1,000+ travel companies
1,000+ travel companies
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
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Chelmsford to Chester
Showing times and prices for 15 Nov
Cheapest price
£191
Average price
£191
Fastest journey
3 h 9 m
Average duration
3 h 9 m
Trains per day
5
Distance
279 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Chelmsford to Chester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Chelmsford to Chester will cost around £191 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £191.
Fast trains
To travel from Chelmsford to Chester you need to make at least 3 changes.
07:553h09
Chelmsford11:04Chester
£1911One-way
3 changes
08:553h09
Chelmsford12:04Chester
£1911One-way
3 changes
09:543h11
Chelmsford13:05Chester
£1911One-way
3 changes
10:553h10
Chelmsford14:05Chester
£1911One-way
3 changes
11:553h09
Chelmsford15:04Chester
£1911One-way
3 changes
07:553h09
Chelmsford11:04Chester
£1911One-way
3 changes
08:553h09
Chelmsford12:04Chester
£1911One-way
3 changes
11:553h09
Chelmsford15:04Chester
£1911One-way
3 changes
14:553h09
Chelmsford18:04Chester
£1911One-way
3 changes
10:553h10
Chelmsford14:05Chester
£1911One-way
3 changes
Travel Information
Compare train and flight for Chelmsford to Chester
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chelmsford to Chester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from £83. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 1m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of £83, and a flight costs an average of £82.
Distance: 279 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight |
|---|---|
£100 Average Price Cheapest | £129 Average Price |
3h 49m Average total duration 3h 19m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 1m Average total duration Fastest 1h 1m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Live departures
Chelmsford to Chester train times
The table below shows live departures for Chelmsford to Chester trains for today, Friday 14 November. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 01:24
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 05:18 Chelmsford | 3h24 | 08:42 Chester | 0 changesdirect | |
| 08:02 Chelmsford | 3h40 | 11:42 Chester | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Chelmsford to Chester by train or flight
Compare train and flight 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.
Sat
15 Nov
15 Nov
Sun
16 Nov
16 Nov
Mon
17 Nov
17 Nov
Tue
18 Nov
18 Nov
Wed
19 Nov
19 Nov
Thu
20 Nov
20 Nov
Fri
21 Nov
21 Nov
Journey information
Overview: Train from Chelmsford to Chester
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Chelmsford to Chester run on average 5 times per day, taking around 3h 19m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £83 but you can travel from only £82 by flight.
The earliest train runs at 03:39, the last at 20:35. The fastest train covers the 279 km distance in 3h 40m.
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from £82
Distance 279 km |
Average train duration 3h 19m |
Cheapest ticket price £83 |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 3h 40m |
First train 03:39 |
Last train 20:35 |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from £82
Train companies: Avanti West Coast, West Midlands Trains, Abellio Greater Anglia from Chelmsford to Chester trainsAvanti West Coast, West Midlands Trains, Abellio Greater Anglia trains will get you between Chelmsford and Chester from £82. 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 Duration
3h 24m
Cheapest Price
£45
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
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
Abellio 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 Duration
3h 2m
Cheapest Price
£192
Abellio Greater Anglia frequency
8 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
FAQs: Chelmsford to Chester train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chelmsford to Chester 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 Chester, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
A stay of two to three days in Chester is typically sufficient to explore its historic sites, such as Chester Cathedral, the Roman walls, and the Rows, while also enjoying local dining and shopping experiences.
The cost of a train ticket from Chelmsford to Chester can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £83, while the average price tends to be around £100.
Booking trains from Chelmsford to Chester in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Chelmsford to Chester covers a distance of 279 km and takes approximately 3h 40m. Trains run 5 per day.
The train station in Chelmsford that goes to Chester is Chelmsford station (CHM), and it arrives at Chester station (CTR).
The first train from Chelmsford to Chester leaves at 3:39.
Trains from Chelmsford to Chester run approximately 5 times per day.
In Chester, you can visit Chester Zoo, one of the UK's largest zoos, or explore the Grosvenor Museum for local history and art. Enjoy a walk or boat trip along the River Dee, or experience cultural offerings at Storyhouse. The Cheshire Military Museum provides insights into military history. Don't miss the stunning Chester Cathedral, the historical Chester Roman Amphitheatre, and the well-preserved Chester City Walls for panoramic views. The Eastgate Clock and The Rows offer iconic sights and unique shopping experiences.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Chelmsford to Chester.
Yes, you can take the train from Chelmsford to Chester.
The cheapest way to get from Chelmsford to Chester is by flight, costing approximately £82.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Chelmsford to Chester.
To get from Chelmsford to Chester, you can choose from several travel options including train and flight.
The train distance from Chelmsford to Chester is 279 km.
The last train from Chelmsford to Chester departs at 20:35.
There is no night train service from Chelmsford to Chester.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Chelmsford and Chester
Chelmsford
Chester
The major train station for departures in Chelmsford is Chelmsford. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Chelmsford for your trip from Chelmsford to Chester.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Accessibility
WC
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parkinginformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:50 - 22:00 Saturday 05:50 - 22:00 Sunday 07:00 - 23:00
Shopping
- Type of shops available: Newsagent Flower stall Hairdresser Dry cleaner
Parking
- Car Park: Premium Bay
Accessibility
- 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
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on each platform. The accessible (radar key) toilets are located on the Ground Floor, near the lifts.
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: There is a dedicated Cycle Point, with free cycle parking, plus secure cycle parking and premium cycle parking. This is in Park Road, opposite the station.
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transport options for Chelmsford
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Replacement transport stop at the bus stop on Victoria Road by station entrance
The major train station for arrivals in Chester is Chester. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Chester for your journey to Chester from Chelmsford.
Amenities at train station
ShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWC
HotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parking
Car Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:40 - 21:40 Saturday 05:40 - 21:40 Sunday 07:10 - 20:40
Distance to city center
1 kmShopping
- Type of shops available: News agent
Parking
- Car Park: Chester West
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Category A. Step free access is available to all platforms via lifts.
- Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided
- 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
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Main Concourse and on Platform 7a. The National key toilets are located on the Main Concourse and on Platform 7a; these toilets are operated by a radar key.
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: On the concourse
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from information point
- Helpline Contact: 03333 211202
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens
Public transport options for Chester
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: At the bus stop outside the station front
Most popular train connections from Chelmsford
More options for your journey from Chelmsford to Chester
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Chester and Chelmsford
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.
