- 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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Journey information
Overview: Train from Watford to Colchester
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Watford to Colchester run on average 15 times per day, taking around 1h 43m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £30 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 04:15, the last at 22:36. The fastest train covers the 93 km distance in 1h 17m.
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 93 km |
Average train duration 1h 43m |
Cheapest ticket price £30 |
Trains per day 15 |
Fastest train 1h 17m |
First train 4:15 |
Last train 22:36 |
Cheapest Month Sept |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sept |
Best time to book 6 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
Frequently asked questions about your Watford to Colchester trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Watford to Colchester.
The cost of a train ticket from Watford to Colchester can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £30, while the average price tends to be around £50.
The train journey from Watford to Colchester covers a distance of 93 km and takes approximately 1h 17m. Trains run 15 per day.
The train distance from Watford to Colchester is 93 km.
The first train from Watford to Colchester leaves at 4:15.
The last train from Watford to Colchester departs at 22:36.
Trains from Watford to Colchester run approximately 15 times per day.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Watford to Colchester.
Why should you book Watford to Colchester trains with Omio?
Greater Anglia as well as London Overground offer trains services from Watford to Colchester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Watford 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 London Overground to find the best option for your trip from Watford 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?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of London Overground to find the best option for your trip from Watford to Colchester.
Train companies: Greater Anglia, London Overground from Watford to Colchester trainsGreater Anglia, London Overground trains will get you between Watford and Colchester from £30. 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 17m
Cheapest Greater Anglia Price
£32
Greater Anglia frequency
13 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
London Overground
About
London Overground is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a network of suburban rail services in and around Greater London. The services run from early morning until late at night, with some lines running 24 hours a day. The trains come in a variety of types, including the Class 378 Capitalstar, Class 172 Turbostar, Class 315, Class 317, Class 508 and Class 700 Desiro City. London Overground offers a range of ticket types, including single, return, off-peak and super off-peak tickets. Onboard facilities include air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, power sockets and CCTV. The most popular routes for London Overground are from Euston to Watford Junction, from Liverpool Street to Enfield Town, and from Clapham Junction to Stratford.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average London Overground Duration
1h 52m
Cheapest London Overground Price
£30
London Overground frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
Two large items of luggage and one small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Luggage racks available at the ends of carriages and overhead storage
Cancellation Policy
Refunds subject to administrative fee and fare conditions
Refund
Full refund available for service cancellations
Amenities on board the train
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Step-free access at many stations, wheelchair spaces on trains, priority seating
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be leashed. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Watford and Colchester
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Watford to Colchester.
There is no night train service from Watford to Colchester.
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.
Plan your visit to Colchester
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Colchester.
The train journey from Watford to Colchester offers a mix of urban and rural views, with glimpses of the English countryside, charming towns, and some industrial areas along the way. While not renowned for its scenic value, passengers can enjoy varied landscapes throughout the trip.
FAQs: Watford to Colchester train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Watford 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.
Booking trains from Watford to Colchester in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
Yes, you can take the train from Watford to Colchester.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Watford and Colchester
Most Watford to Colchester trains use the Watford High Street to Colchester station pair. Use this guide to compare Watford and Colchester train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Watford
Arrival train stations in Colchester
Which Watford station do trains to Colchester leave from?
Trains from Watford to Colchester leave from Watford High Street. The station is from Watford city centre at Watford High Street station, 182 Watford High Street, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD17 2NW.
Watford High StreetWatford High Street station, 182 Watford High Street, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD17 2NW+44 343 222 1234
City-centre transport
Getting to Watford High Street from Watford city centre
Bus321 · 3m · £4 · every ~10 min
306 · 6m · every ~4 min
Watford High Street train station facilities and services
Watford High Street has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Watford High Street.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Watford High Street. ATMs are available at Watford High Street.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Watford High Street.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Watford High Street: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Watford High Street: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Watford High Street: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Level access to ticket office from street. Single island platform, accessible from entrance by staircase only, Accessible taxis: Contact taxi operator directly, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Ramp for train access: No, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Watford JunctionWatford Junction station, Station Road, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD17 1EU+44 3301235247
City-centre transport
Getting to Watford Junction from Watford city centre
TrainLondon Euston - Watford Junction, Kilburn High Road - Watford Junction, Willesden Junction Low Level - Watford Junction · 5m · £1 · every ~9 min
BusW20 · 5m · £2 · every ~1 min
635 · 7m · £4 · every ~2 min
322 · 20m · £2 · every ~6 min
Watford Junction train station facilities and services
Watford Junction has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Watford Junction.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Watford Junction.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Watford Junction. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0800 0248 997, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Watford Junction: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Watford Junction: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Watford Junction: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are accessible on platform 6, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Ticket Vending Machines are located in the Booking Hall, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
BusheyBushey station, Pinner Road, Watford, Greater London, WD19 4EA+44 343 222 1234
City-centre transport
Getting to Bushey from Watford city centre
Bushey is 1 km from Watford city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainWatford Junction - London Euston, Watford Junction - Willesden Junction Low Level, Watford Junction - Kilburn High Road · 2m · £1 · every ~9 min
Bus306, 832 · 9m · £4 · every ~4 min
602 · 11m · £2 · every ~5 min
885 · 14m
Bushey train station facilities and services
Bushey has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Bushey.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Bushey.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Bushey. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from information point, Helpline Contact: 0343 222 1234, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bushey: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Bushey: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bushey: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Accessibility category C. This station does not have step-free access, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible taxis: contact taxi operator directly, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Ramp for train access: No, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Which Colchester station do trains from Watford arrive at?
Trains from Watford 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 · £1 · 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.
Train stations for Watford to Colchester
Check train stations information for Watford and Colchester, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Watford that goes to Colchester is Watford High Street, and it arrives at Colchester.
Most popular train connections from Watford
More options for your journey from Watford to Colchester
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Colchester and Watford
Most popular train connections to Colchester
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