- 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 Folkestone to Colchester
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 02 Nov
- Cheapest price on 02 Nov
- £71
- Average ticket price on 02 Nov
- £71
- Fastest journey on 02 Nov
- 1 h 45 m
- Average journey duration on 02 Nov
- 1 h 55 m
- Trains on 02 Nov
- 27
- Distance
- 92 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Folkestone to Colchester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Folkestone to Colchester will cost around £71 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £71.
Fast trains
To travel from Folkestone to Colchester you need to make at least 2 changes.
4:44 2h19 Folkestone 7:03 Colchester £71 1 One-way 3 changes7:05 2h08 Folkestone 9:13 Colchester £71 1 One-way 3 changes9:05 2h15 Folkestone 11:20 Colchester £71 1 One-way 3 changes16:07 2h07 Folkestone 18:14 Colchester £71 1 One-way 3 changes17:08 2h10 Folkestone 19:18 Colchester £71 1 One-way 3 changes
7:31 1h45 Folkestone 9:16 Colchester £72 1 One-way 2 changes6:31 1h46 Folkestone 8:17 Colchester £72 1 One-way 2 changes15:58 2h00 Folkestone 17:58 Colchester £72 1 One-way 2 changes8:01 2h02 Folkestone 10:03 Colchester £72 1 One-way 2 changes9:01 2h02 Folkestone 11:03 Colchester £72 1 One-way 2 changes
Journey information
Overview: Train from Folkestone to Colchester
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Take a train from Folkestone to Colchester and enjoy the approximately 92 km long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest train runs at 05:12, the last at 22:58.
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 92 km |
First train 5:12 |
Last train 22:58 |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
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 Folkestone to Colchester trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Folkestone to Colchester.
The train distance from Folkestone to Colchester is 92 km.
The first train from Folkestone to Colchester leaves at 5:12.
The last train from Folkestone to Colchester departs at 22:58.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Folkestone to Colchester.
Live departures
Folkestone to Colchester train times
The table below shows live departures for Folkestone 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:58 Folkestone | 2h13 | 11:11 Colchester | 2 changes | |
| 9:58 Folkestone | 2h13 | 12:11 Colchester | 2 changes | |
| 10:58 Folkestone | 2h13 | 13:11 Colchester | 2 changes | |
| 11:58 Folkestone | 2h13 | 14:11 Colchester | 2 changes | |
| 12:58 Folkestone | 2h13 | 15:11 Colchester | 2 changes | |
| 14:01 Folkestone | 2h10 | 16:11 Colchester | 2 changes | |
| 15:01 Folkestone | 2h10 | 17:11 Colchester | 2 changes | |
| 15:58 Folkestone | 2h13 | 18:11 Colchester | 2 changes | |
| 16:58 Folkestone | 2h13 | 19:11 Colchester | 2 changes | |
| 17:58 Folkestone | 2h13 | 20:11 Colchester | 2 changes | |
| 18:58 Folkestone | 1h55 | 20:53 Colchester | 2 changes | |
| 20:01 Folkestone | 2h10 | 22:11 Colchester | 2 changes | |
| 21:01 Folkestone | 2h10 | 23:11 Colchester | 2 changes | |
| 22:01 Folkestone | 2h10 | 0:11 Colchester | 2 changes | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Train companies: Southeastern from Folkestone to Colchester trainsSoutheastern trains will get you between Folkestone and Colchester. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Southeastern
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Southeastern Duration
1h 45m
Cheapest Southeastern Price
£71
Southeastern frequency
16 a day
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Folkestone and Colchester
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Folkestone to Colchester.
There is no night train service from Folkestone 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 Folkestone to Colchester offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, with views of the Kent countryside and glimpses of the coast as you travel through Essex. While not considered among the most scenic routes in the UK, it does provide pleasant and varied landscapes.
FAQs: Folkestone to Colchester train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Folkestone 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 Folkestone 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 Folkestone to Colchester.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Folkestone and Colchester
Most Folkestone to Colchester trains use the Folkestone Central to Colchester station pair, with some services arriving at Hythe (Essex). Use this guide to compare Folkestone and Colchester train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Folkestone
Arrival train stations in Colchester
Which Folkestone station do trains to Colchester leave from?
Trains from Folkestone to Colchester leave from Folkestone Central. The station is 1 km from Folkestone city centre at Folkestone Central station, Station Approach, Folkestone, Kent, CT19 5HB.
Folkestone CentralFolkestone Central station, Station Approach, Folkestone, Kent, CT19 5HB+44 3303339232
City-centre transport
Getting to Folkestone Central from Folkestone city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesBus stop outside of the station (exit station, walk down the slope and turn right. Bus stop is just beyond the bridge)
Folkestone Central train station facilities and services
Folkestone Central has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Folkestone Central.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Folkestone Central. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Helpline Contact: 0345 322 7021 or Text relay 18001 0345 322 7021 Freephone 0800 783 4524 or Text Relay 18001 0800 783 4524, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Folkestone Central: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Folkestone Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Folkestone Central: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A. This station has step free access to all platforms - Step free access via lift or steep ramps from main entrance, Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are not wheelchair accessible, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available to book, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: In the booking hall, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Monday - Friday 24 Hours a Day Saturday 24 Hours a Day Sunday 24 Hours a Day, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Folkestone WestFolkestone West station, Station Approach, off Shorncliffe Road, Folkestone, Kent, CT20 3PA+44 3303339232
City-centre transport
Getting to Folkestone West from Folkestone city centre
Folkestone West is 2 km from Folkestone city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRamsgate - St Pancras International, Faversham - St Pancras International, Margate - Ashford International, Ramsgate - London Charing Cross, Dover Priory - London Charing Cross, Ramsgate - Ashford International, Dover Priory - Ashford International, Folkestone Central - London Victoria, Dover Priory - London Cannon Street, Faversham - London Charing Cross, Dover Priory - St Pancras International, Sandwich - St Pancras International, Folkestone Central - St Pancras International, Folkestone Central - London Charing Cross, Folkestone Central - Ashford International, Dover Priory - London Bridge, Ramsgate - London Bridge, Faversham - London Bridge, Dover Priory - Tonbridge, Deal - St Pancras International, Deal - Ashford International · 2m · £1 · every ~5 min
Bus10, 17, 71, 71A · 4m · £3 · every ~21 min
Folkestone West train station facilities and services
Folkestone West has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Folkestone West.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Folkestone West. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Helpline Contact: 0345 322 7021 or Text relay 18001 0345 322 7021 Freephone 0800 783 4524 or Text Relay 18001 0800 783 4524, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Folkestone West: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Folkestone West: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Folkestone West: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Category B2. This station has a degree of step-free access to the platform, which may be in both directions or in one direction only - please check details - Step Free access to Platform 1 via main entrance off Shorncliffe Road. Step free access to platform 2 via side entrance off Station Road. Step access between platforms via station subway. Step free Interchange between platforms via steep roads is in excess of 500 metres, Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are not wheelchair accessible, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available to book, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: by entrance to platform 1, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Which Colchester station do trains from Folkestone arrive at?
Trains from Folkestone to Colchester most often arrive at Colchester. Some services arrive at Hythe (Essex), so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Colchester arrival station.
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.
Hythe (Essex)Hythe station, Station Road, Hythe, Essex, CO2 8JR
City-centre transport
Getting to Hythe (Essex) from Colchester city centre
Hythe (Essex) is 1 km from Colchester city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainColchester - Clacton-on-Sea, Colchester - Walton-on-the-Naze · 4m · £1 · every ~2 min
Bus54 · 7m · £1 · every ~11 min
54 · 11m · £3 · every ~11 min
Hythe (Essex) train station facilities and services
Hythe (Essex) has practical services for this route, including Parking, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office and Bike Parking.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Hythe (Essex): Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Hythe (Essex): Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Hythe (Essex): Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, 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.
Train stations for Folkestone to Colchester
Check train stations information for Folkestone and Colchester, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Folkestone that goes to Colchester is Folkestone Central, and it arrives at Colchester.
Most popular train connections from Folkestone
More options for your journey from Folkestone to Colchester
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Colchester and Folkestone
Most popular train connections to Colchester
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