- Must visit
Ipswich Museum
Ipswich’s main museum with natural history, archaeology and local collections, including Egyptian objects and displays on Suffolk’s past.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Colchester to Ipswich
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 18 Sept
Cheapest price on 18 Sept
£12
Average ticket price on 18 Sept
£12
Fastest journey on 18 Sept
18 m
Average journey duration on 18 Sept
18 m
Trains on 18 Sept
6
Distance
26 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Colchester to Ipswich is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Colchester to Ipswich will cost around £12 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £12.
Fast trains
On Fri 18 Sept, we found 6 trains from Colchester to Ipswich, including 6 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 26 km distance in an average of 18 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 18 m .
The slowest trains will take 19 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.
P012269:470h19Colchester station (COL)10:06Ipswich station (IPS)£121One-way0 changes- P012158:190h19Colchester station (COL)8:38Ipswich station (IPS)£121One-way0 changes
- P012188:490h18Colchester station (COL)9:07Ipswich station (IPS)£121One-way0 changes
- P671928:070h19Colchester station (COL)8:26Ipswich station (IPS)£121One-way0 changes
- P671979:060h18Colchester station (COL)9:24Ipswich station (IPS)£121One-way0 changes
- P012188:490h18Colchester station (COL)9:07Ipswich station (IPS)£121One-way0 changes
- P671979:060h18Colchester station (COL)9:24Ipswich station (IPS)£121One-way0 changes
- P012209:180h18Colchester station (COL)9:36Ipswich station (IPS)£121One-way0 changes
- P012269:470h19Colchester station (COL)10:06Ipswich station (IPS)£121One-way0 changes
- P012158:190h19Colchester station (COL)8:38Ipswich station (IPS)£121One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare coach and train for Colchester to Ipswich
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Colchester to Ipswich among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £7 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 49m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.0kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £7, while a train costs an average of £11.
Distance: 26 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach | Driving |
|---|---|---|
£11 Average Price | £7 Average Price Cheapest | £5 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
49m Average total duration Fastest 19m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 10m Average total duration 40m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 35m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.0kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.0 - 0.1kg 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 Ipswich is a coach with an average price of £7.
This is compared to other travel options from Colchester to Ipswich:
A coach is £4 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Colchester to Ipswich costing on average £11.
The fastest way to travel from Colchester to Ipswich is by train with an average journey time of 19m.
Other travel options to Ipswich take longer:
Coach takes on average 40m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Colchester and Ipswich including taking a coach and train.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 16m sooner (19m by train vs 35m by car). Tickets start at around £11 compared to roughly £5 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.
Direct services run with Greater Anglia.
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
Colchester to Ipswich train times
The table below shows live departures for Colchester to Ipswich trains for tomorrow, Friday 18 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| P67192 | 8:07 Colchester station (COL) | 0h19 | 8:26 Ipswich station (IPS) | 0 changesdirect | |
| P01215 | 8:19 Colchester station (COL) | 0h19 | 8:38 Ipswich station (IPS) | 0 changesdirect | |
| P01218 | 8:49 Colchester station (COL) | 0h18 | 9:07 Ipswich station (IPS) | 0 changesdirect | |
| P67197 | 9:06 Colchester station (COL) | 0h18 | 9:24 Ipswich station (IPS) | 0 changesdirect | |
| P01220 | 9:18 Colchester station (COL) | 0h18 | 9:36 Ipswich station (IPS) | 0 changesdirect | |
| P01226 | 9:47 Colchester station (COL) | 0h19 | 10:06 Ipswich station (IPS) | 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 Ipswich by coach or train
Compare coach and 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.
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
Thu
24 Sept
24 Sept
Why should you book Colchester to Ipswich trains with Omio?
Greater Anglia operates all trains services from Colchester to Ipswich.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Colchester to Ipswich.
Why book with Omio vs Greater Anglia?
- 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 Greater Anglia with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Colchester to Ipswich.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Colchester to Ipswich.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Colchester to Ipswich
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Colchester to Ipswich run on average 7 times per day, taking around 19m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £6 but you can travel from only £5 by coach.
There are 7 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:02, the last at 23:55. The fastest train covers the 26 km distance in 18m.
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 £5
Distance 26 km |
Average train duration 19m |
Cheapest ticket price £6 |
Trains per day 7 |
Direct trains 7 |
Fastest train 18m |
First train 0:02 |
Last train 23:55 |
Cheapest Month Sept |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 35 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 £5
Train companies: Greater Anglia from Colchester to Ipswich trainsGreater Anglia trains will get you between Colchester and Ipswich from £5. 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
18m
Cheapest Greater Anglia Price
£6
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
Complete guide to Ipswich
Things to do in Ipswich
Discover the best of Ipswich — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Ipswich trip today.
- Must visit
Christchurch Mansion
Gallery in Christchurch Mansion showing works by Constable and Gainsborough, plus changing exhibitions in a historic setting.
- Recommended
The Hold: Ipswich Waterfront
Museum on the redeveloped docks telling the story of Ipswich’s maritime trade, industry and local life through interactive displays.
- Must visit
Ipswich Waterfront
Lively regenerated marina with quayside walks, historic warehouses and wide views; ideal for a relaxed stroll by the water.
- Must visit
Christchurch Park
Large public park with formal gardens, ponds and open lawns around Christchurch Mansion; a favourite green escape near the centre.
- Recommended
Cornhill
Historic square at the civic heart of Ipswich, framed by notable buildings and often used for markets, events and seasonal displays.
Suffolk Sausage
A hearty Suffolk pork sausage, traditionally seasoned with sage and pepper. It is a long-standing county speciality often served with mash or in a sandwich.
- Gluten-free
Suffolk Ham
Cured ham from Suffolk, usually dry-cured and sliced thin. It reflects the county’s strong pork-curing tradition and is a popular local deli staple.
- Gluten-free
Smoked Herring
Smoked herring from the nearby Suffolk coast, especially linked with Lowestoft. Traditionally eaten for breakfast or in fish dishes with a deep smoky flavour.
Melekzade
Well-known Turkish restaurant with grilled meats, meze and warm service in a lively yet comfortable dining room.
Indian Knight
Established Indian restaurant known for refined curries and attentive service in an elegant setting.
The Last Anchor
Stylish marina restaurant serving modern British food, steaks and seafood in a relaxed waterfront setting.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate by UK standards. Hotels and dining cost less than London, while buses and casual meals are fairly affordable for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a basic lunch.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is sometimes included in restaurants; otherwise tip about 10% for good service. Taxi fares can be rounded up. Tipping in cafés is optional.
Ipswich Bus App
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.30
- Day pass
- £4.40
To the city centre
Ipswich Railway Station -> Ipswich Town Centre
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Ipswich Buses Town fares currently include a £2.30 single and £4.40 day ticket in the town zone. Buy in the official app for mobile tickets.
- Ipswich Railway Station is about a 10–15 minute walk from the town centre. Buses and taxis also leave from the station forecourt.
FAQs: Colchester to Ipswich train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Colchester to Ipswich 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 Ipswich, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Colchester to Ipswich can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £6, while the average price tends to be around £11.
The train journey from Colchester to Ipswich covers a distance of 26 km and takes approximately 18m. Trains run 7 per day.
The train distance from Colchester to Ipswich is 26 km.
The first train from Colchester to Ipswich leaves at 0:02.
The last train from Colchester to Ipswich departs at 23:55.
Trains from Colchester to Ipswich run approximately 7 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Colchester to Ipswich.
Yes, there is a direct train between Colchester and Ipswich. The service operates 7 times per day, provided by Greater Anglia.
To get from Colchester to Ipswich, you can choose from several travel options including coach and train.
There is no night train service from Colchester to Ipswich.
The train station in Colchester that goes to Ipswich is Colchester station (COL), and it arrives at Ipswich station (IPS).
The cheapest way to get from Colchester to Ipswich is by coach, costing approximately £5.
Booking trains from Colchester to Ipswich 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 Ipswich offers pleasant views of the East Anglian countryside, featuring rolling fields and occasional glimpses of the River Stour, making it a moderately scenic route.
Yes, a day trip from Colchester to Ipswich is feasible. The journey takes 18m and covers 26 km. Trains run 6 times per day.
In Ipswich, you can enjoy a variety of activities such as catching a performance at the New Wolsey Theatre, exploring the scenic walking trails at Orwell Country Park, or learning about local transport history at the Ipswich Transport Museum. Dance enthusiasts can attend performances and workshops at DanceEast, while families might enjoy a visit to Jimmy's Farm & Wildlife Park. For sightseeing, visit the vibrant Ipswich Waterfront, the historic Christchurch Mansion, or the informative Ipswich Museum. Relax in the picturesque Holywells Park or savour local produce at the Suffolk Food Hall.
For a fulfilling visit to Ipswich, three to four days are typically recommended to explore its historic sites, enjoy the waterfront, and experience the local culture.
Yes, you can take the train from Colchester to Ipswich.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Colchester and Ipswich
Most Colchester to Ipswich trains use the Colchester to Ipswich station pair. Use this guide to compare Colchester and Ipswich 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 Ipswich
Which Colchester station do trains to Ipswich leave from?
Trains from Colchester to Ipswich 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.
Colchester TownColchester Town station, St. Botolphs Circus, Colchester, Essex, CO2 7EF
City-centre transport
Getting to Colchester Town from Colchester city centre
Bus43 · 1m · £0.90 · every ~1 min
68, 55, 68A · 1m · £3 · every ~4 min
Colchester Town train station facilities and services
Colchester Town has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, 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 Town.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Colchester Town.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Colchester Town. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0800 028 28 78.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Colchester Town: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Colchester Town: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Colchester Town: 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, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Which Ipswich station do trains from Colchester arrive at?
Trains from Colchester to Ipswich arrive at Ipswich. Ipswich is 1 km from Ipswich city centre.
IpswichIpswich station, Burrell Road, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP2 8AL+44 3450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Ipswich from Ipswich city centre
Ipswich is 1 km from Ipswich city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus13, 12, 23, 3, 119, 3E · 7m · £2 · every ~27 min
12, 3, 13, 15, 119, 3E, 23 · 9m · £2 · every ~35 min
111 · 21m
Ipswich train station facilities and services
Ipswich has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Ipswich.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Ipswich. ATMs are available at Ipswich.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Ipswich.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Ipswich: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Ipswich: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Ipswich: 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: Yes.
More options for your journey from Colchester to Ipswich
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Ipswich and Colchester
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