- 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 Chatham to Chelmsford
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 18 Sept
Cheapest price on 18 Sept
£46
Average ticket price on 18 Sept
£46
Fastest journey on 18 Sept
1 h 27 m
Average journey duration on 18 Sept
1 h 27 m
Trains on 18 Sept
1
Distance
40 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Chatham to Chelmsford is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Chatham to Chelmsford will cost around £46 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £46.
Fast trains
On Fri 18 Sept, we found 1 trains from Chatham to Chelmsford, including 1 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 40 km distance in an average of 1 h 27 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 27 m .
The slowest trains will take 1 h 27 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.
6:241h27Chatham7:51Chelmsford£461One-way0 changes
- 6:241h27Chatham7:51Chelmsford£461One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train for Chatham to Chelmsford
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chatham to Chelmsford among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of £39 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 1h 29m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of £39, while a train costs an average of £39.
Distance: 40 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|
£39 Average Price Cheapest | £12 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 29m Average total duration Fastest 59m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 1m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Chatham to Chelmsford is a train with an average price of £39.
The fastest way to travel from Chatham to Chelmsford is by train with an average journey time of 59m.
Yes, you can take a train between Chatham and Chelmsford.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 2m sooner (59m by train vs 1h 1m by car). Tickets start at around £39 compared to roughly £12 in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Chatham to Chelmsford train times
The table below shows live departures for Chatham to Chelmsford trains for tomorrow, Friday 18 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:24 Chatham | 1h27 | 7:51 Chelmsford | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Chatham to Chelmsford by train
Compare train prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Fri
18 Sept
18 Sept
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19 Sept
19 Sept
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20 Sept
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21 Sept
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24 Sept
24 Sept
Why should you book Chatham to Chelmsford trains with Omio?
Southeastern as well as Southeastern offer trains services from Chatham to Chelmsford.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Chatham to Chelmsford.
Why book with Omio vs Southeastern?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Southeastern, but also compare tickets for the likes of Southeastern to find the best option for your trip from Chatham 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.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Chatham to Chelmsford
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Chatham to Chelmsford run on average 8 times per day, taking around 59m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £39 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 05:11, the last at 23:11. The fastest train covers the 40 km distance in 1h 6m.
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 40 km |
Average train duration 59m |
Cheapest ticket price £39 |
Trains per day 8 |
Fastest train 1h 6m |
First train 5:11 |
Last train 23:11 |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sept |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 1 day |
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
Train companies: Southeastern from Chatham to Chelmsford trainsSoutheastern trains will get you between Chatham and Chelmsford from £39. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Southeastern
About
Southeastern is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London to Kent, Sussex, Surrey and parts of East Anglia. It runs services from early morning until late at night, seven days a week. Southeastern has a range of train types, including high-speed Javelin trains, commuter-friendly Metro services, and the classic InterCity services. Ticket types include Advance, Off-Peak, Super Off-Peak, and Anytime tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for Southeastern are London to Kent, London to Eastbourne, and London to Hastings.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Southeastern Duration
1h 27m
Cheapest Southeastern Price
£46
Southeastern frequency
9 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at the end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on most services
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and ramps for boarding
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs allowed with ticket. Guide dogs free
Quiet zone
Family area
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.
FAQs: Chatham to Chelmsford train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chatham 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 Chatham to Chelmsford can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £39, while the average price tends to be around £39.
The train journey from Chatham to Chelmsford covers a distance of 40 km and takes approximately 1h 6m. Trains run 8 per day.
The train distance from Chatham to Chelmsford is 40 km.
The first train from Chatham to Chelmsford leaves at 5:11.
The last train from Chatham to Chelmsford departs at 23:11.
Trains from Chatham to Chelmsford run approximately 8 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Chatham to Chelmsford.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Chatham to Chelmsford.
To travel from Chatham to Chelmsford, you can take a train.
There is no night train service from Chatham to Chelmsford.
The train station in Chatham that goes to Chelmsford is Chatham station (CTM), and it arrives at Chelmsford station (CHM).
The cheapest way to get from Chatham to Chelmsford is by train, costing approximately £39.
Booking trains from Chatham 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 Chatham to Chelmsford offers views of the Kent countryside, passing through rural landscapes and small towns, which some passengers may find scenic.
A day trip from Chatham to Chelmsford may not be feasible as the travel duration is 1h 6m, and the frequency is 6 per day for trains over a distance of 40 km.
To explore Chelmsford's main attractions, including its parks, historical sites, and shopping areas, two to three days are usually sufficient.
Yes, you can take the train from Chatham to Chelmsford.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Chatham and Chelmsford
Most Chatham to Chelmsford trains use the Chatham to Chelmsford station pair. Use this guide to compare Chatham and Chelmsford train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Chatham
Arrival train stations in Chelmsford
Which Chatham station do trains to Chelmsford leave from?
Trains from Chatham to Chelmsford leave from Chatham. The station is from Chatham city centre at Chatham station, Railway Street, Chatham, Kent, ME4 6PN.
ChathamChatham station, Railway Street, Chatham, Kent, ME4 6PN+44 3303339232
City-centre transport
Getting to Chatham from Chatham city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesBus stop B in the bus interchange, to the right of the station entrance
Chatham train station facilities and services
Chatham has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Chatham.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Chatham.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Chatham. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Helpline Contact: 0345 322 7021 or Text relay 18001 0345 322 7021 Freephone 0800 783 4524 or Text Relay 18001 0800 783 4524, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Chatham: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Chatham: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Chatham: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Category B2. This station has a degree of step-free access to the platform, which may be in both directions or in one direction only - please check details - Step free access to platform 1 for services to London via ramp to car park. Step free access to platform 2 for services away from London via ramp from Railway Street. Step free interchange via road and steep paths is in excess of 250 metres. Step access between platforms available via the booking hall, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available to book, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: In the booking hall, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Monday - Sunday 24 Hours a Day Assistance/Help available from station staff from First to Last trains, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Which Chelmsford station do trains from Chatham arrive at?
Trains from Chatham to Chelmsford arrive at Chelmsford. Chelmsford is from Chelmsford city centre.
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 Chatham
More options for your journey from Chatham to Chelmsford
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Chelmsford and Chatham
Most popular train connections to Chelmsford
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