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Trains from Colchester Town to
Dorchester South

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Colchester Town to Dorchester South by train

A train trip from Colchester Town to Dorchester South takes about 5hrs 29 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 £101.90, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.

Colchester Town to Dorchester South Key Stats

Arrival Station

Dorchester South

Departure Station

Colchester Town

Frequency

36trains
per day

Journey Time

from4hrs 28 mins

Changes

2-4no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

06:12 / 23:07

Distance

165miles
(266 km)

8 Routes

4 Train Operators

Prices

from£101.90

Travelling from Colchester Town to Dorchester South by Train

Hop on a Train from Colchester Town to Dorchester South – It’s Faster Than You Think!

Planning to travel from Colchester Town to Dorchester South 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 5hrs 29 mins. But if you’re in a hurry (or just really eager to get to Dorchester South), the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 4hrs 28 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 GWR, Abellio Greater Anglia, South Western Railway, Elizabeth Line, 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 £101.90 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 Dorchester South!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Colchester Town and Dorchester South

Curious about your trip from Colchester Town to Dorchester South? 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 Colchester Town and Dorchester South by train?

The travel time between Colchester Town and Dorchester South by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 5hrs 29 mins & the fastest journey takes 4hrs 28 mins.

What's the fastest journey time between Colchester Town and Dorchester South by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Colchester Town to Dorchester South is 4hrs 28 mins.

How much does the train from Colchester Town to Dorchester South cost?

Train ticket prices from Colchester Town to Dorchester South can start from as little as £101.90 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 Colchester Town and Dorchester South?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Colchester Town and Dorchester South 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 06:12, and the last train of the day leaves at 23:07.

What is the difference between first class and standard class on trains between Colchester Town and Dorchester South?

First class tickets on trains between Colchester Town and Dorchester South typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.

What amenities are available on trains between Colchester Town and Dorchester South?

Amenities on trains between Colchester Town and Dorchester South can include free Wi-Fi, power outlets, onboard catering, and comfortable seating.

What is the cheapest way to travel from Colchester Town to Dorchester South by train?

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

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Colchester Town & Dorchester South. However, there are 36 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Colchester Town to Dorchester South?

GWR, Abellio Greater Anglia, South Western Railway and Elizabeth Line are the main train operating companies running services between Colchester Town and Dorchester South.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between Colchester Town and Dorchester South?

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

When are Colchester Town to Dorchester South Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Colchester Town to Dorchester South on Monday 5th May 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Monday 5th May
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
22:44 Colchester Town08:32 Dorchester South3 changesColchester
London Liverpool Street
London Waterloo
9 hrs 48 mins Get Tickets
23:00 Colchester Town10:12 Dorchester South3 changesColchester
London Liverpool Street
London Waterloo
11 hrs 12 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Colchester Town to Dorchester South 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 Colchester Town to Dorchester South are available for £101.90 one way, or £129.70 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 Colchester Town Station

Welcome to Colchester Town Station

Are you planning a trip that starts or ends at Colchester Town Station? You're in the right place for detailed insights on what the station has to offer. Colchester Town Station is a vital hub in Essex, seamlessly connecting both locals and visitors to some of the region’s finest destinations. Whether you're commuting to work or indulging in a day trip, you’ll find everything you need here.

Facilities and Amenities at Colchester Town Station

Colchester Town Station is set up to ensure a smooth and comfortable journey for all travelers. The ticket office is open from 06:10 to 20:15 on weekdays and slightly shorter hours on Saturdays, providing ample opportunity for passengers to purchase and collect tickets. There's no need to worry if you’re catching an early or late train, as ticket machines are available around the clock, and they even support smartcard validators.

For those requiring assistance, station staff are on hand to offer help and support during ticket office hours. There are also help points and screens to keep you informed about departures. Notably, the station offers step-free access, making it easy for everyone to navigate, and it's equipped with an induction loop for those with hearing impairments.

Need a quick refreshment before you board? Stop by the 'Steam' kiosk for a coffee and snack. Free parking is available at a local council-managed car park, minus accessible spaces, but if you're arriving by bike, there are sheltered stands for safe storage. Unfortunately, the station doesn’t offer luggage storage or accessible toilets, but basic toilet facilities are available during select hours.

Travel Connections at Colchester Town

Stepping out of Colchester Town Station, you'll discover various transport links to continue your journey. It’s only a five-minute walk to the Colchester Bus Station. When there are engineering works or service disruptions, the local bus services, including routes 61, 62, 65, and 66, accept rail tickets to help passengers reach alternative nearby stations. Just keep an eye out for the replacement bus stop near the Magistrates' Court if you need a shuttle due to planned engineering works.

Destination Inspiration from Colchester Town

If you’re wondering where the rails might take you, Colchester Town Station connects to a host of popular locations. For a city break, you can take a train to London Liverpool Street or head to Chelmsford. If a coastal trip is on your itinerary, catch a direct ride to charming seaside towns like Clacton-on-Sea or Frinton-on-Sea. There's also the historical appeal of Ipswich or delightful escapes like Wivenhoe and Dovercourt.

Your Gateway to Exploration

Colchester Town Station is your launchpad for discovering both local gems and metropolitan wonders. Whether it’s business or leisure, the station equips travelers with necessary facilities, comfort, and easy ticket purchases, all while providing vital connections to other modes of transport. Bookmark this station for your next journey and enjoy seamless travel in and around Essex and beyond!

Everything you need to know about Dorchester South Station

Exploring Dorchester South Station

Nestled in the charming county of Dorset, Dorchester South train station serves as a vital gateway for travelers to explore the picturesque landscapes and historic attractions of Southern England. This station provides numerous facilities to ensure a comfortable and efficient journey for all passengers.

Facilities and Services at Dorchester South Station

Dorchester South station is equipped with a ticket office, which is open daily with varied hours from early morning till early evening. For those who enjoy the convenience of buying their tickets online, ticket machines are available for collecting online purchases. Notably, these machines are accessible for disabled persons and allow for Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. However, no staff help is available at the station, and it is essential to be aware that while an induction loop is present, the station may pose accessibility challenges due to limited step-free access across platforms.

For your convenience, lounges and waiting rooms are heated and available during the station’s operating hours. Although there are no refreshment facilities within, the station offers public Wi-Fi. Despite the absence of on-site ATMs or shopping options, this connectivity ensures you can plan your journey or catch up on work as you wait for your train. While there’s no cycle hire, bike storage is available with lockers and racks for secure parking.

Onward Travel and Accessibility

The station forecourt, located off Weymouth Avenue, is the designated point for rail replacement services, offering a seamless option for continued travel. Although there is no dedicated taxi rank, local bus services provide connections, and more information is available on planning onward journeys. The presence of only two accessible parking spaces may require prior planning for those traveling by car.

Popular Routes from Dorchester South

Dorchester South is a convenient starting point for many exciting destinations. It’s easy to venture to nearby locales such as Weymouth or head further afield to the bustling capital via London Waterloo. Nearby coastal cities and towns like Bournemouth, Poole, and Wareham are also popular journeys, perfect for day trips or weekend getaways. Whether your destination is a picturesque Dorset village or a thriving urban center, Dorchester South station offers a vast network of travel options to explore the region and beyond.

Your Journey Begins Here

Dorchester South train station stands ready to connect travelers to some of the most beautiful and vibrant areas within Southern England. Despite the limitations in amenities, the station’s strategic location and transport links make it an essential embarkation point for discovering new adventures. If you're ready to set forth on your next journey, consider purchasing your rail tickets from Dorchester South and explore all that this charming region and its surrounds have to offer.

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Colchester Town