- Must visit
Colchester Castle Museum
Main city museum inside the castle, covering Roman Colchester, local archaeology and later history in a dramatic historic setting.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Chester to Colchester
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 02 Nov
- Cheapest price on 02 Nov
- £182
- Average ticket price on 02 Nov
- £184
- Fastest journey on 02 Nov
- 3 h 13 m
- Average journey duration on 02 Nov
- 3 h 14 m
- Trains on 02 Nov
- 30
- Distance
- 295 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Chester to Colchester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Chester to Colchester will cost around £184 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £182.
Fast trains
To travel from Chester to Colchester you need to make at least 3 changes.
4:48 4h17 Chester 9:05 Colchester £182 1 One-way 4 changes5:37 3h36 Chester 9:13 Colchester £182 1 One-way 4 changes5:56 3h20 Chester 9:16 Colchester £182 1 One-way 4 changes6:56 3h20 Chester 10:16 Colchester £182 1 One-way 4 changes7:56 3h24 Chester 11:20 Colchester £182 1 One-way 4 changes
13:32 3h13 Chester 16:45 Colchester £187 1 One-way 3 changes16:32 3h13 Chester 19:45 Colchester £187 1 One-way 3 changes7:32 3h14 Chester 10:46 Colchester £187 1 One-way 3 changes8:32 3h14 Chester 11:46 Colchester £187 1 One-way 3 changes9:32 3h14 Chester 12:46 Colchester £187 1 One-way 3 changes
Journey information
Overview: Train from Chester to Colchester
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Chester to Colchester run on average 8 times per day, taking around 4h 3m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £69 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 05:35, the last at 20:00. The fastest train covers the 295 km distance in 2h 58m.
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 295 km |
Average train duration 4h 3m |
Cheapest ticket price £69 |
Trains per day 8 |
Fastest train 2h 58m |
First train 5:35 |
Last train 20:00 |
Cheapest Month Sept |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Best time to book 3 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 Chester to Colchester trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Chester to Colchester.
The cost of a train ticket from Chester to Colchester can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £69, while the average price tends to be around £110.
The train journey from Chester to Colchester covers a distance of 295 km and takes approximately 2h 58m. Trains run 8 per day.
The train distance from Chester to Colchester is 295 km.
The first train from Chester to Colchester leaves at 5:35.
The last train from Chester to Colchester departs at 20:00.
Trains from Chester to Colchester run approximately 8 times per day.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Chester to Colchester.
Live departures
Chester to Colchester train times
The table below shows live departures for Chester to Colchester trains for today, Sunday 1 November. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 8:20 Chester | 6h56 | 15:16 Colchester | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Chester to Colchester trains with Omio?
Avanti West Coast as well as Transport for Wales or Chiltern Railways offer trains services from Chester to Colchester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Chester to Colchester.
Why book with Omio vs Avanti West Coast?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Avanti West Coast, but also compare tickets for the likes of Transport for Wales or Chiltern Railways to find the best option for your trip from Chester to Colchester.
- 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 Raileurope?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Transport for Wales or Chiltern Railways to find the best option for your trip from Chester to Colchester.
Train companies: Avanti West Coast, Transport for Wales, Chiltern Railways from Chester to Colchester trainsAvanti West Coast, Transport for Wales, Chiltern Railways trains will get you between Chester and Colchester from £69. 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 58m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
£69
Avanti West Coast frequency
5 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
Transport for Wales
About
Transport for Wales is a public transport provider in Wales, UK. It operates a comprehensive network of trains, buses and ferries across the country. The trains are modern and comfortable, with a range of different types including InterCity Express Trains, Regional Trains, and Metro Trains. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. There are a variety of ticket types available, including single and return tickets, season tickets, and group tickets. The most popular routes include Cardiff to Swansea, Cardiff to Newport, and Cardiff to Manchester.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Transport for Wales Duration
5h 24m
Cheapest Transport for Wales Price
£93
Transport for Wales frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policy depends on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most routes with snacks and drinks. Some stations have cafes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended but not mandatory. Free of charge when booking 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 allowed with ticket (£5 per day). Guide dogs free
Quiet zone
Chiltern Railways
About
Chiltern Railways is a regional train company in the United Kingdom. Check the different ticket types for your next journey: Duo, Anytime, Season, Super Off Peak, Off Peak and Advance. It operates services from London Marylebone to Birmingham Snow Hill, Oxford, Banbury, Aylesbury, High Wycombe, and Stratford-upon-Avon. It also runs services from Birmingham Moor Street to Stratford-upon-Avon. Chiltern Railways offers a range of train types, including InterCity 125, Class 165 and Class 168 trains. These trains are equipped with comfortable seating, air conditioning, power sockets, and free Wi-Fi. The company offers a variety of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, Off-Peak, and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include a café bar, a shop, and a quiet coach. The most popular routes for Chiltern Railways are London Marylebone to Birmingham Snow Hill, Oxford, and High Wycombe.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Chiltern Railways Duration
5h 9m
Cheapest Chiltern Railways Price
£96
Chiltern Railways frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
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
Optional seat reservation for £3. Free for Advance tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets free in carriers. Dogs allowed with lead
Quiet zone
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Chester and Colchester
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Yes, there is a high-speed train service from Chester to Colchester.
There is no night train service from Chester to Colchester.
Complete guide to Colchester
Things to do in Colchester
Discover the best of Colchester — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Colchester trip today.
- Recommended
The Natural History Museum
Natural history museum in a former church, with displays on Essex wildlife, geology and environment, suited to families and curious visitors.
- Recommended
Hollytrees Museum
Museum charting the city’s social history, from everyday objects to changing local life, housed in a restored historic building.
- Must visit
Castle Park
Central park beside the castle with lawns, mature trees and Roman remains. Ideal for a stroll, picnic or pause between sights.
- Recommended
High Street
Historic main street lined with shops and civic buildings, useful for exploring the town centre and taking in everyday city life.
- Recommended
Dutch Quarter
Characterful district of timber-framed houses and narrow streets, known for its historic atmosphere and photogenic townscape.
- Gluten-free
Colchester Oysters
Native Colchester oysters, served raw or dressed. They have been harvested locally since Roman times and are the town’s best-known traditional food.
- Gluten-free
Smoked Eel
Smoked eel from the Essex coast and estuaries, traditionally cured and smoked for a rich flavour tied to local fishing heritage.
- Gluten-free
Essex Clanger
A traditional Essex bake made with potatoes, onions and pork or beef, slowly cooked until soft. It is a longstanding county comfort food.
Le Talbooth
Fine dining restaurant in Dedham Vale near Colchester, known for polished British cooking and a refined countryside setting.
Church Street Tavern
Established restaurant serving modern British dishes and seafood in a smart yet relaxed setting near the town centre.
Timbers
Popular casual venue for brunch, coffee and seasonal plates, with a friendly atmosphere and strong local reputation.
British pound sterling (£)
Moderate for England: hotels and dining cost less than London, but more than smaller UK towns. Buses are reasonable; central sightseeing is mostly low cost.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4 for cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is sometimes included. If not, tip about 10% in restaurants for good service. Taxis are often rounded up or tipped 10%. Cafés usually do not expect tips, but small change is appreciated.
First Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.50
- Day pass
- £5.80
To the city centre
Colchester Station -> Colchester High Street, Colchester
- Distance
- 2 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- First Bus Essex single fares in Colchester are distance-based; standard adult singles start at £2.00 and are £2.50 for 0.5 to 2 miles.
- Contactless Tap & Cap is available on First Bus in Colchester, so you can pay by card or device and your daily spend is capped at the day ticket price.
Plan your visit to Colchester
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 Colchester.
The train journey from Chester to Colchester offers a mix of urban and rural views, with the route passing through picturesque countryside in parts of Cheshire and Essex, though much of the journey consists of typical urban and suburban landscapes.
FAQs: Chester to Colchester train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chester to Colchester 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 Colchester, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Booking trains from Chester to Colchester 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 Chester to Colchester.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Chester and Colchester
Most Chester to Colchester trains use the Chester to Colchester station pair. Use this guide to compare Chester and Colchester 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 Colchester
Which Chester station do trains to Colchester leave from?
Trains from Chester to Colchester 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 Colchester station do trains from Chester arrive at?
Trains from Chester to Colchester arrive at Colchester. Colchester is 2 km from Colchester city centre.
ColchesterColchester [North] station, Station Approach Road, Colchester, Essex, CO1 1XD+44 8450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Colchester from Colchester city centre
Colchester is 1 km from Colchester city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainClacton-on-Sea - London Liverpool Street, Clacton-on-Sea - Colchester, Colchester Town - London Liverpool Street, Colchester Town - Colchester, Walton-on-the-Naze - Colchester · 8m · £1 · every ~5 min
Bus2A, 68, 87, 53, 53A, 52, 51, X20 · 6m · £2 · every ~31 min
Colchester train station facilities and services
Colchester has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Colchester.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Colchester. ATMs are available at Colchester.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Colchester. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0800 028 28 78, 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 Colchester: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Colchester: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Colchester: 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.
Train stations for Chester to Colchester
Check train stations information for Chester and Colchester, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Chester that goes to Colchester is Chester, and it arrives at Colchester.
More options for your journey from Chester to Colchester
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Colchester and Chester
Most popular train connections to Colchester
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