Birmingham to Chelmsford train with Avanti West Coast

Wed 14 Oct
+ Add return
Avanti West Coast
Chiltern Railways
West Midlands Trains
Great Western Railway
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
Avanti West Coast
Chiltern Railways
West Midlands Trains
Great Western Railway
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest trains from Birmingham to Chelmsford

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 14 Oct

Cheapest price on 14 Oct

£85

Average ticket price on 14 Oct

£98

Fastest journey on 14 Oct

3 h 4 m

Average journey duration on 14 Oct

3 h 22 m

Trains on 14 Oct

3

Distance

182 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Birmingham to Chelmsford is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Birmingham to Chelmsford will cost around £98 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £85.

Fast trains

On Wed 14 Oct, we found 3 trains from Birmingham to Chelmsford, including 3 direct services.

These direct trains cover the 182 km distance in an average of 3 h 22 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 4 m .

The slowest trains will take 3 h 38 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.

  • Avanti West Coast
    6:053h04
    Birmingham
    9:09Chelmsford
    £851One-way
    0 changes
  • Chiltern Railways
    7:453h38
    Birmingham
    11:23Chelmsford
    £951One-way
    0 changes
  • Chiltern Railways
    6:453h23
    Birmingham
    10:08Chelmsford
    £1131One-way
    0 changes

Journey information

Overview: Train from Birmingham to Chelmsford

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Birmingham to Chelmsford run on average 5 times per day, taking around 2h 31m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £67 if you book in advance.

The earliest train runs at 04:55, the last at 21:59. The fastest train covers the 182 km distance in 1h 59m.

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
182 km
Average train duration
2h 31m
Cheapest ticket price
£67
Trains per day
5
Fastest train
1h 59m
First train
4:55
Last train
21:59
Cheapest Month
Oct
Cheapest Day
Fri
High Season
Jul - Sept
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Sun
Best time to book
14 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

Birmingham to Chelmsford train times

The table below shows live departures for Birmingham to Chelmsford trains for today, Tuesday 13 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
Avanti West CoastW34088+Greater AngliaP01318+TubeTube from London Euston to London Liverpool Street
On time
17:47 Birmingham New Street (BHM)
2h40
20:27 Chelmsford station (CHM)
2 changes
Avanti West CoastC01365+Greater AngliaP66045+TubeTube from London Euston to London Liverpool Street
On time
18:17 Birmingham New Street (BHM)
2h51
21:08 Chelmsford station (CHM)
2 changes
Avanti West CoastW34152+TubeTube from London Euston to London Liverpool Street+Greater AngliaP66615
On time
18:21 Birmingham New Street (BHM)
3h00
21:21 Chelmsford station (CHM)
2 changes
Avanti West CoastW33957+TubeTube from London Euston to Stratford (London)+Greater AngliaP01122
On time
18:47 Birmingham New Street (BHM)
2h47
21:34 Chelmsford station (CHM)
2 changes
Avanti West CoastW33957+Greater AngliaP67263+TubeTube from London Euston to London Liverpool Street
On time
18:47 Birmingham New Street (BHM)
2h40
21:27 Chelmsford station (CHM)
2 changes
Avanti West CoastW33957+Greater AngliaP01122+TubeTube from London Euston to Tottenham Court Road (Elizabeth line)+Elizabeth lineC38001
On time
18:47 Birmingham New Street (BHM)
2h47
21:34 Chelmsford station (CHM)
3 changes
CrossCountryG66652+Avanti West CoastW34242+TubeTube from London Euston to Stratford (London)+Greater AngliaP01123
Delayed
17:57 18:52Birmingham New Street (BHM)
3h16
22:08 Chelmsford station (CHM)
3 changes
Avanti West CoastW00587+TubeTube from London Euston to London Liverpool Street+Greater AngliaP66626
On time
19:21 Birmingham New Street (BHM)
3h01
22:22 Chelmsford station (CHM)
2 changes
Avanti West CoastW34045+TubeTube from London Euston to London Liverpool Street+Greater AngliaP67268
On time
19:47 Birmingham New Street (BHM)
2h40
22:27 Chelmsford station (CHM)
2 changes
Wednesday 14 October
Avanti West Coast6:05 Birmingham
3h04
9:09 Chelmsford0 changesdirect
Chiltern Railways6:45 Birmingham
3h23
10:08 Chelmsford0 changesdirect
Chiltern Railways7:45 Birmingham
3h38
11:23 Chelmsford0 changesdirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Birmingham to Chelmsford trains with Omio?

Avanti West Coast as well as Chiltern Railways or West Midlands Trains offer trains services from Birmingham to Chelmsford.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Birmingham to Chelmsford.

Why book with Omio vs Avanti West Coast?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Avanti West Coast, but also compare tickets for the likes of Chiltern Railways or West Midlands Trains to find the best option for your trip from Birmingham to Chelmsford.
  • 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.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Chiltern Railways or West Midlands Trains to find the best option for your trip from Birmingham to Chelmsford.

Train companies: Avanti West Coast, Chiltern Railways, West Midlands Trains from Birmingham to Chelmsford trainsAvanti West Coast, Chiltern Railways, West Midlands Trains trains will get you between Birmingham and Chelmsford from £67. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Avanti West Coast

About
Avanti West Coast is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates high-speed trains between London and major cities in the UK, including Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow and Edinburgh. The company offers a range of ticket types, including Standard, First Class and Advance tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drinks. The most popular routes for Avanti West Coast are London to Birmingham, London to Manchester and London to Glasgow. The company operates a fleet of Pendolino and Super Voyager trains, which offer a smooth and comfortable journey.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Avanti West Coast Duration
1h 59m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
£67
Avanti West Coast frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
First Class: Complimentary meals and drinks. Standard Class: Onboard shop with drinks and snacks
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Standard Class: Optional reservation for £8-12
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/alighting available
Pets
Small pets free in carriers. Dogs £30 per single journey. Guide dogs free
Quiet zone

Chiltern Railways

About
Chiltern Railways is a regional train company in the United Kingdom. Check the different ticket types for your next journey: Duo, Anytime, Season, Super Off Peak, Off Peak and Advance. It operates services from London Marylebone to Birmingham Snow Hill, Oxford, Banbury, Aylesbury, High Wycombe, and Stratford-upon-Avon. It also runs services from Birmingham Moor Street to Stratford-upon-Avon. Chiltern Railways offers a range of train types, including InterCity 125, Class 165 and Class 168 trains. These trains are equipped with comfortable seating, air conditioning, power sockets, and free Wi-Fi. The company offers a variety of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, Off-Peak, and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include a café bar, a shop, and a quiet coach. The most popular routes for Chiltern Railways are London Marylebone to Birmingham Snow Hill, Oxford, and High Wycombe.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Chiltern Railways Duration
2h 58m
Cheapest Chiltern Railways Price
£92
Chiltern Railways frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation for £3. Free for Advance tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets free in carriers. Dogs allowed with lead
Quiet zone

West Midlands Trains

About
West Midlands Trains is a train operator based in the United Kingdom, providing services across the West Midlands region. It operates a variety of train types, including the Class 350 Desiro, Class 323 Electrostar, Class 170 Turbostar, and Class 172 Turbostar. These trains offer a range of onboard facilities, such as free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and air conditioning. Passengers can purchase a range of tickets, including single, return, and season tickets. The most popular routes operated by West Midlands Trains include Birmingham to London Euston, Birmingham to Wolverhampton, and Birmingham to Coventry.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average West Midlands Trains Duration
3h 20m
Cheapest West Midlands Trains Price
£67
West Midlands Trains frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for an additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs require a ticket at 50% of adult fare. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone

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

Chelmsford Museum

City museum in Oaklands House covering Chelmsford's archaeology, industry and local life. Good for a clear introduction to the area.

  • 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.

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.

Best day trips from Chelmsford by train

The most popular day trips by train from Chelmsford are London, Colchester, Southend-on-Sea, Ipswich and Norwich. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your train from Chelmsford on Omio.

A view of London

Day trip from Chelmsford to London by train

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 train?

There are 8 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 48 km distance in 29m.

A view of Colchester

Day trip from Chelmsford to Colchester by train

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 train?

There are 14 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:11, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 34 km distance in 18m.

A view of Southend-on-Sea

Day trip from Chelmsford to Southend-on-Sea by train

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 train?

The earliest train runs at 05:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 28 km distance in 44m.

A view of Ipswich

Day trip from Chelmsford to Ipswich by train

Why visit Ipswich for the day?

Ipswich is one of England’s oldest towns, known for its waterfront and maritime past. Its medieval streets, parks and Suffolk atmosphere make it feel historic yet lived-in.

How to get from Chelmsford to Ipswich by train?

There are 7 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:56. The fastest train covers the 59 km distance in 37m.

A view of Norwich

Day trip from Chelmsford to Norwich by train

Why visit Norwich for the day?

Norwich is known for its Norman cathedral, medieval lanes and strong independent character. Its historic market, literary links and mix of old churches and creative spaces give it a lively but relaxed feel.

How to get from Chelmsford to Norwich by train?

There are 5 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:02, the last at 23:54. The fastest train covers the 114 km distance in 1h 15m.

FAQs: Birmingham to Chelmsford train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Birmingham to Chelmsford by train. 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 train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Chelmsford, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
The cost of a train ticket from Birmingham to Chelmsford can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £67, while the average price tends to be around £98.
The train journey from Birmingham to Chelmsford covers a distance of 182 km and takes approximately 1h 59m. Trains run 5 per day.
The train distance from Birmingham to Chelmsford is 182 km.
The first train from Birmingham to Chelmsford leaves at 4:55.
The last train from Birmingham to Chelmsford departs at 21:59.
Trains from Birmingham to Chelmsford run approximately 5 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Birmingham to Chelmsford.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Birmingham to Chelmsford.
There is no night train service from Birmingham to Chelmsford.
The train station in Birmingham that goes to Chelmsford is Birmingham New Street (BHM), and it arrives at Chelmsford station (CHM).
Booking trains from Birmingham to Chelmsford in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Birmingham to Chelmsford offers a mix of urban and rural views, with stretches of picturesque countryside, quaint villages, and glimpses of historical architecture along the way.
Yes, you can take the train from Birmingham to Chelmsford.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Birmingham and Chelmsford

Most Birmingham to Chelmsford trains use the Birmingham New Street to Chelmsford station pair. Use this guide to compare Birmingham and Chelmsford train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Birmingham
Arrival train stations in Chelmsford
Birmingham New StreetStation Street, Birmingham, West Midlands, B2 4QA, United Kingdom+44 3457114141WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Birmingham New Street from Birmingham city centre

Bus16 · 7m · £2 · every ~27 min

Birmingham New Street train station facilities and services

Birmingham New Street has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food options include: All Bar One, Leon, Caffè Nero, Five Guys, Krispy Kreme, The Pasty Shop, Upper Crust, Wasabi, Starbucks, Hotel Chocolat

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Pay as you go Wi-Fi is available from Sky Wi-Fi The Cloud. ATMs are aTM machines are located on the paid concourse.

Tickets and information

The ticket office is open Mon - Sat: 05:15 - 23:00, Sun: 07:30 - 23:00. Information desks are in the middle of the station.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is you can leave bags with Excess Baggage Co inside the entrance off Hill Street. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Birmingham New Street: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Birmingham New Street: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Birmingham New Street: Step-free access in the whole station and ramps available for train access. All platforms have elevators and escalators.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Holiday Inn Birmingham City Center, Premier Inn Birmingham City Center (New St Station), Radisson Blue Hotel, Birmingham.

Birmingham Moor StreetBirmingham Moor Street station, Queensway, Birmingham, West Midlands, B4 7ULWifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Birmingham Moor Street from Birmingham city centre

TrainBirmingham Snow Hill - Whitlocks End, Birmingham Snow Hill - Stratford-upon-Avon, Worcester Foregate Street - Stratford-upon-Avon, Worcester Shrub Hill - Stratford-upon-Avon, Worcester Shrub Hill - Birmingham Moor Street, Worcester Foregate Street - Birmingham Moor Street, Worcester Shrub Hill - Dorridge, Stourbridge Junction - Dorridge, Birmingham Snow Hill - Dorridge, Worcester Foregate Street - Dorridge, Worcester Foregate Street - Leamington Spa, Birmingham Snow Hill - Leamington Spa, Worcester Shrub Hill - Leamington Spa, Kidderminster - Stratford-upon-Avon, Kidderminster - Whitlocks End, Stourbridge Junction - Stratford-upon-Avon, Worcester Foregate Street - Whitlocks End · 2m · £1 · every ~7 min
Bus16 · 13m · £2 · every ~27 min
TramMetro · 16m · every ~15 min

Birmingham Moor Street train station facilities and services

Birmingham Moor Street has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental and Car Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Birmingham Moor Street.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Birmingham Moor Street. ATMs are available at Birmingham Moor Street.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Birmingham Moor Street.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Birmingham Moor Street: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Birmingham Moor Street: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Birmingham Moor Street: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step Free Access Category A. Step free access to all platforms, Accessible taxis: If you would like us to assist you in booking an accessible taxi for your onward journey please contact 03456 005 165, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.

Birmingham Snow HillBirmingham Snow Hill station, Colmore Row, Birmingham, West Midlands, B3 2BJShoppingParkingDiningAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Birmingham Snow Hill from Birmingham city centre

Bus52 · 0m · £2 · every ~18 min

Birmingham Snow Hill train station facilities and services

Birmingham Snow Hill has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Birmingham Snow Hill.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Birmingham Snow Hill. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0800 0248998, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Birmingham Snow Hill: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Birmingham Snow Hill: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Birmingham Snow Hill: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are not available, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: A Ticket Vending Machine is available on the station concourse, by the Ticket Office, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.

More options for your journey from Birmingham to Chelmsford

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy

We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone