- 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 trains from Cambridge to Chelmsford
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 14 Oct
Cheapest price on 14 Oct
£14
Average ticket price on 14 Oct
£14
Fastest journey on 14 Oct
1 h 59 m
Average journey duration on 14 Oct
1 h 59 m
Trains on 14 Oct
1
Distance
57 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cambridge to Chelmsford is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cambridge to Chelmsford will cost around £14 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £14.
Fast trains
On Wed 14 Oct, we found 1 trains from Cambridge to Chelmsford, including 1 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 57 km distance in an average of 1 h 59 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 59 m .
The slowest trains will take 1 h 59 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.
8:481h59Cambridge10:47Chelmsford£141One-way0 changes
- 8:481h59Cambridge10:47Chelmsford£141One-way0 changes
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cambridge to Chelmsford
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cambridge to Chelmsford run on average 9 times per day, taking around 1h 46m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £13 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 04:38, the last at 23:11. The fastest train covers the 57 km distance in 1h 29m.
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 57 km |
Average train duration 1h 46m |
Cheapest ticket price £13 |
Trains per day 9 |
Fastest train 1h 29m |
First train 4:38 |
Last train 23:11 |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 7 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
Cambridge to Chelmsford train times
The table below shows live departures for Cambridge to Chelmsford trains for tomorrow, Wednesday 14 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:48 Cambridge | 1h59 | 10:47 Chelmsford | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Cambridge to Chelmsford trains with Omio?
Greater Anglia as well as Great Northern or Thameslink offer trains services from Cambridge to Chelmsford.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cambridge to Chelmsford.
Why book with Omio vs Greater Anglia?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Greater Anglia, but also compare tickets for the likes of Great Northern or Thameslink to find the best option for your trip from Cambridge 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?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Great Northern or Thameslink to find the best option for your trip from Cambridge to Chelmsford.
Train companies: Greater Anglia, Thameslink, Great Northern from Cambridge to Chelmsford trainsGreater Anglia, Thameslink, Great Northern trains will get you between Cambridge and Chelmsford from £13. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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
1h 29m
Cheapest Greater Anglia Price
£13
Greater Anglia frequency
5 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
Thameslink
About
Thameslink is a train service that operates in the United Kingdom. It is operated by Govia Thameslink Railway and serves the counties of Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire, London, and Surrey. The trains run from early morning until late at night, with some services running 24 hours a day. There are a variety of train types available, including Class 700 Desiro City, Class 377 Electrostar, Class 387/1 Electrostar, and Class 319/0. Ticket types include Anytime, Off-Peak, Super Off-Peak, and Advance. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, and air conditioning. The most popular routes for Thameslink are London to Brighton, London to Bedford, and London to Luton.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Thameslink Duration
1h 43m
Cheapest Thameslink Price
£34
Thameslink frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund available if service is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on some routes offering drinks and snacks
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets free of charge. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone
Great Northern
About
Great Northern is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It offers a wide range of services, including high-speed trains, regional trains, and sleeper services. The high-speed trains are called InterCity Express Trains and they offer a fast and comfortable journey between major cities. The regional trains are called Regional Express Trains and they provide a slower but more frequent service to smaller towns and villages. The sleeper services are called Caledonian Sleeper Trains and they offer overnight journeys with comfortable sleeping compartments. Great Northern offers a variety of ticket types, including single, return, and group tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. The most popular routes for Great Northern are London to Cambridge, London to Peterborough, and London to Norwich. These routes offer a convenient and comfortable way to travel between the cities.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Great Northern Duration
1h 29m
Cheapest Great Northern Price
£43
Great Northern frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
See refund policy for ticket types
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some services
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets free, maximum two dogs per passenger, must be on lead
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
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
- >= £2.00
- Day pass
- >= £2.00
To the city centre
Chelmsford Railway Station -> Chelmsford Bus Station
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Use The First Bus app for tickets and journey planning in Chelmsford. Buy before boarding where possible.
- Chelmsford Park and Ride route 701 serves Parkway, Victoria Road South, Duke Street for Chelmsford Railway Station, and High Chelmer in the city centre.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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: Cambridge to Chelmsford train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cambridge 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.
The cost of a train ticket from Cambridge to Chelmsford can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £13, while the average price tends to be around £36.
The train journey from Cambridge to Chelmsford covers a distance of 57 km and takes approximately 1h 29m. Trains run 9 per day.
The train distance from Cambridge to Chelmsford is 57 km.
The first train from Cambridge to Chelmsford leaves at 4:38.
The last train from Cambridge to Chelmsford departs at 23:11.
Trains from Cambridge to Chelmsford run approximately 9 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Cambridge to Chelmsford.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Cambridge to Chelmsford.
There is no night train service from Cambridge to Chelmsford.
The train station in Cambridge that goes to Chelmsford is Cambridge South, and it arrives at Chelmsford station (CHM).
Booking trains from Cambridge 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 Cambridge to Chelmsford offers a mix of scenic views, including stretches of picturesque countryside, especially in the areas surrounding Cambridge and the approach to Chelmsford. However, parts of the journey may pass through more urban or industrial landscapes.
Yes, you can take the train from Cambridge to Chelmsford.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Cambridge and Chelmsford
Most Cambridge to Chelmsford trains use the Cambridge South to Chelmsford station pair. Use this guide to compare Cambridge and Chelmsford train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Cambridge
Arrival train stations in Chelmsford
Cambridge SouthTrumpington, Cambridge CB2 9FQ, UK
CambridgeCambridge station, Station Road, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB1 2JW+44 8450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Cambridge from Cambridge city centre
Cambridge is 1 km from Cambridge city centre. Public transport options include:
BusU1, U2 · 11m · every ~11 min
Tour · 13m · £2
75 · 15m
A · 15m · £2 · every ~11 min
Cambridge train station facilities and services
Cambridge has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Cambridge.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Cambridge. ATMs are available at Cambridge.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Cambridge.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cambridge: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Cambridge: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cambridge: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible taxis: Details of nearest taxis are shown on station information poster, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Cambridge NorthCambridge North Station, Cowley Road, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB4 0WZ+44 8450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Cambridge North from Cambridge city centre
Cambridge North is 3 km from Cambridge city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainLondon Liverpool Street - Cambridge North, Stansted Airport - Norwich, Cambridge - Norwich, London Liverpool Street - Ely, Stansted Airport - Lowestoft, Cambridge - Cambridge North, Bishops Stortford - Cambridge North, Audley End - Cambridge North, Audley End - Norwich · 3m · £2 · every ~6 min
BusB · 12m · £2 · every ~8 min
114 · 18m
2, B · 23m · £2 · every ~19 min
Cambridge North train station facilities and services
Cambridge North has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Cambridge North.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Cambridge North.
Tickets and information
Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from information point, Helpline Contact: 0800 028 2878.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cambridge North: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Cambridge North: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cambridge North: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible taxis: Details of the nearest taxi will be supplied by station staff, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Which Chelmsford station do trains from Cambridge arrive at?
Trains from Cambridge to Chelmsford most often arrive at Chelmsford. Some services arrive at {secondaryArrivalStation}, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Chelmsford arrival station.
ChelmsfordChelmsford station, Duke Street, Chelmsford, Essex, CM1 1HT+44 8450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Chelmsford from Chelmsford city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesReplacement transport stop at the bus stop on Victoria Road by station entrance
Chelmsford train station facilities and services
Chelmsford has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Chelmsford.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Chelmsford. ATMs are available at Chelmsford.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Chelmsford.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Chelmsford: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Chelmsford: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Chelmsford: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible taxis: Details of nearest taxis are shown on station information poster, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Most popular train connections from Cambridge
More options for your journey from Cambridge to Chelmsford
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Chelmsford and Cambridge
Most popular train connections to Chelmsford
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