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Trains from Bedford St Johns to
Colchester

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Bedford St Johns to Colchester by train

A train trip from Bedford St Johns to Colchester takes about 2hrs 51 mins on average, covering roughly 60 miles (96 kilometres). With around 18 trains running each day, there's plenty of flexibility for your travel plans. If you book in advance, you can grab tickets starting from just £66.30, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.

Bedford St Johns to Colchester Key Stats

Arrival Station

Colchester

Departure Station

Bedford St Johns

Frequency

18trains
per day

Journey Time

from2hrs 23 mins

Changes

3-3no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

05:55 / 23:19

Distance

60miles
(96 km)

3 Routes

5 Train Operators

Prices

from£66.30

Travelling from Bedford St Johns to Colchester by Train

Hop on a Train from Bedford St Johns to Colchester – It’s Faster Than You Think!

Planning to travel from Bedford St Johns to Colchester by train? Well, you've come to the right place – and don’t worry, it won’t take forever!

On average, the journey takes around 2hrs 51 mins. But if you’re in a hurry (or just really eager to get to Colchester), the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 2hrs 23 mins. With roughly 18 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 60-mile (96 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of Thameslink, East Midlands Railway, West Midlands Trains, Elizabeth Line, Abellio Greater Anglia, all of whom offer comfy seats and plenty of luggage space – because, let’s face it, nobody likes a cramped train!

The best part? Tickets start from just £66.30 if you book in advance, which is a much better deal than scrambling for tickets on the day. Want to save even more? Travelling during Off-Peak hours or flashing a Railcard can help you keep more money in your wallet.

So, ready to snag those cheap tickets? Use our Journey Planner to find the latest prices and make your wallet happy. Keep scrolling for more travel tips, or check out our timetable above for live train times. Time to choo-choo your way to Colchester!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Bedford St Johns and Colchester

Curious about your trip from Bedford St Johns to Colchester? We've put together answers to the most commonly asked questions from our customers to make planning your journey easier.

How long does it take to travel between Bedford St Johns and Colchester by train?

The travel time between Bedford St Johns and Colchester by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 2hrs 51 mins & the fastest journey takes 2hrs 23 mins.

What's the fastest journey time between Bedford St Johns and Colchester by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Bedford St Johns to Colchester is 2hrs 23 mins.

How much does the train from Bedford St Johns to Colchester cost?

Train ticket prices from Bedford St Johns to Colchester can start from as little as £66.30 when you book in advance. The cost of tickets can vary depending on the time of day, route and class you book and are usually more expensive if you book on the day.

What are the departure and arrival times for trains between Bedford St Johns and Colchester?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Bedford St Johns and Colchester vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 18 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 05:55, and the last train of the day leaves at 23:19.

What is the difference between first class and standard class on trains between Bedford St Johns and Colchester?

First class tickets on trains between Bedford St Johns and Colchester typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.

What amenities are available on trains between Bedford St Johns and Colchester?

Amenities on trains between Bedford St Johns and Colchester can include free Wi-Fi, power outlets, onboard catering, and comfortable seating.

What is the cheapest way to travel from Bedford St Johns to Colchester by train?

By booking your tickets on traintickets.com! There are many ways to save on the cost of train travel between Bedford St Johns and Colchester. On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to Colchester, and can save you up to 90%! Simply search for your journey, and be assured we have found you the best possible price.

Is it possible to take a direct train from Bedford St Johns to Colchester?

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Bedford St Johns & Colchester. However, there are 18 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Bedford St Johns to Colchester?

Thameslink, East Midlands Railway, West Midlands Trains, Elizabeth Line and Abellio Greater Anglia are the main train operating companies running services between Bedford St Johns and Colchester.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between Bedford St Johns and Colchester?

Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between Bedford St Johns and Colchester, but there may be limits on the number of bags or the size and weight of your luggage.

When are Bedford St Johns to Colchester Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Bedford St Johns to Colchester on Saturday 3rd May 2025, with our handy timetable below.

Alternatively, you can view the full day's schedule or search for a different date here!

Saturday 3rd May
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
05:55 Bedford St Johns08:46 Colchester3 changesBedford
Farringdon
London Liverpool Street
2 hrs 51 mins Get Tickets
06:18 Bedford St Johns09:16 Colchester3 changesBletchley
London Euston
London Liverpool Street
2 hrs 58 mins Get Tickets
07:20 Bedford St Johns09:46 Colchester3 changesBedford
Farringdon
London Liverpool Street
2 hrs 26 mins Get Tickets
08:23 Bedford St Johns10:46 Colchester3 changesBedford
Farringdon
London Liverpool Street
2 hrs 23 mins Get Tickets
09:23 Bedford St Johns11:46 Colchester3 changesBedford
Farringdon
London Liverpool Street
2 hrs 23 mins Get Tickets
10:23 Bedford St Johns12:46 Colchester3 changesBedford
Farringdon
London Liverpool Street
2 hrs 23 mins Get Tickets
11:23 Bedford St Johns13:46 Colchester3 changesBedford
Farringdon
London Liverpool Street
2 hrs 23 mins Get Tickets
12:23 Bedford St Johns14:46 Colchester3 changesBedford
Farringdon
London Liverpool Street
2 hrs 23 mins Get Tickets
13:23 Bedford St Johns15:46 Colchester3 changesBedford
Farringdon
London Liverpool Street
2 hrs 23 mins Get Tickets
14:23 Bedford St Johns16:46 Colchester3 changesBedford
Farringdon
London Liverpool Street
2 hrs 23 mins Get Tickets
15:23 Bedford St Johns17:46 Colchester3 changesBedford
Farringdon
London Liverpool Street
2 hrs 23 mins Get Tickets
16:23 Bedford St Johns18:46 Colchester3 changesBedford
Farringdon
London Liverpool Street
2 hrs 23 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Bedford St Johns to Colchester journeys?

From booking in Advance, to our FairSplits, here are our tips for you to find the best price

Advance Tickets

A single ticket for one journey leaving at a specific date and time.

The rule is: the sooner you book the cheaper they are. Usually the cheapest, but least flexible.

Off-Peak & Super Off-Peak Tickets

Offering greater flexibility than Advances, Off-Peak tickets offer travel during less busy times of day trading off more flexibility in the Off-Peak windows but for still discounted fares.

Anytime Tickets

Anytime tickets are fully flexible allowing travel at any time of the day. Brilliant if you don’t want the pressure of clock watching, returning when you want

Anytime fares from Bedford St Johns to Colchester are available for £66.30 one way, or £97.50 return

With our FairSplit technology, you can save up to 90% on the cost of train travel.

Split ticketing means that instead of purchasing one rail ticket for your journey we automatically find and help you book two or more tickets instead, covering exactly the same journey. We call it our FairSplit.

Travelling in a group? We can save you even more!

Unlike other split ticketing sites, you can enter multiple railcards in a single search on traintickets.com. We will find you the best price using all possible combinations of your railcards in conjunction with our split ticketing technology & GroupSave.

When you do a search on traintickets.com we check all the cheapest prices automatically

Everything you need to know about Bedford St Johns Station

Exploring Bedford St Johns Train Station

Nestled in the charming town of Bedford, Bedford St Johns Train Station offers a glimpse into the quieter side of rail travel in the UK. While it may not boast the flurry of activity seen in larger stations, its simplicity serves the local community effectively. If you are planning on making this station a part of your journey, here's what you need to know to make your trip as smooth as possible.

Station Facilities

Travelers should note that Bedford St Johns operates as an unstaffed station, which means that there is no ticket office or ticket machines available on-site. However, smartcard holders don't need to worry about finding a validator here, as there are none. If you require assistance when planning your journey, there are help points available on the platforms to offer information and guidance.

Accessibility is a key focus, with step-free access available, although this may involve longer or steeper routes to platforms. Uniquely regarded as a category B1 station, step-free access is incorporated into all platforms, ensuring everyone can use the station with confidence. That said, there are no staff members to assist, so plan accordingly.

Transport Links

For those concerned about onward travel from Bedford St Johns, the station does provide a platform to access other modes of transportation. There are rail replacement services that operate from the Melbourne Street car park just a short distance from the station, ideal if you find your train connections disrupted. Additionally, bus services complement local travel needs—ensuring continued travel flexibility.

Popular Routes and Travel Tips

When looking to explore beyond Bedford St Johns, there are several popular routes that might catch your interest. The station provides services to nearby towns and larger hubs such as Bedford, Luton, and London St Pancras International. Whether for a short commute or a leisurely outing, you have options to traverse much of Bedfordshire and beyond. If you're heading to the airport, you can catch trains to Luton Airport Parkway, making your travel that much easier.

For those seeking a journey that encompasses both tranquility and utility, a trip from Bedford St Johns to destinations like Flitwick, Stewartby, or the iconic London Kings Cross might just be what you need. Remember, with services to places like St Albans City or Harpenden, your travel horizons from this humble station are wider than you might expect.

Final Thoughts

Though modest, Bedford St Johns Train Station plays a vital role in local commuting and offers an essential connectivity point with key locations both near and far. Without the distractions of bustling station amenities, you can focus on the scenic and essential aspects of your journey. As you prepare for travel, booking your tickets online in advance will ensure a seamless experience as you navigate the rail networks from Bedford St Johns.

With its emphasis on accessible travel and local integration, Bedford St Johns stands as a testament to functionality and simplicity within the UK's extensive rail network. Whether you're hopping on a train for the daily grind or embarking on a new adventure, the station offers a relaxed gateway and connection to your next destination.

Everything you need to know about Colchester Station

Welcome to Colchester Train Station: Your Gateway to Exploration

Colchester train station, a vital hub on the Great Eastern Main Line, offers a seamless connection to a plethora of destinations and experiences. With a history rooted deep in the heart of Essex, Colchester station brilliantly combines modern amenities with the charm of a bygone era. Whether you're a daily commuter, an occasional traveler, or simply planning a day trip, the station is equipped to cater to your every need.

Facilities and Amenities

Colchester station provides an array of conveniences to make your journey comfortable and stress-free. The station's ticket office operates extensively from as early as 5:00 AM on weekdays to as late as 10:00 PM, ensuring that buying or collecting tickets is hassle-free. There's no shortage of accessible ticket machines and smartcard validators, making it easy for travelers to plan their journeys.

For those requiring special assistance, Colchester station offers step-free access to all platforms. While there's a significant walking distance between sides, the station advises customers with restricted mobility to use the London bound entrance on Station Way, which offers easier lift access. The support for passengers continues with the availability of ramps for train access, accessible toilets, and assistance meeting points to ensure a smooth travel experience.

If you're looking to grab a bite on the go, you won't be disappointed. Options include Coffeelink, Starbucks, and Grab A Pizza This, together with self-service vending machines. The station also hosts a WHSmith and a Photo-Me digital photo booth, covering your shopping and convenience needs.

Onward Connections

Getting to and from Colchester is as smooth as your train journey. Illustrious for its transport links, Colchester station has you well-connected by bus or bike. The station is a PlusBus location, simplifying your transition from train to local bus services. Rail replacement bus services are conveniently located on the station forecourt, ensuring that even during disruptions, your journey continues without a hitch.

Bicycle storage is abundant, with 576 spaces including compounds and racks. However, there's no bicycle hire, so come prepared if you plan to pedal the local sights. For those with vehicles, rest easy with the ample parking operated by National Car Parks Ltd., available 24/7 with CCTV surveillance for added security.

Journey Inspiration: Popular Routes from Colchester

If you're in the mood for adventure, Colchester serves as a perfect springboard to a multitude of destinations. The vibrant streets of London are only a train ride away, making London Liverpool Street and Stratford popular choices. Nearby town escapes include Ipswich and Chelmsford, offering a haven of shopping, dining, and historical exploration.

For coastal retreats, consider heading to Clacton-on-Sea or Walton-on-the-Naze. Nature enthusiasts will find solace in the picturesque surroundings of Sudbury and its charming villages. So whether you're seeking the bustle of the city or the peace of the countryside, Colchester caters to all.

Time to Embark on Your Colchester Journey!

Colchester train station stands as a testament to efficient travel intermingled with enriching experiences. Its facilities and connections ensure that travelers can embark on journeys both near and far, safely and comfortably. A visit to Colchester means you're not just traveling; you're stepping into a narrative that grows richer with each explored destination. So, what's next on your journey map? Let Colchester station be the starting chapter of your next adventure.

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Bedford St Johns