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Trains from Colchester Town to
Helmsdale

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Colchester Town to Helmsdale by train

A train trip from Colchester Town to Helmsdale takes about 18hrs 52 mins on average, covering roughly 467 miles (751 kilometres). With around 3 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 £50.10, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.

Colchester Town to Helmsdale Key Stats

Arrival Station

Helmsdale

Departure Station

Colchester Town

Frequency

3trains
per day

Journey Time

from14hrs 27 mins

Changes

3-5no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

06:41 / 22:44

Distance

467miles
(751 km)

3 Routes

6 Train Operators

Prices

from£50.10

Travelling from Colchester Town to Helmsdale by Train

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

Planning to travel from Colchester Town to Helmsdale 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 18hrs 52 mins. But if you’re in a hurry (or just really eager to get to Helmsdale), the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 14hrs 27 mins. With roughly 3 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 467-mile (751 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of London North Eastern Railway, Caledonian Sleeper, Abellio Greater Anglia, Lumo, ScotRail, Great Northern, 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 £50.10 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 Helmsdale!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Colchester Town and Helmsdale

Curious about your trip from Colchester Town to Helmsdale? 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 Helmsdale by train?

The travel time between Colchester Town and Helmsdale by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 18hrs 52 mins & the fastest journey takes 14hrs 27 mins.

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

The fastest journey time by train from Colchester Town to Helmsdale is 14hrs 27 mins.

How much does the train from Colchester Town to Helmsdale cost?

Train ticket prices from Colchester Town to Helmsdale can start from as little as £50.10 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 Helmsdale?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Colchester Town and Helmsdale vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 3 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 06:41, and the last train of the day leaves at 22:44.

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

First class tickets on trains between Colchester Town and Helmsdale 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 Helmsdale?

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

What is the cheapest way to travel from Colchester Town to Helmsdale 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 Helmsdale. On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to Helmsdale, 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 Helmsdale?

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Colchester Town & Helmsdale. However, there are 3 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Colchester Town to Helmsdale?

London North Eastern Railway, Caledonian Sleeper, Abellio Greater Anglia, Lumo, ScotRail and Great Northern are the main train operating companies running services between Colchester Town and Helmsdale.

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

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

When are Colchester Town to Helmsdale Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Colchester Town to Helmsdale on Tuesday 6th May 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Tuesday 6th May
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
18:35 Colchester Town13:12 Helmsdale3 changesLondon Liverpool Street
London Euston
Inverness
18 hrs 37 mins Get Tickets
21:35 Colchester Town21:08 Helmsdale5 changesLondon Liverpool Street
Moorgate
Stevenage
Edinburgh
Inverness
23 hrs 33 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Colchester Town to Helmsdale 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 Colchester Town to Helmsdale start from as little as £50.10

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 Colchester Town to Helmsdale start from £115.40 one way

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 Helmsdale are available for £147.50 one way

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 Helmsdale Station

Discovering Helmsdale Train Station

Helmsdale train station sits quietly in the scenic village of Helmsdale, a place marked on the map for its picturesque charm in the Scottish Highlands. Whether you're a frequent traveler or a onetime visitor, Helmsdale station offers a unique travel experience. This rural station might not boast a bustling environment, but its tranquil setting provides a quiet respite from the hustle of urban life. So, if you’re looking to escape the city, view some of nature’s scenic views, or travel further into Scotland, Helmsdale could be your gateway.

Station Facilities and Services

Helmsdale station, although quaint and minimally equipped, covers essential facilities for basic travel needs. Travellers should be prepared for a self-service experience, as there are no ticket offices or machines available in the station. Tickets should be purchased online ahead of your journey. While this might seem limiting, take solace in the availability of an induction loop for those who need auditory assistance and there are help points to guide any inquiries.

Step-free access is available across parts of the station, ensuring some degree of accessibility, although be mindful when transitioning between the train and the platform, particularly at platform 1. With no designated accessible taxis or set down points, planning ahead is key if mobility support is needed. Unfortunately, the station does not feature many common conveniences such as toilets, refreshments, or Wi-Fi, making preparation before arrival essential.

Travelling Onward from Helmsdale

While Helmsdale may feel isolated at first glance, onward travel options keep you connected. You can access bus services directly from the station's car park. For accurate pick-up points, services like What3Words provide exact locations for convenience. For more travel details, you can visit Traveline Scotland or contact them at 0871 200 22 33 for real-time bus schedules. Furthermore, taxi services can be sourced through the TrainTaxi website ensuring you're not stranded after reaching your destination.

For those eager to reconnect with urban life or explore further afield, popular train routes from Helmsdale can take you to key destinations. Whether you're headed to the vibrant city of Inverness, the historic appeal of Thurso, or the bustling streets of Edinburgh, Helmsdale can serve as a launching pad. More scenic routes include travel to Lairg, Wick, or even as far as Glasgow Central, providing a variety of destinations to cater to diverse travel interests.

Popular Train Routes from Helmsdale

If you're curious about where a journey from Helmsdale might take you, there’s a plethora of destinations to consider. For a taste of Scottish highland culture, consider traveling to Inverness or perhaps a spectacular coastal view trip to Brora. If you're craving a bit of adventure, a ride to Dunrobin Castle or discovering history in Edinburgh may satisfy your wanderlust. Longer connections available include the journey to Glasgow Central and as far as Aberdeen, which is perfect for those extended travel plans.

Conclusion

Though modest in offerings, Helmsdale train station provides the essentials for those travelling within the Scottish Highlands and beyond. Its simplicity invites travellers to experience the beauty of uncomplicated travel and the charm of rural Scotland, making it a worthwhile stop for any adventurer venturing into the area. Plan your journey with ease and let Helmsdale serve as your serene connection point into the heart of Scotland.

To ensure a smooth experience, remember to plan your travel ahead and equip yourself comfortably for the journey. Embrace the opportunities offered by Helmsdale and embark on a meaningful railway adventure that could take you places you never knew you wanted to visit!

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Colchester Town