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Trains from Chelmsford to
Manchester Piccadilly

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Chelmsford to Manchester Piccadilly by train

A train trip from Chelmsford to Manchester Piccadilly takes about 4hrs 56 mins on average, covering roughly 165 miles (266 kilometres). With around 36 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 £49.50, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.

Chelmsford to Manchester Piccadilly Key Stats

Arrival Station

Manchester Piccadilly

Departure Station

Chelmsford

Frequency

36trains
per day

Journey Time

from4hrs 18 mins

Changes

2-3no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

05:11 / 00:37

Distance

165miles
(266 km)

4 Routes

6 Train Operators

Prices

from£49.50

Travelling from Chelmsford to Manchester Piccadilly by Train

Hop on a Train from Chelmsford to Manchester Piccadilly – It’s Faster Than You Think!

Planning to travel from Chelmsford to Manchester Piccadilly 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 4hrs 56 mins. But if you’re in a hurry (or just really eager to get to Manchester Piccadilly), the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 4hrs 18 mins. With roughly 36 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 165-mile (266 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of East Midlands Railway, Abellio Greater Anglia, First TransPennine Express, Northern Rail, Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, 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 £49.50 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 Manchester Piccadilly!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Chelmsford and Manchester Piccadilly

Curious about your trip from Chelmsford to Manchester Piccadilly? 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 Chelmsford and Manchester Piccadilly by train?

The travel time between Chelmsford and Manchester Piccadilly by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 4hrs 56 mins & the fastest journey takes 4hrs 18 mins.

What's the fastest journey time between Chelmsford and Manchester Piccadilly by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Chelmsford to Manchester Piccadilly is 4hrs 18 mins.

How much does the train from Chelmsford to Manchester Piccadilly cost?

Train ticket prices from Chelmsford to Manchester Piccadilly can start from as little as £49.50 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 Chelmsford and Manchester Piccadilly?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Chelmsford and Manchester Piccadilly vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 36 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 05:11, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:37.

What is the difference between first class and standard class on trains between Chelmsford and Manchester Piccadilly?

First class tickets on trains between Chelmsford and Manchester Piccadilly typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.

What amenities are available on trains between Chelmsford and Manchester Piccadilly?

Amenities on trains between Chelmsford and Manchester Piccadilly can include free Wi-Fi, power outlets, onboard catering, and comfortable seating.

What is the cheapest way to travel from Chelmsford to Manchester Piccadilly by train?

By booking your tickets on traintickets.com! There are many ways to save on the cost of train travel between Chelmsford and Manchester Piccadilly. On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to Manchester Piccadilly, 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 Chelmsford to Manchester Piccadilly?

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Chelmsford & Manchester Piccadilly. However, there are 36 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Chelmsford to Manchester Piccadilly?

East Midlands Railway, Abellio Greater Anglia, First TransPennine Express, Northern Rail, Avanti West Coast and CrossCountry are the main train operating companies running services between Chelmsford and Manchester Piccadilly.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between Chelmsford and Manchester Piccadilly?

Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between Chelmsford and Manchester Piccadilly, but there may be limits on the number of bags or the size and weight of your luggage.

When are Chelmsford to Manchester Piccadilly Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Chelmsford to Manchester Piccadilly on Wednesday 21st May 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Wednesday 21st May
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
05:11 Chelmsford09:05 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon Liverpool Street
London Euston
3 hrs 54 mins Get Tickets
05:41 Chelmsford09:19 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon Liverpool Street
London Euston
3 hrs 38 mins Get Tickets
05:56 Chelmsford09:44 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon Liverpool Street
London Euston
3 hrs 48 mins Get Tickets
06:18 Chelmsford10:05 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon Liverpool Street
London Euston
3 hrs 47 mins Get Tickets
06:39 Chelmsford10:19 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon Liverpool Street
London Euston
3 hrs 40 mins Get Tickets
07:13 Chelmsford10:44 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon Liverpool Street
London Euston
3 hrs 31 mins Get Tickets
07:22 Chelmsford11:05 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon Liverpool Street
London Euston
3 hrs 43 mins Get Tickets
07:44 Chelmsford11:19 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon Liverpool Street
London Euston
3 hrs 35 mins Get Tickets
08:07 Chelmsford11:44 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon Liverpool Street
London Euston
3 hrs 37 mins Get Tickets
08:25 Chelmsford12:05 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon Liverpool Street
London Euston
3 hrs 40 mins Get Tickets
08:43 Chelmsford12:19 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon Liverpool Street
London Euston
3 hrs 36 mins Get Tickets
09:02 Chelmsford12:44 Manchester Piccadilly2 changesLondon Liverpool Street
London Euston
3 hrs 42 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Chelmsford to Manchester Piccadilly 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.

Advance fares from Chelmsford to Manchester Piccadilly start from as little as £49.50

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.

Off Peak fares from Chelmsford to Manchester Piccadilly start from £84.20 one way, or £120.30 return

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 Chelmsford to Manchester Piccadilly are available for £210.80 one way, or £421.60 return

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

The biggest saving our customers have made travelling from Chelmsford to Manchester Piccadilly is £49.50 & the average saving on this route is £36.80!

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 Chelmsford Station

Welcome to Chelmsford Station

Nestled in the bustling heart of Essex, Chelmsford train station is a hub of activity and a vital gateway for travelers venturing in and out of London. For daily commuters and occasional travelers alike, Chelmsford offers an inviting blend of efficiency and convenience. Whether you're heading to the capital or exploring the scenic beauty of Essex, Chelmsford station ensures your journey is comfortable and hassle-free.

Facilities and Amenities

Chelmsford train station offers a myriad of facilities to meet the diverse needs of its passengers. With a ticket office open from 5:50 AM to 10 PM on weekdays and Saturdays, and from 7 AM to 11 PM on Sundays, you have plenty of opportunity to grab or collect your tickets. For added convenience, ticket machines are available around the clock. Chelmsford station has taken steps to ensure accessibility for all, offering step-free access, accessible ticket machines, and toilets. CCTV coverage ensures safety, while its commitment to passenger comfort is evident in its waiting rooms, open from 5 AM to 11 PM throughout the week.

When it comes to shopping and dining, you're never short of options at Chelmsford. Grab a coffee from Coffee Link, savor a sushi roll at Ume Garden’s Sushi & Bento, or refresh yourself with a snack from one of the vending machines. If you’re in the mood for something familiar, Costa Coffee and Puccino's Deli are ready to serve you. There is even an ATM available to handle any last-minute cash needs!

Getting Around

Transport links at Chelmsford are carefully designed to ensure seamless travel. When railway services are disrupted, rail replacement buses conveniently pick up and drop off at the bus stops on Victoria Road at the station entrance. The local bus service network is quite efficient, covering Chelmsford and nearby towns and can be further explored at FirstGroup. Plus, a PLUSBUS extension to your train ticket guarantees unlimited bus travel in town at discounted rates.

Taxis are readily available from the rank just outside the station for those preferring private conveyance while the cycling community may take advantage of the extensive bicycle storage facilities with 960 spaces and sheltered, CCTV-monitored secure options available.

Popular Destinations

Chelmsford’s strategic location makes it an attractive starting point for your travels. Among the most popular destinations are trips to London Liverpool Street, Colchester, and Billericay. You can also explore routes to Ipswich, Southend Victoria, and even head further north to Norwich.

Closing Thoughts

Whether you're embarking on a short commute or a leisurely journey across East Anglia, Chelmsford train station provides a haven of accessibility, amenities, and connectivity. With its array of services and connections, you're in capable hands from the moment you step through its doors. Consider Chelmsford as your launch pad to adventure—where will it take you today?

Everything you need to know about Manchester Piccadilly Station

Exploring Manchester Piccadilly Train Station

Manchester Piccadilly is an iconic travel hub, bustling with energy and packed with features to smooth your journey. Serving millions of passengers each year, it stands as a crucial entry and exit point for both the city of Manchester and its surrounding areas. Whether you're a daily commuter or a tourist navigating the UK rail system, understanding the facilities and services at Manchester Piccadilly can enhance your travel experience significantly.

Station Facilities and Amenities

Manchester Piccadilly expertly caters to passenger needs with a variety of facilities. The ticket office operates diligently from as early as 4:30 am to 10:30 pm through the week, ensuring you can grab a ticket for those early morning travels. For those tech-savvy commuters, ticket machines are readily available and accessible, allowing smooth online ticket collection. The station is well-equipped for accessibility; offering step-free access, ramps, and tactile warning strips for the visually impaired make it a user-friendly place for all travelers.

The station boasts free public Wi-Fi, ATM machines, and a plethora of shops and dining options. Coffee lovers will appreciate the numerous kiosks, while those in need of essentials can visit the mini supermarkets and pharmacies located within the station. The station even went the extra mile to ensure comfort by providing lounges, including a 1st Class Lounge and an Assisted Travel Lounge, making it an amenable waiting experience.

Transport Links and Connectivity

Getting to and from Manchester Piccadilly is a breeze with its robust transport links. Metrolink trams connect you to key destinations like Bury, Rochdale, and Manchester Airport, among others. For those preferring buses, a network of frequent local services are operated by 'First' and 'Stagecoach'. There's also a free bus service that runs every ten minutes around the city center—a convenient option for quick city hops.

The taxi rank located at the Fairfield Street exit offers service between 2 am to 5 am, giving you round-the-clock availability. If you're looking to explore the city on two wheels, Brompton bicycles are available for hire with two flexible tariffs. Additionally, if you're embarking on a flight, Manchester International Airport is just 9-10 miles away with several direct train services throughout the day. Car hire agents are also a short walk from the station, providing flexibility in travel.

Popular Destinations from Manchester Piccadilly

If you have a penchant for exploring, Manchester Piccadilly serves as the starting point for many fascinating journeys. The station offers direct links to major destinations such as London Euston, Liverpool Lime Street, and Glasgow Central. Local routes include convenient trips to nearby spots like Stockport and Manchester Airport, ensuring you're never far from a new adventure.

Your Gateway to Adventure

Whether your travels stem from business, leisure, or curiosity, Manchester Piccadilly is more than just a train station—it's a gateway to new experiences and connections. Leveraging its exceptional facilities and detailed information will set you up for a successful journey, unlocking the vast and vibrant landscapes of the UK. Don't just arrive; embark on your journey with enthusiasm and ease from Manchester Piccadilly, where the rhythm of the railways meets the heartbeat of the city.

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Chelmsford