- Recommended
Chelmsford Museum
City museum in Oaklands House covering Chelmsford's archaeology, industry and local life. Good for a clear introduction to the area.
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The cheapest and fastest coaches from Ipswich to Chelmsford
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 14 Oct
Cheapest price on 14 Oct
£0
Average ticket price on 14 Oct
-£0
Fastest journey on 14 Oct
2 h 16 m
Average journey duration on 14 Oct
2 h 29 m
Buses on 14 Oct
8
Distance
59 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap coach ticket from Ipswich to Chelmsford is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
Fast coaches
To travel from Ipswich to Chelmsford you need to make at least 2 changes.
2:303h11Ipswich5:41ChelmsfordFind prices2 changes- 5:302h31Ipswich8:01ChelmsfordFind prices2 changes
- 7:452h41Ipswich10:26ChelmsfordFind prices2 changes
- 11:302h25Ipswich13:55ChelmsfordFind prices2 changes
- 13:302h16Ipswich15:46ChelmsfordFind prices2 changes
- 13:302h16Ipswich15:46ChelmsfordFind prices2 changes
- 11:302h25Ipswich13:55ChelmsfordFind prices2 changes
- 5:302h31Ipswich8:01ChelmsfordFind prices2 changes
- 15:502h33Ipswich18:23ChelmsfordFind prices2 changes
- 7:452h41Ipswich10:26ChelmsfordFind prices2 changes
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Ipswich to Chelmsford
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Ipswich to Chelmsford run on average 1 times per day, taking around 1h 40m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at £7 if you book in advance.
There are 1 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 01:31, the last at 23:42. The fastest coach covers the 59 km distance in 1h 40m.
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 59 km |
Average bus duration 1h 40m |
Cheapest ticket price £7 |
Buses per day 1 |
Direct buses 1 |
Fastest bus 1h 40m |
First bus 1:31 |
Last bus 23:42 |
Cheapest Month Sept |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 4 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
Live departures
Ipswich to Chelmsford bus times
The table below shows live departures for Ipswich to Chelmsford coaches for tomorrow, Wednesday 14 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated coach journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2:30 Ipswich | 3h11 | 5:41 Chelmsford | 2 changes | |
| 5:30 Ipswich | 2h31 | 8:01 Chelmsford | 2 changes | |
| 7:45 Ipswich | 2h41 | 10:26 Chelmsford | 2 changes | |
| 11:30 Ipswich | 2h25 | 13:55 Chelmsford | 2 changes | |
| 13:30 Ipswich | 2h16 | 15:46 Chelmsford | 2 changes | |
| 15:50 Ipswich | 2h33 | 18:23 Chelmsford | 2 changes | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Ipswich to Chelmsford coaches with Omio?
FlixBus operates all coaches services from Ipswich to Chelmsford.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Ipswich to Chelmsford.
Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?
- 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.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare FlixBus with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Ipswich to Chelmsford.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Ipswich to Chelmsford.
Bus providers: FlixBus from Ipswich to ChelmsfordYou can travel by bus between Ipswich to Chelmsford with FlixBus for as low as £7. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
FlixBus
About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average FlixBus Duration
1h 40m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
£7
FlixBus frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.
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
Sandford Mill Museum
Museum on the historic radio works site exploring Marconi, wireless innovation and broadcasting. A strong choice for technology enthusiasts.
The Essex Regiment Museum
Railway museum at Chelmsford station with artefacts, signalling history and volunteer displays. Small but engaging for transport fans.
- Must visit
Hylands Estate
Large historic estate with landscaped parkland, lakes, woods and gardens. Ideal for long walks, events and a classic Chelmsford day out.
- Recommended
Central Park
Popular city-centre park with riverside paths, flower beds and open lawns. A convenient place for a gentle walk near shops and museums.
- Recommended
Writtle Green
Attractive village green lined with historic buildings and a duck pond. A relaxed local favourite for a short stroll just west of the city.
Saffron Walden Sausage
A traditional pork sausage from nearby Saffron Walden, flavoured with sage and pepper. It is a classic Essex butcher’s sausage often served with mash or in breakfasts.
- Vegetarian
Essex Apple Tart
An old Essex apple tart made with local cooking apples, sugar and pastry. It reflects the county’s orchard heritage and is a familiar regional pudding.
- Gluten-free
Essex White Cheese
A soft white cheese traditionally made in Essex from cow’s milk. It is mild, fresh and closely linked with the county’s farming and cheesemaking history.
Turquoise Kitchen
Popular independent Turkish restaurant serving charcoal grills, meze and warm hospitality in a stylish yet casual setting.
The County Kitchen
Smart contemporary restaurant in central Chelmsford serving modern British dishes with polished service in a relaxed city setting.
Pontlands Park Restaurant
Refined hotel dining room at Pontlands Park with seasonal British cooking and a traditional country house atmosphere.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for England: hotels and dining are cheaper than London, but rail fares and central stays can still raise daily visitor costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service may be included in restaurants; otherwise tip around 10%. Taxis often round up or add 10%. Tipping in cafés is optional.
First Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.50
- Day pass
- £7.00
To the city centre
Chelmsford, Station (Stand VA) -> Chelmsford Bus Station
- Distance
- 0.4 km
- Travel time
- 6 min
- First Bus in Chelmsford accepts contactless payment on board, and Tap & Cap ensures you do not pay more than the Chelmsford day ticket cap.
- Chelmsford Bus Station is next to the railway station, so changing between rail and local buses is straightforward.
Best day trips from Chelmsford by bus
The most popular day trips by bus from Chelmsford are London, Colchester, Southend-on-Sea and Cambridge. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your bus from Chelmsford on Omio.
Day trip from Chelmsford to London by bus
Why visit London for the day?
London blends royal history with modern city life, known for its museums, theatre and global food scene. Along the Thames, grand landmarks sit beside diverse neighbourhoods shaped by finance, fashion and contemporary culture.
How to get from Chelmsford to London by bus?
There are 1 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 00:02, the last at 23:55. The fastest coach covers the 48 km distance in 1h 5m.
Day trip from Chelmsford to Colchester by bus
Why visit Colchester for the day?
Colchester is an Essex city known as Britain’s oldest recorded town, with Roman roots and a prominent castle. Its historic core, modern cultural venues and easy-going atmosphere make it well suited to a relaxed visit.
How to get from Chelmsford to Colchester by bus?
The earliest coach runs at 03:42, the last at 23:57.
Day trip from Chelmsford to Southend-on-Sea by bus
Why visit Southend-on-Sea for the day?
Southend-on-Sea is an Essex seaside city best known for its long pleasure pier and traditional seafront atmosphere. Amusements, beaches and estuary views give it the feel of a classic British day out.
How to get from Chelmsford to Southend-on-Sea by bus?
The earliest coach runs at 06:00, the last at 23:05.
Day trip from Chelmsford to Cambridge by bus
Why visit Cambridge for the day?
Cambridge is a historic university city on the River Cam, known for its colleges and punting. Its compact centre, museums and green spaces give it an academic yet lively feel.
How to get from Chelmsford to Cambridge by bus?
The earliest coach runs at 03:35, the last at 22:50.
FAQs: Ipswich to Chelmsford coach
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Ipswich to Chelmsford 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 Chelmsford, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap coach tickets from Ipswich to Chelmsford can start from as little as £7 when you book in advance. The average coach ticket price for Ipswich to Chelmsford is £7; 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 Ipswich to Chelmsford is 1h 40m 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 Ipswich to Chelmsford leaves at 1:31. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest coach from Ipswich to Chelmsford leaves at 23:42.
Yes, there are 1 direct coaches a day from Ipswich to Chelmsford with FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct coaches.
When taking a coach from Ipswich to Chelmsford, you can count on FlixBus for the best way to get you to Chelmsford. You can also check all possible coach companies who offer a service between Ipswich and Chelmsford and compare the amenities they offer before buying a coach ticket.
Passengers board the coach most frequently from Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema), which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the coach at Chelmsford, Station (Stand VA), located 0 away from the city centre.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Ipswich and Chelmsford including taking a train and coach.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the coach from Ipswich to Chelmsford:
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the coach from Ipswich to Chelmsford for coach company FlixBus.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the coach with coach company FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your coach ticket from Ipswich to Chelmsford depends on the coach companies:
- FlixBus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
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.
No, there is no food available to purchase on board the coach from Ipswich to Chelmsford.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a coach ticket from Ipswich to Chelmsford:
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a coach ticket from Ipswich to Chelmsford:
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the coach from Ipswich to Chelmsford. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the coach from Ipswich to Chelmsford with the following coach company: FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the coach from Ipswich to Chelmsford with the following coach company: FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the coach from Ipswich to Chelmsford with the following coach company: FlixBus.
popular bus stations
Important Stations and Airports in Ipswich and Chelmsford
Most Ipswich to Chelmsford buses use the Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema) to Chelmsford, Station (Stand VA) station pair. Use this guide to compare Ipswich and Chelmsford bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Ipswich
Arrival bus stations in Chelmsford
Which Ipswich station do buses to Chelmsford leave from?
Buses from Ipswich to Chelmsford leave from Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema). The station is 1 km from Ipswich city centre at Cardinal Park Cinema, Ipswich IP1 1AX, UK.
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.
Which Chelmsford station do buses from Ipswich arrive at?
Buses from Ipswich to Chelmsford arrive at Chelmsford, Station (Stand VA). Chelmsford, Station (Stand VA) is from Chelmsford city centre.
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.
Most popular bus connections from Ipswich
More options for your journey from Ipswich to Chelmsford
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Chelmsford and Ipswich
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