- 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
The cheapest and fastest trains from Nottingham to Colchester
Showing times and prices for 09 Aug
Cheapest price
£71
Average price
£81
Fastest journey
4 h 40 m
Average duration
4 h 45 m
Trains per day
2
Distance
183 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Nottingham to Colchester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Nottingham to Colchester will cost around £81 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £71.
Fast trains
Of the 2 trains that leave Nottingham for Colchester every day 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 183 km distance in an average of 4 h 45 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 40 m .
The slowest trains will take 4 h 49 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.
9:154h49Nottingham14:04Colchester£711One-way0 changes
9:194h40Nottingham13:59Colchester£921One-way0 changes
- 9:194h40Nottingham13:59Colchester£921One-way0 changes
- 9:154h49Nottingham14:04Colchester£711One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare coach and train for Nottingham to Colchester
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Nottingham to Colchester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £32. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 51m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £32, and a train costs an average of £43.
Distance: 183 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
£76 Average Price | £50 Average Price Cheapest |
3h 21m Average total duration Fastest 2h 51m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 16m Average total duration 5h 46m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Nottingham to Colchester train times
The table below shows live departures for Nottingham to Colchester trains for tomorrow, Sunday 9 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9:15 Nottingham | 4h49 | 14:04 Colchester | 0 changesdirect | |
| 9:19 Nottingham | 4h40 | 13:59 Colchester | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Nottingham to Colchester by coach or train
Compare coach and 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
09 Aug
09 Aug
Mon
10 Aug
10 Aug
Tue
11 Aug
11 Aug
Wed
12 Aug
12 Aug
Thu
13 Aug
13 Aug
Fri
14 Aug
14 Aug
Sat
15 Aug
15 Aug
Why should you book Nottingham to Colchester trains with Omio?
East Midlands Railway operates all trains services from Nottingham to Colchester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Nottingham to Colchester.
Why book with Omio vs East Midlands Railway?
- 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 East Midlands Railway with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Nottingham to Colchester.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Rome2rio?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Nottingham to Colchester.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Nottingham to Colchester
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Nottingham to Colchester run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 51m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £43 but you can travel from only £32 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 04:41, the last at 22:00. The fastest train covers the 183 km distance in 3h 22m.
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 £32
Distance 183 km |
Average train duration 2h 51m |
Cheapest ticket price £43 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 3h 22m |
First train 4:41 |
Last train 22:00 |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Best time to book 1 day |
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 £32
Train companies: East Midlands Railway from Nottingham to Colchester trainsEast Midlands Railway trains will get you between Nottingham and Colchester from £32. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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 Duration
3h 22m
Cheapest Price
£43
East Midlands Railway frequency
6 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: Nottingham to Colchester train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Nottingham 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 Nottingham to Colchester can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £43, while the average price tends to be around £76.
The train journey from Nottingham to Colchester covers a distance of 183 km and takes approximately 3h 22m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Nottingham to Colchester is 183 km.
The first train from Nottingham to Colchester leaves at 4:41.
The last train from Nottingham to Colchester departs at 22:00.
Trains from Nottingham to Colchester run approximately 6 times per day.
Yes, there is a high-speed train service from Nottingham to Colchester.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Nottingham to Colchester.
To get from Nottingham to Colchester, you can choose from several travel options including coach and train.
There is no night train service from Nottingham to Colchester.
The train station in Nottingham that goes to Colchester is Nottingham station (NOT), and it arrives at Colchester station (COL).
The cheapest way to get from Nottingham to Colchester is by coach, costing approximately £32.
Booking trains from Nottingham 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 Nottingham to Colchester offers varied scenery, including picturesque countryside, charming villages, and glimpses of urban landscapes, providing a pleasant travel experience.
A day trip from Nottingham to Colchester is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 22m and there are 6 train services per day covering a distance of 183 km.
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 Nottingham to Colchester.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Nottingham and Colchester
Most Nottingham to Colchester trains use the Nottingham to Colchester station pair, with some services arriving at Hythe (Essex). Use this guide to compare Nottingham and Colchester train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Nottingham
Arrival train stations in Colchester
Which Nottingham station do trains to Colchester leave from?
Trains from Nottingham to Colchester leave from Nottingham. The station is 1 km from Nottingham city centre at Nottingham station, Carrington Street, Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, NG2 3AQ.
NottinghamNottingham station, Carrington Street, Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, NG2 3AQ+44 800 200 6060
City-centre transport
Getting to Nottingham from Nottingham city centre
Bus9B, 8, 11, 6, 10, 9, 11C, 10C, 10X, 7, 5, 5A, 11B, 12, 12C, 12E, 10A · 3m · every ~58 min
48, 1, 3, 48X, 1A, 48A, 3A, N4, 1B, 1E · 4m · every ~24 min
Kc · 5m · £4 · every ~12 min
20 · 10m
TramTram · 4m · £4 · every ~58 min
Nottingham train station facilities and services
Nottingham has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Nottingham.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Nottingham.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Nottingham. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 08000 11 33 23, 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 Nottingham: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Nottingham: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Nottingham: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a category A access station. There are lifts available to all platforms and there is level and ramp access to the concourse and ticket office/machines. This station has tactile paving at the edge of each platform, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible public telephones: none, Accessible taxis: Taxi number displayed on useful information poster at 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 Nottingham arrive at?
Trains from Nottingham 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 Nottingham
More options for your journey from Nottingham to Colchester
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Colchester and Nottingham
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.
