READING to COLCHESTER train from £66 with Greater Anglia

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Live departures

Reading to Colchester train times

The table below shows live departures for Reading to Colchester trains for today, Monday 3 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at

Provider	Departs	Duration	Arrives	Changes
	6:00 Reading	2h06	8:06 Colchester	3 changes
	6:14 Reading	1h32	7:46 Colchester	2 changes
	6:19 Reading	1h54	8:13 Colchester	2 changes
	6:34 Reading	1h43	8:17 Colchester	3 changes
	6:50 Reading	1h50	8:40 Colchester	2 changes
	7:15 Reading	1h50	9:05 Colchester	2 changes
	7:32 Reading	1h41	9:13 Colchester	2 changes
	7:35 Reading	2h04	9:39 Colchester	3 changes
	7:42 Reading	1h34	9:16 Colchester	2 changes
	8:10 Reading	1h36	9:46 Colchester	2 changes
	8:14 Reading	1h49	10:03 Colchester	2 changes
	8:30 Reading	1h43	10:13 Colchester	2 changes
	8:42 Reading	1h34	10:16 Colchester	2 changes
	8:58 Reading	2h05	11:03 Colchester	3 changes
	9:31 Reading	1h42	11:13 Colchester	2 changes
	9:45 Reading	1h35	11:20 Colchester	2 changes
	9:51 Reading	1h45	11:36 Colchester	2 changes
	10:12 Reading	1h51	12:03 Colchester	2 changes
	10:19 Reading	1h58	12:17 Colchester	3 changes
	10:27 Reading	1h47	12:14 Colchester	2 changes
	10:56 Reading	2h07	13:03 Colchester	3 changes
	11:09 Reading	1h37	12:46 Colchester	2 changes
	11:20 Reading	1h56	13:16 Colchester	3 changes
	11:28 Reading	1h45	13:13 Colchester	2 changes
	12:00 Reading	2h03	14:03 Colchester	3 changes
	12:12 Reading	1h34	13:46 Colchester	2 changes
	12:30 Reading	1h43	14:13 Colchester	2 changes
	12:35 Reading	2h02	14:37 Colchester	3 changes
	12:47 Reading	1h29	14:16 Colchester	2 changes
	13:02 Reading	2h01	15:03 Colchester	3 changes
	13:09 Reading	1h37	14:46 Colchester	2 changes
	13:26 Reading	1h48	15:14 Colchester	2 changes
	13:42 Reading	1h35	15:17 Colchester	3 changes
	14:04 Reading	1h59	16:03 Colchester	3 changes
	14:12 Reading	1h34	15:46 Colchester	2 changes
	14:29 Reading	1h44	16:13 Colchester	2 changes
	14:44 Reading	1h32	16:16 Colchester	2 changes
	14:50 Reading	1h48	16:38 Colchester	2 changes
	15:13 Reading	1h51	17:04 Colchester	2 changes
	15:20 Reading	1h51	17:11 Colchester	2 changes
	15:44 Reading	1h49	17:33 Colchester	3 changes
	15:46 Reading	1h31	17:17 Colchester	2 changes
	15:50 Reading	1h49	17:39 Colchester	2 changes
	16:01 Reading	1h57	17:58 Colchester	3 changes
	16:27 Reading	1h47	18:14 Colchester	2 changes
	16:35 Reading	2h02	18:37 Colchester	3 changes
	16:44 Reading	1h49	18:33 Colchester	3 changes
	16:47 Reading	1h32	18:19 Colchester	2 changes
This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Reading to Colchester by train

Compare 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.

Tue
04 Aug

Wed
05 Aug

Thu
06 Aug

Fri
07 Aug

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08 Aug

Sun
09 Aug

Mon
10 Aug

Why should you book Reading to Colchester trains with Omio?

Greater Anglia as well as Elizabeth line or Great Western Railway (GWR) offer trains services from Reading to Colchester.

Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Reading 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 Elizabeth line or Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from Reading 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.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Reading to Colchester

United Kingdom

Trains from Reading to Colchester run on average 9 times per day, taking around 1h 49m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £66 if you book in advance.

The earliest train runs at 04:41, the last at 23:02. The fastest train covers the 138 km distance in 2h 5m.

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

138 km

Average train duration

1h 49m

Cheapest ticket price

£66

Trains per day

Fastest train

2h 5m

First train

4:41

Last train

23:02

Cheapest Month

Feb

Cheapest Day

Fri

High Season

Apr - Jun

Low Season

Oct - Dec

Best time to book

28 days

Price information

Train companies: Greater Anglia, Elizabeth line, Great Western Railway (GWR) from Reading to Colchester trainsGreater Anglia, Elizabeth line, Great Western Railway (GWR) trains will get you between Reading and Colchester from £66. 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 Duration

2h 5m

Cheapest Price

£66

Greater Anglia frequency

6 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

Learn more about Greater Anglia

Elizabeth line

About

Tfl Rail is a railway service operated by Transport for London in the United Kingdom. It operates on the Great Western Main Line and the Heathrow branch of the London Underground. The service runs from Paddington in London to Reading, Maidenhead, Slough, and Heathrow Airport. It also serves the towns of Taplow, Burnham, Twyford, and Hayes & Harlington. All trains are air-conditioned and feature onboard Wi-Fi, power sockets, and digital information screens. Tfl Rail offers a range of ticket types, including single and return tickets, season tickets, and Oyster cards. Oyster cards are the most popular ticket type, allowing passengers to pay for their journey with a single card. The most popular routes for Tfl Rail are Paddington to Reading, Paddington to Maidenhead, and Paddington to Heathrow Airport. These routes offer frequent services and provide passengers with a convenient way to travel between London and the surrounding areas.

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average Duration

2h 24m

Cheapest Price

£65

Elizabeth line frequency

3 a day

Luggage included

Standard luggage allowance included with ticket

Luggage storage

Dedicated luggage storage areas in carriages

Cancellation Policy

Refunds available through TfL website or customer service

Refund

Full refund available for service cancellations

Amenities on board the train

Wifi

Food sold onboard

No dedicated dining car. Passengers can bring their own food and drinks

Toilets

USB plugs

Accessibility

Step-free access at most stations, wheelchair spaces on trains, priority seating

Pets

Small pets travel free. Dogs must be leashed. Guide dogs welcome

Quiet zone

Great Western Railway (GWR)

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average Duration

1h 29m

Cheapest Price

£66

Great Western Railway (GWR) frequency

50 a day

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.

Must visit

Colchester Castle Museum

Main city museum inside the castle, covering Roman Colchester, local archaeology and later history in a dramatic historic setting.

View on map Visit website

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.

View on map Visit website

Recommended

Hollytrees Museum

Museum charting the city’s social history, from everyday objects to changing local life, housed in a restored historic building.

View on map Visit website

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.

FAQs: Reading to Colchester train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Reading 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 Reading to Colchester can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £66, while the average price tends to be around £66.

The train journey from Reading to Colchester covers a distance of 138 km and takes approximately 2h 5m. Trains run 9 per day.

The train distance from Reading to Colchester is 138 km.

The first train from Reading to Colchester leaves at 4:41.

The last train from Reading to Colchester departs at 23:02.

Trains from Reading to Colchester run approximately 9 times per day.

Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Reading to Colchester.

Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Reading to Colchester.

To travel from Reading to Colchester, you can take a train.

There is no night train service from Reading to Colchester.

The train station in Reading that goes to Colchester is Reading station (RDG), and it arrives at Colchester station (COL).

The cheapest way to get from Reading to Colchester is by train, costing approximately £66.

Booking trains from Reading 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 Reading to Colchester offers a mix of urban and rural views, passing through picturesque countryside, charming villages, and bustling towns, which can be quite pleasant and scenic for passengers.

A day trip from Reading to Colchester is not feasible, as the journey takes 2h 5m and trains run 5 times per day.

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 Reading to Colchester.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Reading and Colchester

Most Reading to Colchester trains use the Reading to Colchester station pair, with some services arriving at Hythe (Essex). Use this guide to compare Reading and Colchester train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Reading

Arrival train stations in Colchester

Which Reading station do trains to Colchester leave from?

Trains from Reading to Colchester leave from Reading. The station is from Reading city centre at Reading station, Station Hill, Reading, Berkshire, RG1 1LZ.

ReadingReading station, Station Hill, Reading, Berkshire, RG1 1LZ+44 3451652030 Shopping

City-centre transport

Getting to Reading from Reading city centre

Bus26, 90, 87 · 2m · £2 · every ~15 min

Reading train station facilities and services

Reading has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental and Car Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Reading.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

ATMs are available at Reading.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Reading.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Reading: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Reading: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Reading: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: platforms can be reached via lift and bridge, ticket office is step free, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible public telephones: Accessible low-level Pay Phone is available at the station main concourse. Please request staff assistance if you need to, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxi are available at the station entrance. please request staff assistance if you need to, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Accessible ticket machines are located at the station entrance by the ticket office and at the car park, 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 Reading arrive at?

Trains from Reading 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 Wifi

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.