- Must visit
Ipswich Museum
Ipswich’s main museum with natural history, archaeology and local collections, including Egyptian objects and displays on Suffolk’s past.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Chelmsford to Ipswich
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 23 Sept
Cheapest price on 23 Sept
£16
Average ticket price on 23 Sept
£18
Fastest journey on 23 Sept
37 m
Average journey duration on 23 Sept
38 m
Trains on 23 Sept
11
Distance
59 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Chelmsford to Ipswich is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Chelmsford to Ipswich will cost around £18 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £16.
Fast trains
On Wed 23 Sept, we found 11 trains from Chelmsford to Ipswich, including 8 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 59 km distance in an average of 38 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 37 m .
The slowest trains will take 42 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.
P012046:280h38Chelmsford station (CHM)7:06Ipswich station (IPS)£161One-way0 changes- P012086:560h42Chelmsford station (CHM)7:38Ipswich station (IPS)£161One-way0 changes
- P012188:300h37Chelmsford station (CHM)9:07Ipswich station (IPS)£161One-way0 changes
- P012117:280h37Chelmsford station (CHM)8:05Ipswich station (IPS)£161One-way0 changes
- C04649 · P012309:520h43Chelmsford station (CHM)10:35Ipswich station (IPS)£161One-way1 change
- P012188:300h37Chelmsford station (CHM)9:07Ipswich station (IPS)£161One-way0 changes
- P012117:280h37Chelmsford station (CHM)8:05Ipswich station (IPS)£161One-way0 changes
- P012046:280h38Chelmsford station (CHM)7:06Ipswich station (IPS)£161One-way0 changes
- P012269:280h38Chelmsford station (CHM)10:06Ipswich station (IPS)£161One-way0 changes
- P012086:560h42Chelmsford station (CHM)7:38Ipswich station (IPS)£161One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Chelmsford to Ipswich
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chelmsford to Ipswich among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of £18 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 1h 14m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of £18, while a train costs an average of £18.
Distance: 59 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|
£18 Average Price Cheapest | £12 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 14m Average total duration Fastest 44m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 54m 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 Chelmsford to Ipswich is a train with an average price of £18.
The fastest way to travel from Chelmsford to Ipswich is by train with an average journey time of 44m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Chelmsford and Ipswich including taking a train and coach.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 10m sooner (44m by train vs 54m by car). Tickets start at around £18 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.
Direct services run with Greater Anglia.
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
Chelmsford to Ipswich train times
The table below shows live departures for Chelmsford to Ipswich trains for today, Tuesday 22 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| P67000 · P01313 | Delayed 18:53 19:52Chelmsford station (CHM) | 0h44 | 20:36 Ipswich station (IPS) | 1 change | |
| P01318 | On time 20:28 Chelmsford station (CHM) | 0h40 | 21:08 Ipswich station (IPS) | 0 changesdirect | |
| P67259 | On time 20:34 Chelmsford station (CHM) | 0h52 | 21:26 Ipswich station (IPS) | 0 changesdirect | |
| P67004 · P01321 | On time 20:52 Chelmsford station (CHM) | 0h44 | 21:36 Ipswich station (IPS) | 1 change | |
| P67263 | On time 21:28 Chelmsford station (CHM) | 0h39 | 22:07 Ipswich station (IPS) | 0 changesdirect | |
| P67008 · P01326 | On time 21:52 Chelmsford station (CHM) | 0h45 | 22:37 Ipswich station (IPS) | 1 change | |
| Wednesday 23 September | |||||
| P01204 | 6:28 Chelmsford station (CHM) | 0h38 | 7:06 Ipswich station (IPS) | 0 changesdirect | |
| P01208 | 6:56 Chelmsford station (CHM) | 0h42 | 7:38 Ipswich station (IPS) | 0 changesdirect | |
| P01211 | 7:28 Chelmsford station (CHM) | 0h37 | 8:05 Ipswich station (IPS) | 0 changesdirect | |
| P67192 | 7:37 Chelmsford station (CHM) | 0h49 | 8:26 Ipswich station (IPS) | 0 changesdirect | |
| P66918 · P01215 | 7:51 Chelmsford station (CHM) | 0h47 | 8:38 Ipswich station (IPS) | 1 change | |
| P01218 | 8:30 Chelmsford station (CHM) | 0h37 | 9:07 Ipswich station (IPS) | 0 changesdirect | |
| P67198 | 8:37 Chelmsford station (CHM) | 0h47 | 9:24 Ipswich station (IPS) | 0 changesdirect | |
| P66929 · P01220 | 8:51 Chelmsford station (CHM) | 0h45 | 9:36 Ipswich station (IPS) | 1 change | |
| P01226 | 9:28 Chelmsford station (CHM) | 0h38 | 10:06 Ipswich station (IPS) | 0 changesdirect | |
| P67203 | 9:34 Chelmsford station (CHM) | 0h50 | 10:24 Ipswich station (IPS) | 0 changesdirect | |
| C04649 · P01230 | 9:52 Chelmsford station (CHM) | 0h43 | 10:35 Ipswich station (IPS) | 1 change | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Chelmsford to Ipswich by train or coach
Compare train and coach 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.
Wed
23 Sept
23 Sept
Thu
24 Sept
24 Sept
Fri
25 Sept
25 Sept
Sat
26 Sept
26 Sept
Sun
27 Sept
27 Sept
Mon
28 Sept
28 Sept
Tue
29 Sept
29 Sept
Why should you book Chelmsford to Ipswich trains with Omio?
Greater Anglia operates all trains services from Chelmsford to Ipswich.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Chelmsford to Ipswich.
Why book with Omio vs Greater Anglia?
- 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 Greater Anglia with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Chelmsford to Ipswich.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Chelmsford to Ipswich.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Chelmsford to Ipswich
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Chelmsford to Ipswich run on average 10 times per day, taking around 44m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £9 if you book in advance.
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.
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 59 km |
Average train duration 44m |
Cheapest ticket price £9 |
Trains per day 10 |
Direct trains 7 |
Fastest train 37m |
First train 0:05 |
Last train 23:56 |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sept |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 42 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
Train companies: Greater Anglia from Chelmsford to Ipswich trainsGreater Anglia trains will get you between Chelmsford and Ipswich from £9. 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
37m
Cheapest Greater Anglia Price
£9
Greater Anglia frequency
6 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
Complete guide to Ipswich
Things to do in Ipswich
Discover the best of Ipswich — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Ipswich trip today.
- Must visit
Christchurch Mansion
Gallery in Christchurch Mansion showing works by Constable and Gainsborough, plus changing exhibitions in a historic setting.
- Recommended
The Hold: Ipswich Waterfront
Museum on the redeveloped docks telling the story of Ipswich’s maritime trade, industry and local life through interactive displays.
- Must visit
Ipswich Waterfront
Lively regenerated marina with quayside walks, historic warehouses and wide views; ideal for a relaxed stroll by the water.
- Must visit
Christchurch Park
Large public park with formal gardens, ponds and open lawns around Christchurch Mansion; a favourite green escape near the centre.
- Recommended
Cornhill
Historic square at the civic heart of Ipswich, framed by notable buildings and often used for markets, events and seasonal displays.
Suffolk Sausage
A hearty Suffolk pork sausage, traditionally seasoned with sage and pepper. It is a long-standing county speciality often served with mash or in a sandwich.
- Gluten-free
Suffolk Ham
Cured ham from Suffolk, usually dry-cured and sliced thin. It reflects the county’s strong pork-curing tradition and is a popular local deli staple.
- Gluten-free
Smoked Herring
Smoked herring from the nearby Suffolk coast, especially linked with Lowestoft. Traditionally eaten for breakfast or in fish dishes with a deep smoky flavour.
Melekzade
Well-known Turkish restaurant with grilled meats, meze and warm service in a lively yet comfortable dining room.
Indian Knight
Established Indian restaurant known for refined curries and attentive service in an elegant setting.
The Last Anchor
Stylish marina restaurant serving modern British food, steaks and seafood in a relaxed waterfront setting.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate by UK standards. Hotels and dining cost less than London, while buses and casual meals are fairly affordable for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a basic lunch.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is sometimes included in restaurants; otherwise tip about 10% for good service. Taxi fares can be rounded up. Tipping in cafés is optional.
Ipswich Bus App
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.30
- Day pass
- £4.40
To the city centre
Ipswich Railway Station -> Ipswich Town Centre
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Ipswich Buses Town fares currently include a £2.30 single and £4.40 day ticket in the town zone. Buy in the official app for mobile tickets.
- Ipswich Railway Station is about a 10–15 minute walk from the town centre. Buses and taxis also leave from the station forecourt.
FAQs: Chelmsford to Ipswich train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chelmsford to Ipswich 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 Ipswich, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Chelmsford to Ipswich can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £9, while the average price tends to be around £18.
The train journey from Chelmsford to Ipswich covers a distance of 59 km and takes approximately 37m. Trains run 10 per day.
The train distance from Chelmsford to Ipswich is 59 km.
The first train from Chelmsford to Ipswich leaves at 0:05.
The last train from Chelmsford to Ipswich departs at 23:56.
Trains from Chelmsford to Ipswich run approximately 10 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Chelmsford to Ipswich.
Yes, there is a direct train between Chelmsford and Ipswich. The service operates 7 times per day, provided by Greater Anglia.
There is no night train service from Chelmsford to Ipswich.
The train station in Chelmsford that goes to Ipswich is Chelmsford station (CHM), and it arrives at Ipswich station (IPS).
The cheapest way to get from Chelmsford to Ipswich is by train, costing approximately £9.
Booking trains from Chelmsford to Ipswich 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 Ipswich offers a pleasant view of the English countryside, including glimpses of fields, small villages, and patches of woodland, making it quite a scenic route.
Yes, you can take the train from Chelmsford to Ipswich.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Chelmsford and Ipswich
Most Chelmsford to Ipswich trains use the Chelmsford to Ipswich station pair. Use this guide to compare Chelmsford and Ipswich train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Chelmsford
Arrival train stations in Ipswich
Which Chelmsford station do trains to Ipswich leave from?
Trains from Chelmsford to Ipswich leave from Chelmsford. The station is from Chelmsford city centre at Chelmsford station, Duke Street, Chelmsford, Essex, CM1 1HT.
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.
Which Ipswich station do trains from Chelmsford arrive at?
Trains from Chelmsford to Ipswich arrive at Ipswich. Ipswich is 1 km from Ipswich city centre.
IpswichIpswich station, Burrell Road, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP2 8AL+44 3450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Ipswich from Ipswich city centre
Ipswich is 1 km from Ipswich city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus13, 12, 23, 3, 119, 3E · 7m · £2 · every ~27 min
12, 3, 13, 15, 119, 3E, 23 · 9m · £2 · every ~35 min
111 · 21m
Ipswich train station facilities and services
Ipswich has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Ipswich.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Ipswich. ATMs are available at Ipswich.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Ipswich.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Ipswich: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Ipswich: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Ipswich: 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: Yes.
Most popular train connections from Chelmsford
More options for your journey from Chelmsford to Ipswich
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Ipswich and Chelmsford
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