4.9
4.6
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Reading to Colchester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of £50 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 9m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.1kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of £50, while a train costs an average of £50.
Distance: 138 km
Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|
£50 Average Price Cheapest | £28 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 9m Average total duration Fastest 1h 39m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 13m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
 Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Compare the available ways to get from Reading to Colchester, with the key details around price, speed, convenience, and direct service.
You'll arrive about 34m sooner (1h 39m by train vs 2h 13m by car). Tickets start at around £50 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.
How to get to Colchester from Reading by train, bus, flight or ferry.
The best way to travel from Reading to Colchester is by taking a train because it’s the best combination of price and speed.
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Find all the dates and times for this journey by train, bus, flight, and ferry .
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.
The most popular day trips by train from Colchester are London, Ipswich, Norwich, Chelmsford and Clacton-on-Sea. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your train from Colchester on Omio.
London blends royal history with modern city life, known for its museums, theatre and global food scene. Along the Thames, grand landmarks sit beside diverse neighbourhoods shaped by finance, fashion and contemporary culture.
Ipswich is one of England’s oldest towns, known for its waterfront and maritime past. Its medieval streets, parks and Suffolk atmosphere make it feel historic yet lived-in.
Norwich is known for its Norman cathedral, medieval lanes and strong independent character. Its historic market, literary links and mix of old churches and creative spaces give it a lively but relaxed feel.
Chelmsford is Essex’s county city, known for its cathedral and its links to Guglielmo Marconi. A compact centre, riverside parks and a relaxed modern feel give it an easy balance of history and everyday city life.
Clacton-on-Sea is a traditional Essex resort known for its sandy beach, pier and classic seaside amusements. Its promenade and relaxed coastal atmosphere give it the feel of a long-established British holiday town.
Travel to Colchester easily. Whether you want fast, cheap or something entirely different, our travel experts have collected everything you need to know so you can find the best option from Reading to Colchester.
However, we recommend checking specific travel dates for your route between Reading and Colchester as scheduled services by train can vary by season or day of the week.
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