Bristol to Chelmsford train with Great Western Railway

Wed 14 Oct
+ Add return
Great Western Railway
Elizabeth line
Avanti West Coast
Regionale
West Midlands Trains
2,000+ travel companies
Great Western Railway
Elizabeth line
Avanti West Coast
Regionale
West Midlands Trains
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Bristol to Chelmsford

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 14 Oct

Cheapest price on 14 Oct

£105

Average ticket price on 14 Oct

£105

Fastest journey on 14 Oct

2 h 51 m

Average journey duration on 14 Oct

2 h 51 m

Trains on 14 Oct

1

Distance

214 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Bristol to Chelmsford will cost around £105 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £105.

Fast trains

On Wed 14 Oct, we found 1 trains from Bristol to Chelmsford, including 1 direct services.

These direct trains cover the 214 km distance in an average of 2 h 51 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 51 m .

The slowest trains will take 2 h 51 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.

  • Great Western Railway
    6:302h51
    Bristol
    9:21Chelmsford
    £1051One-way
    0 changes

Journey information

Overview: Train from Bristol to Chelmsford

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Bristol to Chelmsford run on average 7 times per day, taking around 2h 23m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £27 if you book in advance.

The earliest train runs at 04:53, the last at 22:11. The fastest train covers the 214 km distance in 2h 4m.

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
214 km
Average train duration
2h 23m
Cheapest ticket price
£27
Trains per day
7
Fastest train
2h 4m
First train
4:53
Last train
22:11
Cheapest Month
Jun
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Jul - Sept
Low Season
Apr - Jun
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

Bristol to Chelmsford train times

The table below shows live departures for Bristol to Chelmsford trains for tomorrow, Wednesday 14 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
Great Western Railway6:30 Bristol
2h51
9:21 Chelmsford0 changesdirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Bristol to Chelmsford trains with Omio?

Great Western Railway as well as Elizabeth line offer trains services from Bristol to Chelmsford.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Bristol to Chelmsford.

Why book with Omio vs Great Western Railway?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Great Western Railway, but also compare tickets for the likes of Elizabeth line to find the best option for your trip from Bristol 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.
  • Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Great Western Railway with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Bristol to Chelmsford.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Bristol to Chelmsford.

Train companies: Great Western Railway, Elizabeth line from Bristol to Chelmsford trainsGreat Western Railway, Elizabeth line trains will get you between Bristol and Chelmsford from £27. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Great Western Railway

About
Great Western Railway is a train operating company in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London Paddington to the West of England, South Wales and the Cotswolds. It also operates services from London Paddington to Oxford, Reading and Bristol. It offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, Off-Peak and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, air conditioning and catering services. The most popular routes for Great Western Railway are London Paddington to Bristol, Reading and Oxford.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Great Western Railway Duration
2h 4m
Cheapest Great Western Railway Price
£27
Great Western Railway frequency
6 a day
Luggage included
Two pieces of luggage and one piece of hand luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, dedicated luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches. First Class at-seat service on some routes
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservations available for a fee. Free in First Class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone

Elizabeth line

About
Tfl Rail is a railway service operated by Transport for London in the United Kingdom. It operates on the Great Western Main Line and the Heathrow branch of the London Underground. The service runs from Paddington in London to Reading, Maidenhead, Slough, and Heathrow Airport. It also serves the towns of Taplow, Burnham, Twyford, and Hayes & Harlington. All trains are air-conditioned and feature onboard Wi-Fi, power sockets, and digital information screens. Tfl Rail offers a range of ticket types, including single and return tickets, season tickets, and Oyster cards. Oyster cards are the most popular ticket type, allowing passengers to pay for their journey with a single card. The most popular routes for Tfl Rail are Paddington to Reading, Paddington to Maidenhead, and Paddington to Heathrow Airport. These routes offer frequent services and provide passengers with a convenient way to travel between London and the surrounding areas.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Elizabeth line Duration
2h 37m
Cheapest Elizabeth line Price
£50
Elizabeth line frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
Standard luggage allowance included with ticket
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage storage areas in carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refunds available through TfL website or customer service
Refund
Full refund available for service cancellations
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
No dedicated dining car. Passengers can bring their own food and drinks
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Step-free access at most stations, wheelchair spaces on trains, priority seating
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be leashed. Guide dogs welcome
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: Bristol to Chelmsford train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bristol 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 Bristol to Chelmsford can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £27, while the average price tends to be around £65.
The train journey from Bristol to Chelmsford covers a distance of 214 km and takes approximately 2h 4m. Trains run 7 per day.
The train distance from Bristol to Chelmsford is 214 km.
The first train from Bristol to Chelmsford leaves at 4:53.
The last train from Bristol to Chelmsford departs at 22:11.
Trains from Bristol to Chelmsford run approximately 7 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Bristol to Chelmsford.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Bristol to Chelmsford.
There is no night train service from Bristol to Chelmsford.
The train station in Bristol that goes to Chelmsford is Bristol Temple Meads (BRI), and it arrives at Chelmsford station (CHM).
Booking trains from Bristol 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 Bristol to Chelmsford offers a mix of urban and countryside views, with sections passing through the picturesque countryside of Somerset and the scenic landscapes of the Cotswolds before transitioning into more urban areas as you approach Chelmsford.
Yes, you can take the train from Bristol to Chelmsford.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Bristol and Chelmsford

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

Departure train stations in Bristol
Arrival train stations in Chelmsford
Bristol Temple MeadsStation Approach, Bristol, BS1 6QF, United Kingdom+44 3457114141WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Bristol Temple Meads from Bristol city centre

Bus16 · 7m · £4 · every ~12 min
X39, 16, 39, 522 · 8m · £4 · every ~49 min
512 · 14m
9 · 15m · £4 · every ~22 min

Bristol Temple Meads train station facilities and services

Bristol Temple Meads has practical services for this route, including Wifi, 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: The Pasty Shop, Starbucks, Upper Crust, Pumpkin Café, Hart's Bakery

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are located near Platform 3.

Tickets and information

The ticket office is open Mon - Sat: 05:30 - 21:30, Sun: 06:45 - 21:30. Information desks are located near the main entrance.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Bristol Temple Meads: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Bristol Temple Meads: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Bristol Temple Meads: Wheelchair access, elevators, escalators. .

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Holiday Inn Express Bristol City Center, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Bristol City Center, Hilton Garden Inn Bristol City Center.

More options for your journey from Bristol to Chelmsford

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

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