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Trains from Colchester Town to
Thurso

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Colchester Town to Thurso by train

A train trip from Colchester Town to Thurso takes about 17hrs 44 mins on average, covering roughly 495 miles (797 kilometres). With around 2 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 Thurso Key Stats

Arrival Station

Thurso

Departure Station

Colchester Town

Frequency

2trains
per day

Journey Time

from15hrs 39 mins

Changes

3-4no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

06:41 / 19:45

Distance

495miles
(797 km)

2 Routes

4 Train Operators

Prices

from£50.10

Travelling from Colchester Town to Thurso by Train

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

Planning to travel from Colchester Town to Thurso 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 17hrs 44 mins. But if you’re in a hurry (or just really eager to get to Thurso), the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 15hrs 39 mins. With roughly 2 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 495-mile (797 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of London North Eastern Railway, Abellio Greater Anglia, ScotRail, Caledonian Sleeper, 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 Thurso!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Colchester Town and Thurso

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

The travel time between Colchester Town and Thurso by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 17hrs 44 mins & the fastest journey takes 15hrs 39 mins.

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

The fastest journey time by train from Colchester Town to Thurso is 15hrs 39 mins.

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

Train ticket prices from Colchester Town to Thurso 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 Thurso?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Colchester Town and Thurso vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 2 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 06:41, and the last train of the day leaves at 19:45.

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

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

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

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

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Colchester Town & Thurso. However, there are 2 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Colchester Town to Thurso?

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

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

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

When are Colchester Town to Thurso Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Colchester Town to Thurso 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
20:35 Colchester Town17:50 Thurso4 changesLondon Liverpool Street
London Kings Cross
Edinburgh
Inverness
21 hrs 15 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Colchester Town to Thurso 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 Thurso 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 Thurso 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 Thurso 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 Thurso Station

Welcome to Thurso Train Station

Nestled in the northern reaches of Scotland, Thurso Train Station serves as the gateway to one of Britain's most scenic rail corridors. Whether you are setting off on an idyllic exploration of the Scottish coastline or planning a business trip to the bustling cities far south, Thurso is your starting point. This small yet significant station may not boast grand amenities, but it's rich in character and history, making your journey memorable right from the start.

Facilities and Amenities

Thurso Train Station ensures accessibility with step-free access throughout the whole station, a feature that makes it convenient for passengers with mobility concerns. While ticket machines are not available, tickets can be collected from the ticket office, which is operational on weekdays and Saturdays until around mid-afternoon. Passenger assistants are on hand during these times to offer help. Though there's no CCTV present, safety remains a priority, with support accessible through customer help points stationed strategically.

The station's simplicity extends to its offerings, with payphones available to keep communication flowing. There are no shops or refreshment facilities, so packing a snack might not be a bad idea. Those traveling with babies will appreciate the baby changing facilities. Cyclists, too, are well catered for, with sheltered bicycle stands and a bike shop nearby, ensuring you can hop on two wheels upon arrival.

Transport Links and Onward Travel

Whether your journey is beginning or ending at Thurso, ample transportation options facilitate seamless connections. Buses and taxis are available, with rail replacement services picking up and dropping off at the station car park. For those seeking to explore further afield, bicycle hire is just a call away at The Bike Shop. Need to plan your onward journey by bus? Head over to Traveline Scotland for reliable service details.

Popular Routes from Thurso

From the serenity of Thurso, a world of destinations awaits. Fancy a trip to Scotland’s historical cities? You could head to Edinburgh or Glasgow Central. For something closer, why not take a scenic route to Inverness or a short jaunt to Wick? The station also offers routes to Aberdeen, Dundee, and more. There are plenty of captivating stops for adventurous day-trippers or overnight stays alike.

Your Ticket to Adventure

There’s something timeless about embarking on a journey from a station like Thurso. The convenience of services accompanied by an array of scenic travel routes creates limitless possibilities for exploration. Booking your tickets is now easier than ever, whether through online platforms or at the station itself. So why not take advantage of the opportunities that lie along the railway lines stretching out from Thurso? Unleash your wanderlust and let your journey begin amidst the enchantment of the Scottish Highlands. Safe travels!

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Colchester Town