- Recommended
Chelmsford Museum
City museum in Oaklands House covering Chelmsford's archaeology, industry and local life. Good for a clear introduction to the area.
.png){kind=small}
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 Ilford to Chelmsford
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 20 Sept
Cheapest price on 20 Sept
£10
Average ticket price on 20 Sept
£10
Fastest journey on 20 Sept
50 m
Average journey duration on 20 Sept
51 m
Trains on 20 Sept
2
Distance
34 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Ilford to Chelmsford is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Ilford to Chelmsford will cost around £10 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £10.
Fast trains
To travel from Ilford to Chelmsford you need to make at least one change.
C38182+
P6723317:500h51Ilford station (IFD)18:41Chelmsford station (CHM)£101One-way1 change- C38147+P6695217:200h50Ilford station (IFD)18:10Chelmsford station (CHM)£101One-way1 change
- C38147+P6695217:200h50Ilford station (IFD)18:10Chelmsford station (CHM)£101One-way1 change
- C38182+P6723317:500h51Ilford station (IFD)18:41Chelmsford station (CHM)£101One-way1 change
Travel Information
Compare train for Ilford to Chelmsford
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Ilford to Chelmsford among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of £13 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 1h 4m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of £13, while a train costs an average of £13.
Distance: 34 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|
£13 Average Price Cheapest | £20 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 4m Average total duration Fastest 34m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 42m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Ilford to Chelmsford is a train with an average price of £13.
The fastest way to travel from Ilford to Chelmsford is by train with an average journey time of 34m.
Yes, you can take a train between Ilford and Chelmsford.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 8m faster (34m by train vs 42m by car) and roughly £7 cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls (£13 vs £20). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Compare prices and tickets Ilford to Chelmsford by train
Compare 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.
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
Fri
25 Sept
25 Sept
Sat
26 Sept
26 Sept
Why should you book Ilford to Chelmsford trains with Omio?
Elizabeth line as well as Greater Anglia or Elizabeth Line (TfL) offer trains services from Ilford to Chelmsford.
Omio is the only official third party seller for Elizabeth line tickets.
Why book with Omio vs Elizabeth line?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Elizabeth line, but also compare tickets for the likes of Greater Anglia or Elizabeth Line (TfL) to find the best option for your trip from Ilford to Chelmsford.
- 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.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Ilford to Chelmsford
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Ilford to Chelmsford run on average 4 times per day, taking around 34m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £6 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 00:19, the last at 23:52. The fastest train covers the 34 km distance in 40m.
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 34 km |
Average train duration 34m |
Cheapest ticket price £6 |
Trains per day 4 |
Fastest train 40m |
First train 0:19 |
Last train 23:52 |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 4 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
Train companies: Elizabeth line, Greater Anglia, Elizabeth Line (TfL) from Ilford to Chelmsford trainsElizabeth line, Greater Anglia, Elizabeth Line (TfL) trains will get you between Ilford and Chelmsford from £6. 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
1h 15m
Cheapest Greater Anglia Price
£10
Greater Anglia frequency
1 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
Elizabeth line
About
Tfl Rail is a railway service operated by Transport for London in the United Kingdom. It operates on the Great Western Main Line and the Heathrow branch of the London Underground. The service runs from Paddington in London to Reading, Maidenhead, Slough, and Heathrow Airport. It also serves the towns of Taplow, Burnham, Twyford, and Hayes & Harlington. All trains are air-conditioned and feature onboard Wi-Fi, power sockets, and digital information screens. Tfl Rail offers a range of ticket types, including single and return tickets, season tickets, and Oyster cards. Oyster cards are the most popular ticket type, allowing passengers to pay for their journey with a single card. The most popular routes for Tfl Rail are Paddington to Reading, Paddington to Maidenhead, and Paddington to Heathrow Airport. These routes offer frequent services and provide passengers with a convenient way to travel between London and the surrounding areas.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Elizabeth line Duration
40m
Cheapest Elizabeth line Price
£6
Luggage included
Standard luggage allowance included with ticket
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage storage areas in carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refunds available through TfL website or customer service
Refund
Full refund available for service cancellations
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
No dedicated dining car. Passengers can bring their own food and drinks
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Step-free access at most stations, wheelchair spaces on trains, priority seating
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be leashed. Guide dogs welcome
Quiet zone
Elizabeth Line (TfL)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Elizabeth Line (TfL) Duration
35m
Cheapest Elizabeth Line (TfL) Price
£19
Elizabeth Line (TfL) frequency
50 a day
Complete guide to Chelmsford
Things to do in Chelmsford
Discover the best of Chelmsford — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Chelmsford trip today.
- Recommended
Sandford Mill Museum
Museum on the historic radio works site exploring Marconi, wireless innovation and broadcasting. A strong choice for technology enthusiasts.
The Essex Regiment Museum
Railway museum at Chelmsford station with artefacts, signalling history and volunteer displays. Small but engaging for transport fans.
- Must visit
Hylands Estate
Large historic estate with landscaped parkland, lakes, woods and gardens. Ideal for long walks, events and a classic Chelmsford day out.
- Recommended
Central Park
Popular city-centre park with riverside paths, flower beds and open lawns. A convenient place for a gentle walk near shops and museums.
- Recommended
Writtle Green
Attractive village green lined with historic buildings and a duck pond. A relaxed local favourite for a short stroll just west of the city.
Saffron Walden Sausage
A traditional pork sausage from nearby Saffron Walden, flavoured with sage and pepper. It is a classic Essex butcher’s sausage often served with mash or in breakfasts.
- Vegetarian
Essex Apple Tart
An old Essex apple tart made with local cooking apples, sugar and pastry. It reflects the county’s orchard heritage and is a familiar regional pudding.
- Gluten-free
Essex White Cheese
A soft white cheese traditionally made in Essex from cow’s milk. It is mild, fresh and closely linked with the county’s farming and cheesemaking history.
Turquoise Kitchen
Popular independent Turkish restaurant serving charcoal grills, meze and warm hospitality in a stylish yet casual setting.
The County Kitchen
Smart contemporary restaurant in central Chelmsford serving modern British dishes with polished service in a relaxed city setting.
Pontlands Park Restaurant
Refined hotel dining room at Pontlands Park with seasonal British cooking and a traditional country house atmosphere.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for England: hotels and dining are cheaper than London, but rail fares and central stays can still raise daily visitor costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service may be included in restaurants; otherwise tip around 10%. Taxis often round up or add 10%. Tipping in cafés is optional.
First Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- >= £2.00
- Day pass
- >= £2.00
To the city centre
Chelmsford Railway Station -> Chelmsford Bus Station
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Use The First Bus app for tickets and journey planning in Chelmsford. Buy before boarding where possible.
- Chelmsford Park and Ride route 701 serves Parkway, Victoria Road South, Duke Street for Chelmsford Railway Station, and High Chelmer in the city centre.
FAQs: Ilford to Chelmsford train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Ilford to Chelmsford 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 Chelmsford, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Ilford to Chelmsford can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £6, while the average price tends to be around £13.
The train journey from Ilford to Chelmsford covers a distance of 34 km and takes approximately 40m. Trains run 4 per day.
The train distance from Ilford to Chelmsford is 34 km.
The first train from Ilford to Chelmsford leaves at 0:19.
The last train from Ilford to Chelmsford departs at 23:52.
Trains from Ilford to Chelmsford run approximately 4 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Ilford to Chelmsford.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Ilford to Chelmsford.
To travel from Ilford to Chelmsford, you can take a train.
There is no night train service from Ilford to Chelmsford.
The train station in Ilford that goes to Chelmsford is Ilford station (IFD), and it arrives at Chelmsford station (CHM).
The cheapest way to get from Ilford to Chelmsford is by train, costing approximately £6.
Booking trains from Ilford to Chelmsford in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Ilford to Chelmsford offers views of urban landscapes transitioning into the greener outskirts of Essex, but it is not typically considered a particularly scenic route.
Yes, a day trip from Ilford to Chelmsford is feasible. The journey takes 40m and covers a distance of 34 km. There are 3 trains per day.
To explore Chelmsford's main attractions, including its parks, historical sites, and shopping areas, two to three days are usually sufficient.
Yes, you can take the train from Ilford to Chelmsford.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Ilford and Chelmsford
Most Ilford to Chelmsford trains use the Ilford to Chelmsford station pair. Use this guide to compare Ilford and Chelmsford train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Ilford
Arrival train stations in Chelmsford
Which Ilford station do trains to Chelmsford leave from?
Trains from Ilford to Chelmsford leave from Ilford. The station is from Ilford city centre at Ilford station, Ilford Hill, Ilford, Greater London, IG1 2DG.
IlfordIlford station, Ilford Hill, Ilford, Greater London, IG1 2DG
City-centre transport
Getting to Ilford from Ilford city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesRail replacement bus services will depart from: High Road, Bus Stop L, for Westbound services Ilford Hill, Bus Stop F, for Eastbound services Click here for map
Ilford train station facilities and services
Ilford has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Ilford.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Ilford. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0343 222 1234, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Ilford: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Ilford: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Ilford: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Accessibility Category C. This station does not have step-free access. Staff ramp assistance is always available. Accessible seating is available on platforms 3&4, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Accessible ticket machines are located At the York Mews station entrance At the Ilford Hill temporary station entrance At the Ilford south station entrance, Accessible toilets: No, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Staff are available to assist from the first to last train, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Which Chelmsford station do trains from Ilford arrive at?
Trains from Ilford to Chelmsford arrive at Chelmsford. Chelmsford is from Chelmsford city centre.
ChelmsfordChelmsford station, Duke Street, Chelmsford, Essex, CM1 1HT+44 8450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Chelmsford from Chelmsford city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesReplacement transport stop at the bus stop on Victoria Road by station entrance
Chelmsford train station facilities and services
Chelmsford has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Chelmsford.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Chelmsford. ATMs are available at Chelmsford.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Chelmsford.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Chelmsford: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Chelmsford: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Chelmsford: 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.
Most popular train connections from Ilford
More options for your journey from Ilford to Chelmsford
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Chelmsford and Ilford
Most popular train connections to Chelmsford
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.
