- 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 Harlow to Colchester
Showing times and prices for 20 Aug
Cheapest price
£53
Average price
£53
Fastest journey
1 h 46 m
Average duration
1 h 46 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
56 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Harlow to Colchester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Harlow to Colchester will cost around £53 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £53.
Fast trains
Of the 1 trains that leave Harlow for Colchester every day 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 56 km distance in an average of 1 h 46 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 46 m .
The slowest trains will take 1 h 46 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.
6:271h46Harlow8:13Colchester£531One-way0 changes
- 6:271h46Harlow8:13Colchester£531One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Harlow to Colchester
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Harlow to Colchester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £23. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 23m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £23, and a train costs an average of £26.
Distance: 56 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
£32 Average Price | £23 Average Price Cheapest |
1h 53m Average total duration Fastest 1h 23m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 27m Average total duration 1h 57m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Live departures
Harlow to Colchester train times
The table below shows live departures for Harlow to Colchester trains for today, Wednesday 19 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:28 Harlow | 1h48 | 9:16 Colchester | 0 changesdirect | |
| 8:28 Harlow | 1h48 | 10:16 Colchester | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Harlow to Colchester 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.
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Why should you book Harlow to Colchester trains with Omio?
Greater Anglia as well as Stansted Express offer trains services from Harlow to Colchester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Harlow to Colchester.
Why book with Omio vs Greater Anglia?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Greater Anglia, but also compare tickets for the likes of Stansted Express to find the best option for your trip from Harlow 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.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Greater Anglia with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Harlow to Colchester.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Harlow to Colchester.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Harlow to Colchester
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Harlow to Colchester run on average 8 times per day, taking around 1h 23m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £26 but you can travel from only £23 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 04:41, the last at 22:33. The fastest train covers the 56 km distance in 1h 33m.
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 £23
Distance 56 km |
Average train duration 1h 23m |
Cheapest ticket price £26 |
Trains per day 8 |
Fastest train 1h 33m |
First train 4:41 |
Last train 22:33 |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 28 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 £23
Train companies: Greater Anglia, Stansted Express from Harlow to Colchester trainsGreater Anglia, Stansted Express trains will get you between Harlow and Colchester from £23. 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 Duration
1h 33m
Cheapest Price
£26
Greater Anglia frequency
8 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
Stansted Express
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 17m
Cheapest Price
£47
Stansted Express frequency
35 a day
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.
FAQs: Harlow to Colchester train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Harlow 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.
The cost of a train ticket from Harlow to Colchester can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £26, while the average price tends to be around £32.
The train journey from Harlow to Colchester covers a distance of 56 km and takes approximately 1h 33m. Trains run 8 per day.
The train distance from Harlow to Colchester is 56 km.
The first train from Harlow to Colchester leaves at 4:41.
The last train from Harlow to Colchester departs at 22:33.
Trains from Harlow to Colchester run approximately 8 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Harlow to Colchester.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Harlow to Colchester.
To get from Harlow to Colchester, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
There is no night train service from Harlow to Colchester.
The train station in Harlow that goes to Colchester is Harlow Town (HWN), and it arrives at Colchester station (COL).
The cheapest way to get from Harlow to Colchester is by coach, costing approximately £23.
Booking trains from Harlow to Colchester in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Harlow to Colchester offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, passing through picturesque countryside areas and small towns, providing a pleasant view throughout the trip.
Yes, a day trip from Harlow to Colchester is feasible as the journey takes 1h 33m and the distance is 56 km. Trains are available with a frequency of 5 per day.
For a fulfilling visit to Colchester, two to three days should suffice to explore its historical sites, such as Colchester Castle and the Roman ruins, enjoy local museums, and experience the natural beauty of nearby areas like High Woods Country Park.
Yes, you can take the train from Harlow to Colchester.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Harlow and Colchester
Most Harlow to Colchester trains use the Harlow Town to Colchester station pair, with some services arriving at Hythe (Essex). Use this guide to compare Harlow and Colchester train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Harlow
Arrival train stations in Colchester
Which Harlow station do trains to Colchester leave from?
Trains from Harlow to Colchester leave from Harlow Town. The station is 1 km from Harlow city centre at Harlow Town station, Station Approach, off Edinburgh Way, Harlow, Essex, CM20 2JD.
Harlow TownHarlow Town station, Station Approach, off Edinburgh Way, Harlow, Essex, CM20 2JD+44 8450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Harlow Town from Harlow city centre
Harlow Town is 1 km from Harlow city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus10 · 21m · £2
Harlow Town train station facilities and services
Harlow Town has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, 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 Harlow Town.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Harlow Town.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Harlow Town. 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 Harlow Town: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Harlow Town: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Harlow 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, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Harlow MillHarlow Mill station, Station Approach, off Cambridge Way, Harlow, Essex, CM20 2EL+44 3450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Harlow Mill from Harlow city centre
Harlow Mill is 2 km from Harlow city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainLondon Liverpool Street - Bishops Stortford, London Liverpool Street - Cambridge North, London Liverpool Street - Cambridge, Stratford, London Liverpool Street - Ely, London Liverpool Street - Audley End · 3m · £0.90 · every ~5 min
Bus510, 509, 509A, 510A · 7m · £2 · every ~16 min
510, 509, 509A, 510A · 8m · £2 · every ~16 min
407 · 13m · £3
Harlow Mill train station facilities and services
Harlow Mill has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Lost and Found Office, Bike Parking and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Harlow Mill.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Harlow Mill.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Harlow Mill: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Harlow Mill: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Which Colchester station do trains from Harlow arrive at?
Trains from Harlow 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 · £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.
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 · £0.90 · every ~2 min
Bus54 · 7m · £0.90 · 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.
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.
Most popular train connections from Harlow
More options for your journey from Harlow to Colchester
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Colchester and Harlow
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