- Recommended
Brighton Museum & Art Gallery
Contemporary art gallery in the Royal Pavilion Garden, showing major exhibitions in a restored historic building.
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 Colchester to Brighton
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 17 Sept
Cheapest price on 17 Sept
£51
Average ticket price on 17 Sept
£64
Fastest journey on 17 Sept
2 h 39 m
Average journey duration on 17 Sept
2 h 42 m
Trains on 17 Sept
4
Distance
138 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Colchester to Brighton is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Colchester to Brighton will cost around £64 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £51.
Fast trains
On Thu 17 Sept, we found 4 trains from Colchester to Brighton, including 4 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 138 km distance in an average of 2 h 42 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 39 m .
The slowest trains will take 2 h 44 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.
9:012h42Colchester11:43Brighton£511One-way0 changes- 8:012h42Colchester10:43Brighton£511One-way0 changes
- 8:092h39Colchester10:48Brighton£761One-way0 changes
- 7:042h44Colchester9:48Brighton£761One-way0 changes
- 8:092h39Colchester10:48Brighton£761One-way0 changes
- 9:012h42Colchester11:43Brighton£511One-way0 changes
- 8:012h42Colchester10:43Brighton£511One-way0 changes
- 7:042h44Colchester9:48Brighton£761One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Colchester to Brighton
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Colchester to Brighton among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £10 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 57m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.1kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £10, while a train costs an average of £68.
Distance: 138 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach | Driving |
|---|---|---|
£68 Average Price | £10 Average Price Cheapest | £33 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 57m Average total duration Fastest 2h 27m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 22m Average total duration 4h 52m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 5m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Colchester to Brighton is a coach with an average price of £10.
This is compared to other travel options from Colchester to Brighton:
A coach is £58 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Colchester to Brighton costing on average £68.
The fastest way to travel from Colchester to Brighton is by train with an average journey time of 2h 27m.
Other travel options to Brighton take longer:
Coach takes on average 4h 52m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Colchester and Brighton including taking a train and coach.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around £68 compared to roughly £33 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about £-34.56. The journey takes 2h 27m versus 2h 5m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Colchester to Brighton train times
The table below shows live departures for Colchester to Brighton trains for tomorrow, Thursday 17 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:04 Colchester | 2h44 | 9:48 Brighton | 0 changesdirect | |
| 8:01 Colchester | 2h42 | 10:43 Brighton | 0 changesdirect | |
| 8:09 Colchester | 2h39 | 10:48 Brighton | 0 changesdirect | |
| 9:01 Colchester | 2h42 | 11:43 Brighton | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Colchester to Brighton 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.
Thu
17 Sept
17 Sept
Fri
18 Sept
18 Sept
Sat
19 Sept
19 Sept
Sun
20 Sept
20 Sept
Mon
21 Sept
21 Sept
Tue
22 Sept
22 Sept
Wed
23 Sept
23 Sept
Why should you book Colchester to Brighton trains with Omio?
Thameslink as well as Greater Anglia offer trains services from Colchester to Brighton.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Colchester to Brighton.
Why book with Omio vs Thameslink?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Thameslink, but also compare tickets for the likes of Greater Anglia to find the best option for your trip from Colchester to Brighton.
- 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 Thameslink with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Colchester to Brighton.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Greater Anglia to find the best option for your trip from Colchester to Brighton.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Colchester to Brighton.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Colchester to Brighton
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Colchester to Brighton run on average 7 times per day, taking around 2h 27m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £51 but you can travel from only £9 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 03:14, the last at 22:28. The fastest train covers the 138 km distance in 2h 42m.
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from £9
Distance 138 km |
Average train duration 2h 27m |
Cheapest ticket price £51 |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 2h 42m |
First train 3:14 |
Last train 22:28 |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 14 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from £9
Train companies: Thameslink, Greater Anglia from Colchester to Brighton trainsThameslink, Greater Anglia trains will get you between Colchester and Brighton 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
2h 12m
Cheapest Greater Anglia Price
£76
Greater Anglia frequency
25 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
Thameslink
About
Thameslink is a train service that operates in the United Kingdom. It is operated by Govia Thameslink Railway and serves the counties of Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire, London, and Surrey. The trains run from early morning until late at night, with some services running 24 hours a day. There are a variety of train types available, including Class 700 Desiro City, Class 377 Electrostar, Class 387/1 Electrostar, and Class 319/0. Ticket types include Anytime, Off-Peak, Super Off-Peak, and Advance. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, and air conditioning. The most popular routes for Thameslink are London to Brighton, London to Bedford, and London to Luton.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Thameslink Duration
2h 42m
Cheapest Thameslink Price
£51
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund available if service is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on some routes offering drinks and snacks
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets free of charge. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Brighton
Things to do in Brighton
Discover the best of Brighton — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Brighton trip today.
- Recommended
Brighton Museum & Art Gallery
Museum inside the Royal Pavilion Estate covering local history, fashion, decorative art and changing exhibitions.
Centre for Contemporary Arts Brighton
Seafront gallery dedicated to photography and contemporary visual culture, with changing exhibitions and events.
- Must visit
The Lanes
Narrow historic lanes filled with independent shops and characterful passages, ideal for a classic Brighton wander.
- Must visit
North Laine
Bohemian shopping district known for street art, vintage stores, market atmosphere and a strong local feel.
- Recommended
Preston Park
Large central green space with formal gardens, open lawns, playgrounds and easy access from the station and seafront.
- Gluten-free
Sussex Smokies
Fresh herring traditionally smoked over oak, a Sussex speciality long linked to the old fishing trade around Brighton and nearby coastal towns.
Fish And Chips
Classic British fish and chips made with fresh local catch and chips by the seaside; a staple meal closely tied to Brighton’s coastal identity.
Brighton Sausages
A long-standing Brighton favourite: dry-cured pork sausages, usually grilled or fried, known locally through the city’s famous sausage makers.
Burnt Orange
Elegant restaurant serving seasonal British tasting menus in a refined but welcoming setting close to the seafront.
The Chilli Pickle
Lively modern Indian restaurant in The Lanes, known for creative small plates, bold flavours and a stylish atmosphere.
The Salt Room
Well-known seafood restaurant serving fish, oysters and classic British dishes in a polished room near the city centre.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for a UK seaside city. Hotels and dining are pricier than many British towns, but buses, casual eats and supermarket options help keep daily costs manageable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- £20-35 per person for a meal.
- Fine dining
- £60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service may be included in restaurants; if not, 10-12.5% is common for good service. Taxi fares are often rounded up. Tipping in cafés is optional.
Brighton & Hove Buses app
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £3
- Day pass
- £6.30
To the city centre
Brighton Station -> North Street, Brighton
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Use Tap-on-Tap-Off with a contactless card, Apple Pay or Google Pay to get the best on-bus fare automatically.
- Brighton Station is within walking distance of central Brighton; many city centre buses are about 10 min away on foot from the station stops.
FAQs: Colchester to Brighton train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Colchester to Brighton 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 Brighton, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Colchester to Brighton can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £51, while the average price tends to be around £68.
The train journey from Colchester to Brighton covers a distance of 138 km and takes approximately 2h 42m. Trains run 7 per day.
The train distance from Colchester to Brighton is 138 km.
The first train from Colchester to Brighton leaves at 3:14.
The last train from Colchester to Brighton departs at 22:28.
Trains from Colchester to Brighton run approximately 7 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Colchester to Brighton.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Colchester to Brighton.
To get from Colchester to Brighton, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
There is no night train service from Colchester to Brighton.
The train station in Colchester that goes to Brighton is Colchester station (COL), and it arrives at Brighton station (BTN).
The cheapest way to get from Colchester to Brighton is by coach, costing approximately £9.
Booking trains from Colchester to Brighton in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Colchester to Brighton offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes. Travellers can enjoy views of the Essex countryside, passing through rolling fields and quaint villages, before reaching the bustling cityscape of Brighton. While not renowned for dramatic scenery, the route provides a pleasant and varied backdrop for the journey.
A day trip from Colchester to Brighton is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 42m. However, trains run 6 times per day.
In Brighton, you can explore the vibrant street art scene with guided tours, visit the British Airways i360 for panoramic views, enjoy performances at the Brighton Dome, and take a scenic walk along the Undercliff Walk. Experience the nightlife in lively bars and clubs. Best sights include the exotic Royal Pavilion, historic Brighton Pier, popular Brighton Beach, charming Lanes, and the Brighton Museum & Art Gallery.
Two to three days are generally sufficient to explore Brighton's main attractions, enjoy its vibrant culture, and relax by the seaside.
Yes, you can take the train from Colchester to Brighton.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Colchester and Brighton
Most Colchester to Brighton trains use the Colchester to Brighton station pair. Use this guide to compare Colchester and Brighton train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Colchester
Arrival train stations in Brighton
Which Colchester station do trains to Brighton leave from?
Trains from Colchester to Brighton leave from Colchester. The station is 2 km from Colchester city centre at Colchester [North] station, Station Approach Road, Colchester, Essex, CO1 1XD.
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 · £0.90 · 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.
Which Brighton station do trains from Colchester arrive at?
Trains from Colchester to Brighton arrive at Brighton. Brighton is from Brighton city centre.
BrightonBrighton Station, Queens Rd, Brighton BN1 3XP, United Kingdom+44 345 127 2920
City-centre transport
Getting to Brighton from Brighton city centre
Bus37, 52 · 4m · £0.90 · every ~6 min
Brighton train station facilities and services
Brighton has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: The Grand Central, The Cyclist
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Brighton. Information desks are located in the main concourse.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Brighton. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Brighton: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Brighton: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Brighton: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Jurys Inn Brighton, Ibis Brighton City Centre, My Brighton Hotel.
Most popular train connections from Colchester
More options for your journey from Colchester to Brighton
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Brighton and Colchester
Most popular train connections to Brighton
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.
