- 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 Poole to Colchester
Showing times and prices for 21 Aug
Cheapest price
£55
Average price
£67
Fastest journey
4 h
Average duration
4 h 7 m
Trains per day
11
Distance
240 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Poole to Colchester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Poole to Colchester will cost around £67 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £55.
Fast trains
To travel from Poole to Colchester you need to make at least 2 changes.
L80347_L78756+
Tube from London Waterloo to Stratford (London)+
P669427:054h08Poole station (POO)11:13Colchester station (COL)£551One-way2 changes- L78764+C04651+Tube from London Waterloo to Stratford (London)7:594h15Poole station (POO)12:14Colchester station (COL)£631One-way2 changes
- L80341_L78871+Tube from London Waterloo to Stratford (London)+P010796:344h03Poole station (POO)10:37Colchester station (COL)£631One-way2 changes
- L80363_L80064+Tube from London Waterloo to Stratford (London)+P013418:364h28Poole station (POO)13:04Colchester station (COL)£631One-way2 changes
- L80355_L78760+C04675+Tube from London Waterloo to Stratford (London)7:364h28Poole station (POO)12:04Colchester station (COL)£631One-way2 changes
- L80068+Tube from London Waterloo to Stratford (London)+P010879:374h00Poole station (POO)13:37Colchester station (COL)£631One-way2 changes
- L80341_L78871+Tube from London Waterloo to Stratford (London)+P010796:344h03Poole station (POO)10:37Colchester station (COL)£631One-way2 changes
- L80347_L78756+Tube from London Waterloo to Stratford (London)+P669427:054h08Poole station (POO)11:13Colchester station (COL)£551One-way2 changes
- L80195+P66950+Tube from London Waterloo to Stratford (London)9:024h11Poole station (POO)13:13Colchester station (COL)£631One-way2 changes
- L80201+Tube from London Waterloo to Stratford (London)+C0465410:024h11Poole station (POO)14:13Colchester station (COL)£631One-way2 changes
Live departures
Poole to Colchester train times
The table below shows live departures for Poole to Colchester trains for tomorrow, Friday 21 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| L80341_L78871+P01079+Tube from London Waterloo to Stratford (London) | 6:34 Poole station (POO) | 4h03 | 10:37 Colchester station (COL) | 2 changes | |
| L80347_L78756+Tube from London Waterloo to Stratford (London)+P66942 | 7:05 Poole station (POO) | 4h08 | 11:13 Colchester station (COL) | 2 changes | |
| L80355_L78760+C04675+Tube from London Waterloo to Stratford (London) | 7:36 Poole station (POO) | 4h28 | 12:04 Colchester station (COL) | 2 changes | |
| L78764+C04651+Tube from London Waterloo to Stratford (London) | 7:59 Poole station (POO) | 4h15 | 12:14 Colchester station (COL) | 2 changes | |
L80064+ G00858+P01245+ C37893 | 8:05 Poole station (POO) | 4h12 | 12:17 Colchester station (COL) | 4 changes | |
| L80363_L80064+Tube from London Waterloo to Stratford (London)+P01341 | 8:36 Poole station (POO) | 4h28 | 13:04 Colchester station (COL) | 2 changes | |
| L80195+Tube from London Waterloo to Stratford (London)+P66950 | 9:02 Poole station (POO) | 4h11 | 13:13 Colchester station (COL) | 2 changes | |
| L80068+Tube from London Waterloo to Stratford (London)+P01087 | 9:37 Poole station (POO) | 4h00 | 13:37 Colchester station (COL) | 2 changes | |
| L80201+C04654+Tube from London Waterloo to Stratford (London) | 10:02 Poole station (POO) | 4h11 | 14:13 Colchester station (COL) | 2 changes | |
| L80073+Tube from London Waterloo to Stratford (London)+C04681 | 10:36 Poole station (POO) | 4h28 | 15:04 Colchester station (COL) | 2 changes | |
| L80207+Tube from London Waterloo to Stratford (London)+C04657 | 11:02 Poole station (POO) | 4h12 | 15:14 Colchester station (COL) | 2 changes | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Poole to Colchester by coach
Compare coach 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.
Fri
21 Aug
21 Aug
Sat
22 Aug
22 Aug
Sun
23 Aug
23 Aug
Mon
24 Aug
24 Aug
Tue
25 Aug
25 Aug
Wed
26 Aug
26 Aug
Thu
27 Aug
27 Aug
Why should you book Poole to Colchester trains with Omio?
South Western Railway operates all trains services from Poole to Colchester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Poole to Colchester.
Why book with Omio vs South Western 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.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Poole to Colchester
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Take a train from Poole to Colchester and enjoy the approximately 240 km long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest train runs at 04:41, the last at 20:33.
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 £70
Distance 240 km |
Average train duration 3h 36m |
Trains per day 6 |
First train 4:41 |
Last train 20:33 |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 14 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from £70
Train companies: South Western Railway from Poole to Colchester trainsSouth Western Railway trains will get you between Poole and Colchester from £70. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
South Western Railway
About
South Western Railway is a train operating company in the United Kingdom, providing services in the south and south-west of England. It operates a variety of train types, including high-speed trains, local stopping services, and suburban commuter trains. It also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Off-Peak, and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for South Western Railway include London Waterloo to Portsmouth Harbour, London Waterloo to Weymouth, and London Waterloo to Bournemouth.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 13m
Cheapest Price
£36
South Western Railway frequency
6 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund depends on ticket type and timing of cancellation
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar service with hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee, free for some ticket types
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free, dogs must be on lead
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: Poole to Colchester train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Poole 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 train distance from Poole to Colchester is 240 km.
The first train from Poole to Colchester leaves at 4:41.
The last train from Poole to Colchester departs at 20:33.
Trains from Poole to Colchester run approximately 6 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Poole to Colchester.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Poole to Colchester.
To travel from Poole to Colchester, you can take a coach.
There is no night train service from Poole to Colchester.
The train station in Poole that goes to Colchester is Poole station (POO), and it arrives at Colchester station (COL).
The cheapest way to get from Poole to Colchester is by coach, costing approximately £70.
Booking trains from Poole 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 Poole to Colchester offers varied scenery, including views of the Dorset countryside, the South Downs, and glimpses of the Essex countryside, making it a pleasant and moderately scenic route.
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 Poole to Colchester.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Poole and Colchester
Most Poole to Colchester trains use the Poole to Colchester station pair, with some services arriving at Colchester Town. Use this guide to compare Poole and Colchester train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Poole
Arrival train stations in Colchester
Which Poole station do trains to Colchester leave from?
Trains from Poole to Colchester leave from Poole. The station is 1 km from Poole city centre at Poole station, Serpentine Road, Poole, Dorset, BH15 2BQ.
PoolePoole station, Serpentine Road, Poole, Dorset, BH15 2BQ
City-centre transport
Getting to Poole from Poole city centre
Poole is 1 km from Poole city centre. Public transport options include:
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesStation forecourt, off Serpentine Road
Poole train station facilities and services
Poole has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Poole.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Poole. ATMs are available at Poole.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Poole.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Poole: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Poole: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Poole: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step-free category B Station - There is level access to both sides of the station by ramps. Interchange between platforms is via a ramped underpass at the London end of the platforms. Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All South Western Railway ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. All machines are accessible, however the station may not be so please check the station access note for further details, 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 Poole arrive at?
Trains from Poole 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 · £0.90 · 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.
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.
More options for your journey from Poole to Colchester
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Colchester and Poole
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.
