- 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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Travel Information
Compare train for Market Harborough to Colchester
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Market Harborough to Colchester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of £82 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 38m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of £82, while a train costs an average of £82.
Distance: 141 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|
£82 Average Price Cheapest | £28 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 38m Average total duration Fastest 2h 8m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 12m 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 Market Harborough to Colchester is a train with an average price of £82.
The fastest way to travel from Market Harborough to Colchester is by train with an average journey time of 2h 8m.
Yes, you can take a train between Market Harborough and Colchester.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 4m sooner (2h 8m by train vs 2h 12m by car). Tickets start at around £82 compared to roughly £28 in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Why should you book Market Harborough to Colchester trains with Omio?
Greater Anglia as well as East Midlands Railway offer trains services from Market Harborough to Colchester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Market Harborough 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 East Midlands Railway to find the best option for your trip from Market Harborough 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 East Midlands Railway to find the best option for your trip from Market Harborough to Colchester.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Market Harborough to Colchester
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Take a train from Market Harborough to Colchester and enjoy the approximately 141 km long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest train runs at 04:41, the last at 18:00. The fastest train covers the 141 km distance in 2h 49m.
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 141 km |
Average train duration 2h 8m |
Cheapest ticket price £82 |
Fastest train 2h 49m |
First train 4:41 |
Last train 18:00 |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jul - Sept |
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: Greater Anglia, East Midlands Railway from Market Harborough to Colchester trainsGreater Anglia, East Midlands Railway trains will get you between Market Harborough and Colchester from £82. 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
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
2h 49m
Cheapest East Midlands Railway Price
£82
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: Market Harborough to Colchester train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Market Harborough 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 Market Harborough to Colchester can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £82, while the average price tends to be around £82.
The train journey from Market Harborough to Colchester covers a distance of 141 km and takes approximately 2h 49m. Trains run 0 per day.
The train distance from Market Harborough to Colchester is 141 km.
The first train from Market Harborough to Colchester leaves at 4:41.
The last train from Market Harborough to Colchester departs at 18:00.
Trains from Market Harborough to Colchester run approximately 0 times per day.
Yes, there is a high-speed train service from Market Harborough to Colchester.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Market Harborough to Colchester.
To travel from Market Harborough to Colchester, you can take a train.
There is no night train service from Market Harborough to Colchester.
The train station in Market Harborough that goes to Colchester is Market Harborough station (MHR), and it arrives at Colchester station (COL).
The cheapest way to get from Market Harborough to Colchester is by train, costing approximately £82.
Booking trains from Market Harborough 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 Market Harborough to Colchester offers a mix of scenic views, including the rolling countryside of Leicestershire and glimpses of the picturesque landscapes of Essex, although it primarily passes through urban and suburban areas.
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 Market Harborough to Colchester.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Market Harborough and Colchester
Most Market Harborough to Colchester trains use the Market Harborough to Colchester station pair. Use this guide to compare Market Harborough and Colchester train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Market Harborough
Arrival train stations in Colchester
Which Market Harborough station do trains to Colchester leave from?
Trains from Market Harborough to Colchester leave from Market Harborough. The station is 1 km from Market Harborough city centre at Market Harborough station, St Marys Road, Market Harborough, Leicestershire, LE16 7DT.
Market HarboroughMarket Harborough station, St Marys Road, Market Harborough, Leicestershire, LE16 7DT+44 3457125678
City-centre transport
Getting to Market Harborough from Market Harborough city centre
BusLc10, Hc2, Hc3 · 4m · £2 · every ~7 min
Market Harborough train station facilities and services
Market Harborough has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Market Harborough.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Market Harborough.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Market Harborough: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Market Harborough: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Market Harborough: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A station. Step free access is available to both platforms, via the ticket office for platform 1 or the new car park for platform 2. Please check which platform your train is due to depart from before arriving at the station. Services to the north, including Leicester, Nottingham, Sheffield and Derby normally depart from platform 1. Services to London and stations south of Market Harborough normally depart from platform 2. If you do need assistance to change platforms, we're happy to help. Please speak to a member of staff or use a Help Point in the station. This station has tactile paving at the edge of each platform, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, 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: Yes.
Which Colchester station do trains from Market Harborough arrive at?
Trains from Market Harborough to Colchester arrive at Colchester. Colchester is 2 km from Colchester city centre.
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.
Most popular train connections from Market Harborough
More options for your journey from Market Harborough to Colchester
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Colchester and Market Harborough
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