. It's the cheapest way to make this trip, and the price gap is usually bigger than people expect.
Tickets start at around £14 compared to roughly £12 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about £-2.91. The journey takes 1h 36m versus 54m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.
Live departures
Chelmsford to Ipswich bus times
The table below shows live departures for Chelmsford to Ipswich coaches for today, Thursday 17 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated coach journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 FlixBus | 21:20 Chelmsford, Station (Stand VA) | 1h45 | 23:05 Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema) | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Chelmsford to Ipswich by train or coach
Compare train and coach 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.
Fri
18 Sept
18 Sept
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19 Sept
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20 Sept
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21 Sept
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Journey information
Overview: Bus from Chelmsford to Ipswich
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Chelmsford to Ipswich run on average 8 times per day, taking around 1h 36m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at £7 but you can travel from only £7 by train.
The earliest coach runs at 03:50, the last at 23:42. The fastest coach covers the 59 km distance in 1h 13m.
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
Train from £7
Distance 59 km |
Average bus duration 1h 36m |
Cheapest ticket price £7 |
Buses per day 8 |
Fastest bus 1h 13m |
First bus 3:50 |
Last bus 23:42 |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sept |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 2 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
Train from £7
Bus providers: First Essex from Chelmsford to IpswichYou can travel by bus between Chelmsford to Ipswich with First Essex for as low as £7. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
First Essex
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average First Essex Duration
2h 1m
First Essex frequency
6 a day
Complete guide to Ipswich
Things to do in Ipswich
Discover the best of Ipswich — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Ipswich trip today.
- Must visit
Christchurch Mansion
Gallery in Christchurch Mansion showing works by Constable and Gainsborough, plus changing exhibitions in a historic setting.
- Recommended
The Hold: Ipswich Waterfront
Museum on the redeveloped docks telling the story of Ipswich’s maritime trade, industry and local life through interactive displays.
- Must visit
Ipswich Waterfront
Lively regenerated marina with quayside walks, historic warehouses and wide views; ideal for a relaxed stroll by the water.
- Must visit
Christchurch Park
Large public park with formal gardens, ponds and open lawns around Christchurch Mansion; a favourite green escape near the centre.
- Recommended
Cornhill
Historic square at the civic heart of Ipswich, framed by notable buildings and often used for markets, events and seasonal displays.
Suffolk Sausage
A hearty Suffolk pork sausage, traditionally seasoned with sage and pepper. It is a long-standing county speciality often served with mash or in a sandwich.
- Gluten-free
Suffolk Ham
Cured ham from Suffolk, usually dry-cured and sliced thin. It reflects the county’s strong pork-curing tradition and is a popular local deli staple.
- Gluten-free
Smoked Herring
Smoked herring from the nearby Suffolk coast, especially linked with Lowestoft. Traditionally eaten for breakfast or in fish dishes with a deep smoky flavour.
Melekzade
Well-known Turkish restaurant with grilled meats, meze and warm service in a lively yet comfortable dining room.
Indian Knight
Established Indian restaurant known for refined curries and attentive service in an elegant setting.
The Last Anchor
Stylish marina restaurant serving modern British food, steaks and seafood in a relaxed waterfront setting.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate by UK standards. Hotels and dining cost less than London, while buses and casual meals are fairly affordable for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a basic lunch.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is sometimes included in restaurants; otherwise tip about 10% for good service. Taxi fares can be rounded up. Tipping in cafés is optional.
Ipswich Buses App
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.30
- Day pass
- £4.40
To the city centre
Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema), Ipswich -> Tower Ramparts Bus Station, Ipswich
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Contactless payment is accepted on board Ipswich Buses for single, transfer, return, day and family tickets.
- Town fares apply within the Ipswich town zone; adult Town Single is £2.30 and Town Day is £4.40.
FAQs: Chelmsford to Ipswich coach
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chelmsford to Ipswich by coach. 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 coach, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Ipswich, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap coach tickets from Chelmsford to Ipswich can start from as little as £7 when you book in advance. The average coach ticket price for Chelmsford to Ipswich is £14; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by coach from Chelmsford to Ipswich is 1h 13m to travel the 59 km long route. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest coach from Chelmsford to Ipswich leaves at 3:50. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest coach from Chelmsford to Ipswich leaves at 23:42.
There are 8 coaches a day from Chelmsford to Ipswich which require at least one change with First Essex. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer coaches.
When taking a coach from Chelmsford to Ipswich, you can count on First Essex for the best way to get you to Ipswich. You can also check all possible coach companies who offer a service between Chelmsford and Ipswich and compare the amenities they offer before buying a coach ticket.
Passengers board the coach most frequently from Chelmsford, Station (Stand VA), which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the coach at Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema), located 0 away from the city centre.
A day trip to Ipswich from Chelmsford is worth doing with a journey time of 1h 13m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a coach from Chelmsford to Ipswich is January.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Chelmsford and Ipswich including taking a train and coach.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the coach from Chelmsford to Ipswich.
No, the coach from Chelmsford to Ipswich has no accessibility options.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the coach from Chelmsford to Ipswich.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the coach from Chelmsford to Ipswich.
No, luggage for the coach from Chelmsford to Ipswich needs to be booked in addition.
No, there are no additional luggage options for the coach from Chelmsford to Ipswich.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the coach from Chelmsford to Ipswich.
No, there are no USB plugs on board the coach from Chelmsford to Ipswich.
No, there is no WiFi on board the coach from Chelmsford to Ipswich.
popular bus stations
Important Stations and Airports in Chelmsford and Ipswich
Most Chelmsford to Ipswich buses use the Chelmsford, Station (Stand VA) to Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema) station pair. Use this guide to compare Chelmsford and Ipswich bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Chelmsford
Arrival bus stations in Ipswich
Which Chelmsford station do buses to Ipswich leave from?
Buses from Chelmsford to Ipswich leave from Chelmsford, Station (Stand VA). The station is from Chelmsford city centre at Chelmsford Station (Stand VA), Chelmsford CM1 1NY, UK.
Chelmsford, Station (Stand VA)Chelmsford Station (Stand VA), Chelmsford CM1 1NY, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Chelmsford, Station (Stand VA) from Chelmsford city centre
TRUE
Chelmsford, Station (Stand VA) bus station facilities and services
Chelmsford, Station (Stand VA) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Chelmsford, Station (Stand VA). ATMs are available at Chelmsford, Station (Stand VA).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Chelmsford, Station (Stand VA).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Chelmsford, Station (Stand VA): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Chelmsford, Station (Stand VA): Station is accessible for those with reduced mobility.
Which Ipswich station do buses from Chelmsford arrive at?
Buses from Chelmsford to Ipswich arrive at Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema). Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema) is 1 km from Ipswich city centre.
Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema)Cardinal Park Cinema, Ipswich IP1 1AX, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema) from Ipswich city centre
TRUE
Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema) bus station facilities and services
Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurants available near Cardinal Park Cinema.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema). ATMs are available at Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema): Bus stop accessible for wheelchairs.
More options for your journey from Chelmsford to Ipswich
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Ipswich and Chelmsford
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