- Must visit
Colchester Castle Museum
Main city museum inside the castle, covering Roman Colchester, local archaeology and later history in a dramatic historic setting.
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
Journey information
Overview: Train from Lincoln to Colchester
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Lincoln to Colchester run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 4m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £36 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 04:41, the last at 20:30. The fastest train covers the 178 km distance in 2h 53m.
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 178 km |
Average train duration 3h 4m |
Cheapest ticket price £36 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 2h 53m |
First train 4:41 |
Last train 20:30 |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Best time to book 2 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
Live departures
Lincoln to Colchester train times
The table below shows live departures for Lincoln to Colchester trains for today, Monday 5 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 C59601+ P01771 · P01261 | 8:02 Lincoln Central (LCN) | 3h57 | 11:59 Colchester station (COL) | 2 changes | |
 G08044+ Tube from London Kings Cross to London Liverpool Street+P01250 | 9:20 Lincoln Central (LCN) | 3h26 | 12:46 Colchester station (COL) | 2 changes | |
| C59608+P01774 · P01279 | 10:19 Lincoln Central (LCN) | 3h40 | 13:59 Colchester station (COL) | 2 changes | |
| C59608+P01263+L01628+Tube from London Kings Cross to London Liverpool Street | 10:19 Lincoln Central (LCN) | 3h57 | 14:16 Colchester station (COL) | 3 changes | |
| G08050+Tube from London Kings Cross to London Liverpool Street+P01268 | 11:20 Lincoln Central (LCN) | 3h26 | 14:46 Colchester station (COL) | 2 changes | |
| C59617+P01777 · P67125 | 12:19 Lincoln Central (LCN) | 3h42 | 16:01 Colchester station (COL) | 2 changes | |
| C59617+P01280+L01631+Tube from London Kings Cross to London Liverpool Street | 12:19 Lincoln Central (LCN) | 3h57 | 16:16 Colchester station (COL) | 3 changes | |
| G08055+Tube from London Kings Cross to London Liverpool Street+P01285 | 13:20 Lincoln Central (LCN) | 3h25 | 16:45 Colchester station (COL) | 2 changes | |
| G08055+Tube from London Kings Cross to Stratford (London)+P66980 | 13:20 Lincoln Central (LCN) | 3h51 | 17:11 Colchester station (COL) | 2 changes | |
| G08055+Tube from London Kings Cross to London Liverpool Street+P66980_P01602 | 13:20 Lincoln Central (LCN) | 4h13 | 17:33 Colchester Town (CET) | 2 changes | |
C21329+C02120+P67275+ C37976 | 13:42 Lincoln Central (LCN) | 4h16 | 17:58 Colchester station (COL) | 4 changes | |
| C59625+P01780 · P67143 | 14:19 Lincoln Central (LCN) | 3h40 | 17:59 Colchester station (COL) | 2 changes | |
| C59625+P01110+C01918+Tube from London Kings Cross to Stratford (London) | 14:19 Lincoln Central (LCN) | 4h14 | 18:33 Colchester station (COL) | 3 changes | |
| G08061+Tube from London Kings Cross to Stratford (London)+P66993 | 15:20 Lincoln Central (LCN) | 3h55 | 19:15 Colchester station (COL) | 2 changes | |
| G08061+Tube from London Kings Cross to London Liverpool Street+P01304 | 15:20 Lincoln Central (LCN) | 3h29 | 18:49 Colchester station (COL) | 2 changes | |
| G08061+Tube from London Kings Cross to London Liverpool Street+P01116 | 15:20 Lincoln Central (LCN) | 4h31 | 19:51 Colchester Town (CET) | 2 changes | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Lincoln to Colchester trains with Omio?
East Midlands Railway as well as London North Eastern Railway or Greater Anglia offer trains services from Lincoln to Colchester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Lincoln to Colchester.
Why book with Omio vs East Midlands Railway?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for East Midlands Railway, but also compare tickets for the likes of London North Eastern Railway or Greater Anglia to find the best option for your trip from Lincoln 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.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Rome2rio?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of London North Eastern Railway or Greater Anglia to find the best option for your trip from Lincoln to Colchester.
Train companies: Greater Anglia, London North Eastern Railway, East Midlands Railway from Lincoln to Colchester trainsGreater Anglia, London North Eastern Railway, East Midlands Railway trains will get you between Lincoln and Colchester from £36. 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
3h 5m
Cheapest Greater Anglia Price
£36
Greater Anglia frequency
3 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
London North Eastern Railway
About
LNER is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from high-speed intercity trains to local services. Its most popular routes include London to Edinburgh, London to Leeds, and London to York. LNER offers a variety of train types, including the Azuma, InterCity 225, and HST. The Azuma is a modern, high-speed train that offers comfortable seating and onboard Wi-Fi. The InterCity 225 is a classic train that offers a more traditional experience. The HST is a high-speed train that offers a smooth ride and plenty of legroom. LNER offers a variety of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak. Advance tickets are the cheapest option and must be booked in advance. Anytime tickets are more expensive but can be used at any time. Off-Peak tickets are the most affordable option for travelling during off-peak times. Onboard facilities include comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. LNER also offers a range of discounts and special offers, making it an affordable and convenient way to travel.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average London North Eastern Railway Duration
2h 53m
Cheapest London North Eastern Railway Price
£65
London North Eastern Railway frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund available if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First Class passengers receive complimentary refreshments
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are included with Advance tickets. Optional for other ticket types at £0-£2 per person depending on route
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two pets per passenger
Quiet zone
East Midlands Railway
About
East Midlands Trains is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London to the East Midlands, Yorkshire, and the North West. East Midlands Trains operates a fleet of Class 158, Class 156, Class 170, Class 222 and Class 180 diesel multiple units, as well as Class 222 Meridian electric multiple units. East Midlands Trains also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for East Midlands Trains are London to Nottingham, Sheffield, and Leeds.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average East Midlands Railway Duration
3h 2m
Cheapest East Midlands Railway Price
£59
East Midlands Railway frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 piece of hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee. Free for Advance ticket holders
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs must be on lead and require a ticket (£6 for day ticket)
Quiet zone
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: Lincoln to Colchester train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Lincoln 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 Lincoln to Colchester can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £36, while the average price tends to be around £50.
The train journey from Lincoln to Colchester covers a distance of 178 km and takes approximately 2h 53m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Lincoln to Colchester is 178 km.
The first train from Lincoln to Colchester leaves at 4:41.
The last train from Lincoln to Colchester departs at 20:30.
Trains from Lincoln to Colchester run approximately 6 times per day.
Yes, there is a high-speed train service from Lincoln to Colchester.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Lincoln to Colchester.
There is no night train service from Lincoln to Colchester.
The train station in Lincoln that goes to Colchester is Lincoln Central (LCN), and it arrives at Colchester station (COL).
Booking trains from Lincoln 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 Lincoln to Colchester offers varied scenery, including picturesque countryside, charming villages, and glimpses of historical towns, providing a pleasant visual experience.
Yes, you can take the train from Lincoln to Colchester.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Lincoln and Colchester
Most Lincoln to Colchester trains use the Lincoln Central to Colchester station pair, with some services arriving at Colchester Town. Use this guide to compare Lincoln and Colchester train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Lincoln
Arrival train stations in Colchester
Which Lincoln station do trains to Colchester leave from?
Trains from Lincoln to Colchester leave from Lincoln Central. The station is from Lincoln city centre at Lincoln station, St Marys Street, Lincoln, Lincolnshire, LN5 7EW.
Lincoln CentralLincoln station, St Marys Street, Lincoln, Lincolnshire, LN5 7EW
City-centre transport
Getting to Lincoln Central from Lincoln city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesOutside the front of the station.
Lincoln Central train station facilities and services
Lincoln Central has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Lincoln Central.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Lincoln Central.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Lincoln Central.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Lincoln Central: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Lincoln Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Lincoln Central: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A station. This station has step free access to all platforms. This station doesn't have tactile paving at the edges of the platforms, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible taxis: all cabs on station rank are wheelchair accessible, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Fastticket, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Which Colchester station do trains from Lincoln arrive at?
Trains from Lincoln to Colchester most often arrive at Colchester. Some services arrive at Colchester Town, 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 · £0.89 · 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 · £0.89 · 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 Lincoln
More options for your journey from Lincoln to Colchester
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Colchester and Lincoln
Most popular train connections to Colchester
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.
