Birmingham to Colchester train with Chiltern Railways

Mon 02 Nov
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Avanti West Coast
Chiltern Railways
CrossCountry
West Midlands Trains
Greater Anglia
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Avanti West Coast
Chiltern Railways
CrossCountry
West Midlands Trains
Greater Anglia
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Birmingham to Colchester

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 02 Nov
Cheapest price on 02 Nov
£73
Average ticket price on 02 Nov
£83
Fastest journey on 02 Nov
2 h 59 m
Average journey duration on 02 Nov
3 h 7 m
Trains on 02 Nov
4
Distance
202 km
Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Birmingham to Colchester will cost around £83 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £73.

Fast trains

To travel from Birmingham to Colchester you need to make at least 2 changes.

  • Avanti West CoastW33942+TubeTube from London Euston to London Liverpool Street+Greater AngliaP01250
    2 changes
  • Avanti West CoastW34207+Greater AngliaP01245+TubeTube from London Euston to London Liverpool Street
    2 changes
  • Avanti West CoastW33891+Greater AngliaP01241+TubeTube from London Euston to London Liverpool Street
    2 changes
  • Avanti West CoastW34115+TubeTube from London Euston to London Liverpool Street+Greater AngliaP01236
    2 changes

Journey information

Overview: Train from Birmingham to Colchester

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Birmingham to Colchester run on average 8 times per day, taking around 3h 7m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £41 if you book in advance.

The earliest train runs at 03:42, the last at 21:36. The fastest train covers the 202 km distance in 2h 17m.

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
202 km
Average train duration
3h 7m
Cheapest ticket price
£41
Trains per day
8
Fastest train
2h 17m
First train
3:42
Last train
21:36
Cheapest Month
Jul
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Sun
Least Busy Day
Sat
Best time to book
28 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

Frequently asked questions about your Birmingham to Colchester trip

Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Birmingham to Colchester.

The cost of a train ticket from Birmingham to Colchester can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £41, while the average price tends to be around £80.
The train journey from Birmingham to Colchester covers a distance of 202 km and takes approximately 2h 17m. Trains run 8 per day.
The train distance from Birmingham to Colchester is 202 km.
The first train from Birmingham to Colchester leaves at 3:42.
The last train from Birmingham to Colchester departs at 21:36.
Trains from Birmingham to Colchester run approximately 8 times per day.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Birmingham to Colchester.

Live departures

Birmingham to Colchester train times

The table below shows live departures for Birmingham to Colchester trains for today, Sunday 1 November. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
Avanti West CoastW33312+TubeTube from London Euston to London Liverpool Street+Greater AngliaP01247
On time
8:26 Birmingham New Street (BHM)
3h50
12:16 Colchester station (COL)
2 changes
Chiltern RailwaysL38470+TubeTube from London Marylebone to London Liverpool Street+Greater AngliaP01247
On time
8:28 Birmingham Moor Street (BMO)
3h48
12:16 Colchester station (COL)
2 changes
Avanti West CoastW33035+TubeTube from London Euston to London Liverpool Street+Greater AngliaP67209
On time
8:56 Birmingham New Street (BHM)
4h15
13:11 Colchester station (COL)
2 changes
Avanti West CoastW33206+TubeTube from London Euston to London Liverpool Street+Greater AngliaP01256
On time
9:30 Birmingham New Street (BHM)
3h46
13:16 Colchester station (COL)
2 changes
Chiltern RailwaysL38492+TubeTube from London Marylebone to London Liverpool Street+Greater AngliaP67213
On time
9:42 Birmingham Moor Street (BMO)
4h29
14:11 Colchester station (COL)
2 changes
Avanti West CoastW33176+TubeTube from London Euston to London Liverpool Street+Greater AngliaP01265
On time
10:30 Birmingham New Street (BHM)
3h46
14:16 Colchester station (COL)
2 changes
Avanti West CoastW33168+TubeTube from London Euston to London Liverpool Street+Greater AngliaP01274
On time
12:17 Birmingham New Street (BHM)
2h59
15:16 Colchester station (COL)
2 changes
Avanti West CoastW33225+TubeTube from London Euston to London Liverpool Street+Greater AngliaP67221
On time
12:21 Birmingham New Street (BHM)
3h50
16:11 Colchester station (COL)
2 changes
Avanti West CoastW33371+TubeTube from London Euston to London Liverpool Street+Greater AngliaP01282
On time
13:17 Birmingham New Street (BHM)
2h59
16:16 Colchester station (COL)
2 changes
Avanti West CoastW33342+TubeTube from London Euston to London Liverpool Street+Greater AngliaP67225
On time
13:21 Birmingham New Street (BHM)
3h50
17:11 Colchester station (COL)
2 changes
Chiltern RailwaysL38489+TubeTube from London Marylebone to London Liverpool Street+Greater AngliaP67229
On time
13:41 Birmingham Moor Street (BMO)
4h30
18:11 Colchester station (COL)
2 changes
Avanti West CoastC01364+TubeTube from London Euston to London Liverpool Street+Greater AngliaP01290+West Midlands TrainsY80830
Delayed
14:28 14:06Birmingham New Street (BHM)
3h10
17:16 Colchester station (COL)
3 changes
Avanti West CoastC01364+TubeTube from London Euston to London Liverpool Street+Greater AngliaP01290
On time
14:17 Birmingham New Street (BHM)
2h59
17:16 Colchester station (COL)
2 changes
Avanti West CoastC01300+TubeTube from London Euston to London Liverpool Street+Greater AngliaP67229
On time
14:21 Birmingham New Street (BHM)
3h50
18:11 Colchester station (COL)
2 changes

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Birmingham to Colchester trains with Omio?

Avanti West Coast as well as Chiltern Railways, CrossCountry, West Midlands Trains, Greater Anglia and more offer trains services from Birmingham to Colchester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Birmingham to Colchester.

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, CrossCountry, West Midlands Trains or Greater Anglia to find the best option for your trip from Birmingham to Colchester.
  • 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 Avanti West Coast with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Birmingham to Colchester.

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, CrossCountry, West Midlands Trains or Greater Anglia to find the best option for your trip from Birmingham to Colchester.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Birmingham to Colchester.

Train companies: Chiltern Railways, Avanti West Coast, West Midlands Trains, CrossCountry, Greater Anglia from Birmingham to Colchester trainsChiltern Railways, Avanti West Coast, West Midlands Trains, CrossCountry, Greater Anglia trains will get you between Birmingham and Colchester from £41. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

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
3h 6m
Cheapest Chiltern Railways Price
£42
Chiltern Railways frequency
4 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

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
2h 17m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
£42
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

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
2h 48m
Cheapest West Midlands Trains Price
£41
West Midlands Trains frequency
2 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

CrossCountry

About
CrossCountry is a fast-speed train operator in the United Kingdom, offering both express and regional services across the country. Express services, such as the CrossCountry Voyager and XC Trains, provide quick and comfortable journeys with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. Regional services, including the CrossCountry Regional and Regional Express, make more local stops for a leisurely trip. Ticket options include Standard Class and First Class, as well as Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak fares to suit different budgets and schedules. Popular routes include London to Birmingham, Manchester to Edinburgh, and Bristol to Reading.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average CrossCountry Duration
3h 17m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
£59
CrossCountry frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone

Greater Anglia

About
Greater Anglia is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from commuter trains to intercity services. The commuter trains run at regular intervals throughout the day, while the intercity services run at peak times. The train types include the InterCity 125, InterCity 225, Class 90, Class 91, Class 360 and Class 379. The ticket types available are Standard, First Class and Advance. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, air conditioning and refreshment trolleys. The most popular routes for Greater Anglia are London Liverpool Street to Norwich, London Liverpool Street to Cambridge and London Liverpool Street to Ipswich.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Greater Anglia Duration
3h 48m
Cheapest Greater Anglia Price
£80
Greater Anglia frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
Two items of luggage per person included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar service on intercity routes with hot and cold drinks, snacks. No service on local routes.
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee. Free for First Class tickets.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs require a ticket (£6 flat fee). Guide dogs travel free.
Quiet zone

Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Birmingham and Colchester

Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.

Yes, there is a high-speed train service from Birmingham to Colchester.
There is no night train service from Birmingham to Colchester.

Complete guide to Colchester

Things to do in Colchester

Discover the best of Colchester — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Colchester trip today.

  • Must visit

Colchester Castle Museum

Main city museum inside the castle, covering Roman Colchester, local archaeology and later history in a dramatic historic setting.

  • Recommended

The Natural History Museum

Natural history museum in a former church, with displays on Essex wildlife, geology and environment, suited to families and curious visitors.

  • Recommended

Hollytrees Museum

Museum charting the city’s social history, from everyday objects to changing local life, housed in a restored historic building.

British pound sterling (£)

Moderate for England: hotels and dining cost less than London, but more than smaller UK towns. Buses are reasonable; central sightseeing is mostly low cost.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
Mid-range
£18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£50+ per person for upscale restaurants.
Coffee
£2.80-4 for cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service is sometimes included. If not, tip about 10% in restaurants for good service. Taxis are often rounded up or tipped 10%. Cafés usually do not expect tips, but small change is appreciated.

Plan your visit to Colchester

Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Colchester.

The train journey from Birmingham to Colchester mainly travels through urban and suburban areas, with some segments offering views of the English countryside, including fields and small towns, but it is not typically considered one of the most scenic routes in the UK.

FAQs: Birmingham to Colchester train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Birmingham to Colchester 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 Colchester, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Booking trains from Birmingham to Colchester in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
Yes, you can take the train from Birmingham to Colchester.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Birmingham and Colchester

Most Birmingham to Colchester trains use the Birmingham New Street to Colchester station pair, with some services arriving at Hythe (Essex). Use this guide to compare Birmingham and Colchester 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 Colchester
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.

Train stations for Birmingham to Colchester

Check train stations information for Birmingham and Colchester, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.

The train station in Birmingham that goes to Colchester is Birmingham New Street, and it arrives at Colchester.

More options for your journey from Birmingham to Colchester

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

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