- 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 Cheltenham to Chelmsford
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 13 Oct
Cheapest price on 13 Oct
£106
Average ticket price on 13 Oct
£108
Fastest journey on 13 Oct
2 h 51 m
Average journey duration on 13 Oct
2 h 54 m
Trains on 13 Oct
17
Distance
176 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cheltenham to Chelmsford is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cheltenham to Chelmsford will cost around £108 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £106.
Fast trains
To travel from Cheltenham to Chelmsford you need to make at least 2 changes.
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15:032h51Cheltenham17:54Chelmsford£1061One-way2 changes- 5:532h57Cheltenham8:50Chelmsford£1071One-way2 changes
- 6:483h03Cheltenham9:51Chelmsford£1071One-way2 changes
- 7:553h12Cheltenham11:07Chelmsford£1071One-way2 changes
- 9:033h04Cheltenham12:07Chelmsford£1071One-way2 changes
- 15:032h51Cheltenham17:54Chelmsford£1061One-way2 changes
- 16:032h51Cheltenham18:54Chelmsford£1071One-way2 changes
- 21:022h56Cheltenham23:58Chelmsford£1071One-way2 changes
- 5:532h57Cheltenham8:50Chelmsford£1071One-way2 changes
- 20:022h57Cheltenham22:59Chelmsford£1071One-way2 changes
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cheltenham to Chelmsford
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Take a train from Cheltenham to Chelmsford and enjoy the approximately 176 km long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest train runs at 05:11, the last at 21:05.
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 176 km |
First train 5:11 |
Last train 21:05 |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 28 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
Cheltenham to Chelmsford train times
The table below shows live departures for Cheltenham to Chelmsford trains for today, Monday 12 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 W35187+ C37911+ P01102+ W29871 | Delayed 13:27 13:29Cheltenham Spa (CNM) | 3h33 | 17:02 Chelmsford station (CHM) | 3 changes | |
| G15054+P66984+C37944 | On time 14:03 Cheltenham Spa (CNM) | 3h12 | 17:15 Chelmsford station (CHM) | 2 changes | |
| G15048+G01148+C38032+P01110 | Delayed 14:27 14:52Cheltenham Spa (CNM) | 3h14 | 18:06 Chelmsford station (CHM) | 3 changes | |
| Tuesday 13 October | |||||
| 5:53 Cheltenham | 2h57 | 8:50 Chelmsford | 2 changes | |
| 6:48 Cheltenham | 3h03 | 9:51 Chelmsford | 2 changes | |
| 7:55 Cheltenham | 3h12 | 11:07 Chelmsford | 2 changes | |
| 9:03 Cheltenham | 3h04 | 12:07 Chelmsford | 2 changes | |
| 10:03 Cheltenham | 3h04 | 13:07 Chelmsford | 2 changes | |
| 11:03 Cheltenham | 3h04 | 14:07 Chelmsford | 2 changes | |
| 12:03 Cheltenham | 3h04 | 15:07 Chelmsford | 2 changes | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Train companies: Great Western Railway (GWR) from Cheltenham to Chelmsford trainsGreat Western Railway (GWR) trains will get you between Cheltenham and Chelmsford. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Great Western Railway (GWR) Duration
2h 51m
Cheapest Great Western Railway (GWR) Price
£106
Great Western Railway (GWR) frequency
12 a day
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: Cheltenham to Chelmsford train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cheltenham 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 train distance from Cheltenham to Chelmsford is 176 km.
The first train from Cheltenham to Chelmsford leaves at 5:11.
The last train from Cheltenham to Chelmsford departs at 21:05.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Cheltenham to Chelmsford.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Cheltenham to Chelmsford.
There is no night train service from Cheltenham to Chelmsford.
The train station in Cheltenham that goes to Chelmsford is Cheltenham Spa (CNM), and it arrives at Chelmsford station (CHM).
Booking trains from Cheltenham 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 Cheltenham to Chelmsford offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes. Travellers can enjoy views of the picturesque Cotswolds countryside and charming villages before reaching the more urbanised areas near London and Chelmsford.
Yes, you can take the train from Cheltenham to Chelmsford.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Cheltenham and Chelmsford
Most Cheltenham to Chelmsford trains use the Cheltenham Spa to Chelmsford station pair. Use this guide to compare Cheltenham and Chelmsford train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Cheltenham
Arrival train stations in Chelmsford
Which Cheltenham station do trains to Chelmsford leave from?
Trains from Cheltenham to Chelmsford leave from Cheltenham Spa. The station is 1 km from Cheltenham city centre at Cheltenham Spa Railway Station, Queens Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL51 8NP, United Kingdom.
Cheltenham SpaCheltenham Spa Railway Station, Queens Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL51 8NP, United Kingdom+44 345 165 2030
City-centre transport
Getting to Cheltenham Spa from Cheltenham city centre
Cheltenham Spa is 1 km from Cheltenham city centre. Public transport options include:
BusD, E, G · 7m · £4 · every ~25 min
M1 · 8m
Cheltenham Spa train station facilities and services
Cheltenham Spa has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: The Railway Inn, The Coconut Tree
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Cheltenham Spa. Information desks are located near the main entrance.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Cheltenham Spa. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cheltenham Spa: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Cheltenham Spa: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cheltenham Spa: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Queens Hotel Cheltenham, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cheltenham, Hotel du Vin & Bistro Cheltenham.
Which Chelmsford station do trains from Cheltenham arrive at?
Trains from Cheltenham 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 Cheltenham
More options for your journey from Cheltenham to Chelmsford
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Chelmsford and Cheltenham
Most popular train connections to Chelmsford
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