Luton to Chelmsford train with Thameslink

Thu 15 Oct
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Thameslink
Greater Anglia
East Midlands Railway
Tube
Avanti West Coast
2,000+ travel companies
Thameslink
Greater Anglia
East Midlands Railway
Tube
Avanti West Coast
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Luton to Chelmsford

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 15 Oct

Cheapest price on 15 Oct

£26

Average ticket price on 15 Oct

£35

Fastest journey on 15 Oct

1 h 37 m

Average journey duration on 15 Oct

1 h 40 m

Trains on 15 Oct

4

Distance

63 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Luton to Chelmsford is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Luton to Chelmsford will cost around £35 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £26.

Fast trains

On Thu 15 Oct, we found 4 trains from Luton to Chelmsford, including 4 direct services.

These direct trains cover the 63 km distance in an average of 1 h 40 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 37 m .

The slowest trains will take 1 h 47 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.

  • Thameslink
    9:291h39
    Luton
    11:08Chelmsford
    £261One-way
    0 changes
  • Thameslink
    6:521h37
    Luton
    8:29Chelmsford
    £381One-way
    0 changes
  • Thameslink
    9:131h38
    Luton
    10:51Chelmsford
    £381One-way
    0 changes
  • Thameslink
    4:081h47
    Luton
    5:55Chelmsford
    £391One-way
    0 changes

Journey information

Overview: Train from Luton to Chelmsford

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Luton to Chelmsford run on average 8 times per day, taking around 1h 18m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £24 if you book in advance.

The earliest train runs at 02:41, the last at 23:23. The fastest train covers the 63 km distance in 58m.

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
63 km
Average train duration
1h 18m
Cheapest ticket price
£24
Trains per day
8
Fastest train
58m
First train
2:41
Last train
23:23
Cheapest Month
Apr
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Jul - Sept
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Wed
Best time to book
3 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

Luton to Chelmsford train times

The table below shows live departures for Luton to Chelmsford trains for tomorrow, Thursday 15 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
Thameslink4:08 Luton
1h47
5:55 Chelmsford0 changesdirect
Thameslink6:52 Luton
1h37
8:29 Chelmsford0 changesdirect
Thameslink9:13 Luton
1h38
10:51 Chelmsford0 changesdirect
Thameslink9:29 Luton
1h39
11:08 Chelmsford0 changesdirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Luton to Chelmsford trains with Omio?

Thameslink as well as Greater Anglia, East Midlands Railway, Tube and more offer trains services from Luton to Chelmsford.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Luton to Chelmsford.

Why book with Omio vs Thameslink?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Thameslink, but also compare tickets for the likes of Greater Anglia, East Midlands Railway or Tube to find the best option for your trip from Luton 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.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu, Rome2rio or Trainline?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Greater Anglia, East Midlands Railway or Tube to find the best option for your trip from Luton to Chelmsford.

Train companies: Thameslink, Greater Anglia, East Midlands Railway, Tube from Luton to Chelmsford trainsThameslink, Greater Anglia, East Midlands Railway, Tube trains will get you between Luton and Chelmsford from £24. 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 9m
Cheapest Greater Anglia Price
£27
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

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
58m
Cheapest East Midlands Railway Price
£27
East Midlands Railway frequency
2 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

Thameslink

About
Thameslink is a train service that operates in the United Kingdom. It is operated by Govia Thameslink Railway and serves the counties of Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire, London, and Surrey. The trains run from early morning until late at night, with some services running 24 hours a day. There are a variety of train types available, including Class 700 Desiro City, Class 377 Electrostar, Class 387/1 Electrostar, and Class 319/0. Ticket types include Anytime, Off-Peak, Super Off-Peak, and Advance. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, and air conditioning. The most popular routes for Thameslink are London to Brighton, London to Bedford, and London to Luton.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Thameslink Duration
1h 11m
Cheapest Thameslink Price
£24
Thameslink frequency
6 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund available if service is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on some routes offering drinks and snacks
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets free of charge. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone

Tube

About
The \Tube\" refers to the London Underground, a rapid transit system serving Greater London and parts of the adjacent home counties. It is operated by London Underground Limited (LUL), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Transport for London (TfL). Opened in 1863, it was the world's first underground passenger railway. The network, nicknamed \"the Tube\" due to its circular, deep-level tunnels, has 11 lines and 270 stations, covering approximately 250 miles. It carries over a billion passengers annually and is known for its iconic roundel symbol and schematic map."
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Tube Duration
1h 30m
Cheapest Tube Price
£25
Tube frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
You can take as much luggage as you can comfortably carry, as long as it's under two meters long and fits within the space beneath your feet or between your legs while seated.
Luggage storage
There are no luggage racks on the Tube, so you'll technically be taking up the space of an actual person with your luggage.
Cancellation Policy
If your Tube journey was delayed by 15 minutes or more for reasons within TfL's control, you can claim a refund for the single pay as you go fare for the delayed journey.
Refund
If your Tube journey is delayed by 15 minutes or more due to reasons within TfL's control, you are entitled to a refund of the single fare for the affected journey.
Amenities on board the train
Food sold onboard
Food is allowed on the Tube, but alcoholic drinks are banned on all TfL services.
USB plugs
Accessibility
Currently 93 Tube stations (more than a third of them) have step-free access, and all DLR stations and tram stops are step-free.
Pets
Dogs and other domestic animals are allowed on the London Underground as long as they are under control, on a leash or in a carrier, and not on the seats.

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

Chelmsford Museum

City museum in Oaklands House covering Chelmsford's archaeology, industry and local life. Good for a clear introduction to the area.

  • 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.

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.

Best day trips from Chelmsford by train

The most popular day trips by train from Chelmsford are London, Colchester, Southend-on-Sea, Ipswich and Norwich. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your train from Chelmsford on Omio.

A view of London

Day trip from Chelmsford to London by train

Why visit London for the day?

London blends royal history with modern city life, known for its museums, theatre and global food scene. Along the Thames, grand landmarks sit beside diverse neighbourhoods shaped by finance, fashion and contemporary culture.

How to get from Chelmsford to London by train?

There are 8 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 48 km distance in 29m.

A view of Colchester

Day trip from Chelmsford to Colchester by train

Why visit Colchester for the day?

Colchester is an Essex city known as Britain’s oldest recorded town, with Roman roots and a prominent castle. Its historic core, modern cultural venues and easy-going atmosphere make it well suited to a relaxed visit.

How to get from Chelmsford to Colchester by train?

There are 14 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:11, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 34 km distance in 18m.

A view of Southend-on-Sea

Day trip from Chelmsford to Southend-on-Sea by train

Why visit Southend-on-Sea for the day?

Southend-on-Sea is an Essex seaside city best known for its long pleasure pier and traditional seafront atmosphere. Amusements, beaches and estuary views give it the feel of a classic British day out.

How to get from Chelmsford to Southend-on-Sea by train?

The earliest train runs at 05:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 28 km distance in 44m.

A view of Ipswich

Day trip from Chelmsford to Ipswich by train

Why visit Ipswich for the day?

Ipswich is one of England’s oldest towns, known for its waterfront and maritime past. Its medieval streets, parks and Suffolk atmosphere make it feel historic yet lived-in.

How to get from Chelmsford to Ipswich by train?

There are 7 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:56. The fastest train covers the 59 km distance in 37m.

A view of Norwich

Day trip from Chelmsford to Norwich by train

Why visit Norwich for the day?

Norwich is known for its Norman cathedral, medieval lanes and strong independent character. Its historic market, literary links and mix of old churches and creative spaces give it a lively but relaxed feel.

How to get from Chelmsford to Norwich by train?

There are 5 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:02, the last at 23:54. The fastest train covers the 114 km distance in 1h 15m.

FAQs: Luton to Chelmsford train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Luton 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.

FAQs
The cost of a train ticket from Luton to Chelmsford can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £24, while the average price tends to be around £29.
The train journey from Luton to Chelmsford covers a distance of 63 km and takes approximately 58m. Trains run 8 per day.
The train distance from Luton to Chelmsford is 63 km.
The first train from Luton to Chelmsford leaves at 2:41.
The last train from Luton to Chelmsford departs at 23:23.
Trains from Luton to Chelmsford run approximately 8 times per day.
Yes, there is a high-speed train service from Luton to Chelmsford.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Luton to Chelmsford.
There is no night train service from Luton to Chelmsford.
The train station in Luton that goes to Chelmsford is London Luton Airport (LUA), and it arrives at Chelmsford station (CHM).
Booking trains from Luton 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 Luton to Chelmsford is primarily suburban, passing through urban areas and countryside, offering some pleasant views but is not typically considered a particularly scenic route.
Yes, you can take the train from Luton to Chelmsford.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Luton and Chelmsford

Most Luton to Chelmsford trains use the London Luton Airport to Chelmsford station pair. Use this guide to compare Luton and Chelmsford train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Luton
Arrival train stations in Chelmsford

Which Luton station do trains to Chelmsford leave from?

Trains from Luton to Chelmsford leave from London Luton Airport. The station is 3 km from Luton city centre at Airport Way, Luton, LU2 9LY, United Kingdom.
LutonLuton station, Station Road, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU1 2LTWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Luton from Luton city centre

Bus17 · 7m · £2 · every ~2 min

Luton train station facilities and services

Luton has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Car Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Luton.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Luton. ATMs are available at Luton.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Luton.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Luton: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Luton: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Luton: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category B3 station: Step free access via lift to platform 5 only (some trains to Bedford/ the East Midlands) only. Steps to all other platforms. Assistance Meeting Point is the Ticket Office. This station doesn't have tactile surfaces along all platform edges. Please pay attention to where the platform surface changes from smooth to paved or contact us for assistance, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All Thameslink ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. Ticket machines are of an accessible design, however their location and the station itself may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Wheelchairs may only be available when the station is staffed, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.

Luton Airport ParkwayLuton Airport Parkway station, Parkway Road, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU1 3JWWifiShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Luton Airport Parkway from Luton city centre

Luton Airport Parkway is 1 km from Luton city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainCorby - London St Pancras International, Sheffield - London St Pancras International, Nottingham - London St Pancras International, Kettering - London St Pancras International, Wellingborough - London St Pancras International, East Midlands Parkway - London St Pancras International · 2m · £1 · every ~4 min
BusX4, X1, X2, Z, A, X3 · 5m · £4 · every ~41 min
612, X10 · 5m · £1 · every ~2 min
44, 45, 366 · 6m · £2 · every ~2 min
101, 100 · 10m · £4 · every ~7 min

Luton Airport Parkway train station facilities and services

Luton Airport Parkway has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Car Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Luton Airport Parkway.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Luton Airport Parkway. ATMs are available at Luton Airport Parkway.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Luton Airport Parkway.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Luton Airport Parkway: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Luton Airport Parkway: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Luton Airport Parkway: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category A station: This station has step-free level access to all platforms via lifts. Assistance Meeting Point is the Ticket Office, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All Thameslink ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. Ticket machines are of an accessible design, however their location and the station itself may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Wheelchairs may only be available when the station is staffed, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.

More options for your journey from Luton to Chelmsford

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

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