- Must visit
HMS Victory
A major naval museum where visitors can board Nelson’s flagship and explore life at sea through preserved decks and displays.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Chelmsford to Portsmouth
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 15 Nov
- Cheapest price on 15 Nov
- £20
- Average ticket price on 15 Nov
- £21
- Fastest journey on 15 Nov
- 3 h 29 m
- Average journey duration on 15 Nov
- 3 h 39 m
- Trains on 15 Nov
- 4
- Distance
- 150 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Chelmsford to Portsmouth is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Chelmsford to Portsmouth will cost around £21 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £20.
Fast trains
To travel from Chelmsford to Portsmouth you need to make at least 2 changes.
Tube from Stratford (London) to London Waterloo+
L83953+
P6721413:09 3h46 Chelmsford station (CHM) 16:55 Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS) £20 1 One-way 2 changes- Tube from Stratford (London) to London Waterloo+L79688+P66928
13:31 3h29 Chelmsford station (CHM) 17:00 Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS) £20 1 One-way 2 changes - Tube from Stratford (London) to London Waterloo+L79668+P66925
12:31 3h29 Chelmsford station (CHM) 16:00 Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS) £22 1 One-way 2 changes - Tube from Stratford (London) to London Waterloo+L79708+P67218
14:09 3h51 Chelmsford station (CHM) 18:00 Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS) £24 1 One-way 2 changes
- Tube from Stratford (London) to London Waterloo+L79668+P66925
12:31 3h29 Chelmsford station (CHM) 16:00 Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS) £22 1 One-way 2 changes - Tube from Stratford (London) to London Waterloo+L79688+P66928
13:31 3h29 Chelmsford station (CHM) 17:00 Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS) £20 1 One-way 2 changes - Tube from Stratford (London) to London Waterloo+L83953+P67214
13:09 3h46 Chelmsford station (CHM) 16:55 Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS) £20 1 One-way 2 changes - Tube from Stratford (London) to London Waterloo+L79708+P67218
14:09 3h51 Chelmsford station (CHM) 18:00 Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS) £24 1 One-way 2 changes
Journey information
Overview: Train from Chelmsford to Portsmouth
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Chelmsford to Portsmouth run on average 5 times per day, taking around 2h 44m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £30 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 03:11, the last at 21:57. The fastest train covers the 150 km distance in 2h 20m.
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 150 km |
Average train duration 2h 44m |
Cheapest ticket price £30 |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 2h 20m |
First train 3:11 |
Last train 21:57 |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 49 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
Frequently asked questions about your Chelmsford to Portsmouth trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Chelmsford to Portsmouth.
The cost of a train ticket from Chelmsford to Portsmouth can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £30, while the average price tends to be around £49.
The train journey from Chelmsford to Portsmouth covers a distance of 150 km and takes approximately 2h 20m. Trains run 5 per day.
The train distance from Chelmsford to Portsmouth is 150 km.
The first train from Chelmsford to Portsmouth leaves at 3:11.
The last train from Chelmsford to Portsmouth departs at 21:57.
Trains from Chelmsford to Portsmouth run approximately 5 times per day.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Chelmsford to Portsmouth.
Live departures
Chelmsford to Portsmouth train times
The table below shows live departures for Chelmsford to Portsmouth trains for tomorrow, Sunday 15 November. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tube from Stratford (London) to London Waterloo+L79668+P66925 | 12:31 Chelmsford station (CHM) | 3h29 | 16:00 Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS) | 2 changes | |
| Tube from Stratford (London) to London Waterloo+L83953+P67214 | 13:09 Chelmsford station (CHM) | 3h46 | 16:55 Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS) | 2 changes | |
| Tube from Stratford (London) to London Waterloo+L79688+P66928 | 13:31 Chelmsford station (CHM) | 3h29 | 17:00 Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS) | 2 changes | |
| Tube from Stratford (London) to London Waterloo+L79708+P67218 | 14:09 Chelmsford station (CHM) | 3h51 | 18:00 Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS) | 2 changes | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Chelmsford to Portsmouth trains with Omio?
South Western Railway as well as Southern offer trains services from Chelmsford to Portsmouth.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Chelmsford to Portsmouth.
Why book with Omio vs South Western Railway?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for South Western Railway, but also compare tickets for the likes of Southern to find the best option for your trip from Chelmsford to Portsmouth.
- 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 or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Southern to find the best option for your trip from Chelmsford to Portsmouth.
Train companies: South Western Railway, Southern from Chelmsford to Portsmouth trainsSouth Western Railway, Southern trains will get you between Chelmsford and Portsmouth from £30. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
South Western Railway
About
South Western Railway is a train operating company in the United Kingdom, providing services in the south and south-west of England. It operates a variety of train types, including high-speed trains, local stopping services, and suburban commuter trains. It also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Off-Peak, and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for South Western Railway include London Waterloo to Portsmouth Harbour, London Waterloo to Weymouth, and London Waterloo to Bournemouth.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average South Western Railway Duration
2h 20m
Cheapest South Western Railway Price
£30
South Western Railway frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund depends on ticket type and timing of cancellation
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar service with hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee, free for some ticket types
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free, dogs must be on lead
Quiet zone
Southern
About
Southern Rail is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from high-speed intercity trains to local commuter services. Its trains include the InterCity 125, InterCity 225, and Class 444 and 450. It also offers a variety of ticket types, such as Advance, Off-Peak, and Super Off-Peak. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for Southern Rail are London to Brighton, London to Southampton, and London to Portsmouth.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Southern Duration
2h 50m
Cheapest Southern Price
£72
Southern frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 piece of hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage areas at the end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund provided
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with snacks and drinks
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require a ticket
Quiet zone
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Chelmsford and Portsmouth
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Chelmsford to Portsmouth.
There is no night train service from Chelmsford to Portsmouth.
Complete guide to Portsmouth
Things to do in Portsmouth
Discover the best of Portsmouth — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Portsmouth trip today.
- Recommended
HMS Alliance
This working museum ship reveals cramped Victorian submarine life and the engineering behind one of Britain’s earliest submarines.
- Recommended
Portsmouth Museum and Art Gallery
Portsmouth’s city museum covers local history, football heritage and art, with exhibits spanning the city’s people and places.
- Must visit
Old Portsmouth
A historic waterfront district with cobbled lanes, pubs, sea walls and several key heritage sites within easy walking distance.
- Must visit
Southsea Seafront
A long pebble beach promenade with piers, gardens and open sea views, well suited to relaxed walks along the Southsea seafront.
- Recommended
Southsea Common
A broad common by the Solent, popular for walks, picnics and views of passing ships, the Isle of Wight and seafront landmarks.
- Vegetarian
Hampshire hog cake
A rich fruit cake packed with dried fruit, spice and treacle, long associated with Hampshire baking and often enjoyed at Christmas and local celebrations.
- Gluten-free
South Coast crab
Fresh crab landed on the South Coast, usually served simply in sandwiches, salads or dressed shells, prized for sweet meat and Portsmouth’s seaside setting.
- Gluten-free
Fisherman’s pie
A classic Portsmouth and Hampshire pub dish of smoked haddock, potato and onion in a creamy sauce, baked until golden and comforting in coastal weather.
The Fisherman's Kitchen
Popular Southsea spot for classic fish and chips and fresh seafood, with a casual atmosphere close to the seafront.
The Briny
Smart waterfront restaurant in Old Portsmouth serving modern British dishes with strong seafood options in an elegant, relaxed setting.
Still and West
Historic pub in Old Portsmouth known for traditional British cooking, cask ales and harbour views in a characterful setting.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels can be pricey in summer, but dining and local buses remain manageable for most city-break budgets.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Restaurants: 10-12.5% if not already added. Taxis: round up or 10%. Cafés and pubs: tipping is optional, though small change is appreciated for table service.
Book a Journey
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £3.00
- Day pass
- £5.00
To the city centre
Portsmouth Harbour -> Guildhall Square, Portsmouth
- Distance
- 1.6 km
- Travel time
- 20 min
- Contactless payment is available on Stagecoach buses in Portsmouth. Buy before boarding only if your chosen operator or ticket type requires it.
- Guildhall Square and the Commercial Road bus hub are central for onward travel. Portsmouth Harbour is about 1 mile from the city centre, so walking is practical in good weather.
Plan your visit to Portsmouth
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Portsmouth.
The train journey from Chelmsford to Portsmouth offers a mix of scenic views, including glimpses of the English countryside, charming villages, and stretches of coastal scenery as you approach Portsmouth.
FAQs: Chelmsford to Portsmouth train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chelmsford to Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Booking trains from Chelmsford to Portsmouth in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
Yes, you can take the train from Chelmsford to Portsmouth.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Chelmsford and Portsmouth
Most Chelmsford to Portsmouth trains use the Chelmsford to Portsmouth & Southsea station pair, with some services arriving at Portsmouth Harbour. Use this guide to compare Chelmsford and Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth
Which Chelmsford station do trains to Portsmouth leave from?
Trains from Chelmsford to Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth station do trains from Chelmsford arrive at?
Trains from Chelmsford to Portsmouth most often arrive at Portsmouth & Southsea. Some services arrive at Portsmouth Harbour, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Portsmouth arrival station.
Portsmouth & SouthseaPortsmouth & Southsea station, Commercial Road, Portsmouth, Hampshire, PO1 1EQ
City-centre transport
Getting to Portsmouth & Southsea from Portsmouth city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesStation Street bus stop at side of Railway Station near Matalan car park.
Portsmouth & Southsea train station facilities and services
Portsmouth & Southsea has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Portsmouth & Southsea.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Portsmouth & Southsea. ATMs are available at Portsmouth & Southsea.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Portsmouth & Southsea.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Portsmouth & Southsea: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Portsmouth & Southsea: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Portsmouth & Southsea: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step-free category A Station - This station has step-free access to all platforms. Please be aware that some platforms at this station have no or only partial tactile paving on the platform edge, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All South Western Railway ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. All machines are accessible, however the station may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Portsmouth HarbourPortsmouth Harbour station, The Hard Interchange, Portsmouth, Hampshire, PO1 3PA
City-centre transport
Getting to Portsmouth Harbour from Portsmouth city centre
Portsmouth Harbour is 1 km from Portsmouth city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainLondon Victoria - Portsmouth Harbour, Brighton - Portsmouth Harbour, Littlehampton - Portsmouth Harbour, Three Bridges - Portsmouth Harbour, Barnham - Portsmouth Harbour, Gatwick Airport - Portsmouth Harbour, Havant - Portsmouth Harbour, Bognor Regis - Portsmouth Harbour · 3m · £1 · every ~4 min
Bus1, 2, 8, 3, 7, X4, H1, X5, Pr1 · 6m · £2 · every ~214 min
Portsmouth Harbour train station facilities and services
Portsmouth Harbour has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Portsmouth Harbour.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Portsmouth Harbour. ATMs are available at Portsmouth Harbour.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Portsmouth Harbour.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Portsmouth Harbour: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Portsmouth Harbour: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Portsmouth Harbour: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step-free category B Station - Steps or 20m ramp (approx. 1:11 gradient) to main entrance, or steps to side entrance. 32m ramp (gradient up to 1:8) from Wightlink IoW ferry terminal. Level access to all platforms. Stepped footbridge between platforms is also available. Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All South Western Railway ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. All machines are accessible, however the station may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Train stations for Chelmsford to Portsmouth
Check train stations information for Chelmsford and Portsmouth, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Chelmsford that goes to Portsmouth is Chelmsford, and it arrives at Portsmouth & Southsea.
Most popular train connections from Chelmsford
More options for your journey from Chelmsford to Portsmouth
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Portsmouth and Chelmsford
Most popular train connections to Portsmouth
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