- Recommended
Chelmsford Museum
City museum in Oaklands House covering Chelmsford's archaeology, industry and local life. Good for a clear introduction to the area.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ 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 Chester to Chelmsford
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 21 Sept
Cheapest price on 21 Sept
£0.00
Average ticket price on 21 Sept
£175
Fastest journey on 21 Sept
2 h 55 m
Average journey duration on 21 Sept
2 h 55 m
Trains on 21 Sept
30
Distance
279 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Chester to Chelmsford is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
Fast trains
To travel from Chester to Chelmsford you need to make at least 3 changes.
4:184h03Chester8:21ChelmsfordFind prices4 changes- 4:483h48Chester8:36Chelmsford£1791One-way4 changes
- 5:373h13Chester8:50Chelmsford£1791One-way4 changes
- 5:563h13Chester9:09Chelmsford£1791One-way4 changes
- 6:563h11Chester10:07Chelmsford£1791One-way4 changes
7:322h55Chester10:27Chelmsford£1841One-way3 changes- 8:322h55Chester11:27Chelmsford£1841One-way3 changes
- 9:322h55Chester12:27Chelmsford£1841One-way3 changes
- 10:322h55Chester13:27Chelmsford£1841One-way3 changes
- 11:322h55Chester14:27Chelmsford£1841One-way3 changes
Travel Information
Compare train for Chester to Chelmsford
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Chester to Chelmsford among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of £96 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 23m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of £96, while a flight costs an average of £319.
Distance: 279 km
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
£96 Average Price Cheapest | £319 Average Price | £55 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 23m Average total duration Fastest 2h 53m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 43m Average total duration 1h 43m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 4h 16m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Chester to Chelmsford is a train with an average price of £96.
This is compared to other travel options from Chester to Chelmsford:
A train is £223 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Chester to Chelmsford costing on average £319.
The fastest way to travel from Chester to Chelmsford is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 43m.
Other travel options to Chelmsford take longer:
Train takes on average 2h 53m.
Yes, you can take a train between Chester and Chelmsford.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 1h 23m sooner (2h 53m by train vs 4h 16m by car). Tickets start at around £96 compared to roughly £55 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
Chester to Chelmsford train times
The table below shows live departures for Chester to Chelmsford trains for today, Sunday 20 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 W45204+ G01015+ S25330+ Tube from London Marylebone to Stratford (London) | 9:20 Chester station (CTR) | 6h50 | 16:10 Chelmsford station (CHM) | 4 changes | |
| W44605 · G38896 · G38549+S25329 | 9:42 Chester station (CTR) | 7h28 | 17:10 Chelmsford station (CHM) | 5 changes | |
| W44605 · G38896 · G38549+S25329 | 9:42 Chester station (CTR) | 6h59 | 16:41 Chelmsford station (CHM) | 6 changes | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Chester 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.
Mon
21 Sept
21 Sept
Tue
22 Sept
22 Sept
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
Why should you book Chester to Chelmsford trains with Omio?
Avanti West Coast operates all trains services from Chester to Chelmsford.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Chester to Chelmsford.
Why book with Omio vs Avanti West Coast?
- 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 Chester to Chelmsford
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Chester to Chelmsford run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 53m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £96 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 03:39, the last at 19:56. The fastest train covers the 279 km distance in 2h 49m.
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 279 km |
Average train duration 2h 53m |
Cheapest ticket price £96 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 2h 49m |
First train 3:39 |
Last train 19:56 |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Wed |
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: Avanti West Coast from Chester to Chelmsford trainsAvanti West Coast trains will get you between Chester and Chelmsford from £96. 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 Avanti West Coast Duration
2h 49m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
£96
Avanti West Coast frequency
6 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
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: Chester to Chelmsford train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chester 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 Chester to Chelmsford can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £96, while the average price tends to be around £96.
The train journey from Chester to Chelmsford covers a distance of 279 km and takes approximately 2h 49m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Chester to Chelmsford is 279 km.
The first train from Chester to Chelmsford leaves at 3:39.
The last train from Chester to Chelmsford departs at 19:56.
Trains from Chester to Chelmsford run approximately 6 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Chester to Chelmsford.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Chester to Chelmsford.
To travel from Chester to Chelmsford, you can take a train.
There is no night train service from Chester to Chelmsford.
The train station in Chester that goes to Chelmsford is Chester station (CTR), and it arrives at Chelmsford station (CHM).
The cheapest way to get from Chester to Chelmsford is by train, costing approximately £96.
Booking trains from Chester 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 Chester to Chelmsford offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, including views of the picturesque Cheshire countryside and various towns and cities along the route.
A day trip from Chester to Chelmsford is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 49m. Trains run 6 times per day.
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 Chester to Chelmsford.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Chester and Chelmsford
Most Chester to Chelmsford trains use the Chester to Chelmsford station pair. Use this guide to compare Chester and Chelmsford train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Chester
Arrival train stations in Chelmsford
Which Chester station do trains to Chelmsford leave from?
Trains from Chester to Chelmsford leave from Chester. The station is 1 km from Chester city centre at Chester Station, City Road, Chester, Cheshire, CH1 3NS.
ChesterChester Station, City Road, Chester, Cheshire, CH1 3NS+44 3450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Chester from Chester city centre
Chester is 1 km from Chester city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus100, 16 · 4m · £4 · every ~2 min
Chester train station facilities and services
Chester has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Chester.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Chester.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Chester. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from information point, Helpline Contact: 03333 211202, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Chester: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Chester: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Chester: 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.
Which Chelmsford station do trains from Chester arrive at?
Trains from Chester 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 Chester
More options for your journey from Chester to Chelmsford
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Chelmsford and Chester
Most popular train connections to 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.
