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Trains from Gretna Green to
Colchester

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Gretna Green to Colchester by train

A train trip from Gretna Green to Colchester takes about 11hrs 14 mins on average, covering roughly 269 miles (433 kilometres). With around 1 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 £49.00, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.

Gretna Green to Colchester Key Stats

Arrival Station

Colchester

Departure Station

Gretna Green

Frequency

1trains
per day

Journey Time

from11hrs 14 mins

Changes

3-3no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

23:32 / 23:45

Distance

269miles
(433 km)

1 Routes

3 Train Operators

Prices

from£49.00

Travelling from Gretna Green to Colchester by Train

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

Planning to travel from Gretna Green 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 11hrs 14 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 11hrs 14 mins. With roughly 1 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 269-mile (433 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of ScotRail, Abellio Greater Anglia, Avanti West Coast, 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 £49.00 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 Gretna Green and Colchester

Curious about your trip from Gretna Green 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 Gretna Green and Colchester by train?

The travel time between Gretna Green and Colchester by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 11hrs 14 mins & the fastest journey takes 11hrs 14 mins.

What's the fastest journey time between Gretna Green and Colchester by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Gretna Green to Colchester is 11hrs 14 mins.

How much does the train from Gretna Green to Colchester cost?

Train ticket prices from Gretna Green to Colchester can start from as little as £49.00 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 Gretna Green and Colchester?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Gretna Green and Colchester vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 1 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 23:32, and the last train of the day leaves at 23:45.

What is the difference between first class and standard class on trains between Gretna Green and Colchester?

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

What amenities are available on trains between Gretna Green and Colchester?

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

What is the cheapest way to travel from Gretna Green to Colchester by train?

By booking your tickets on traintickets.com! There are many ways to save on the cost of train travel between Gretna Green 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 Gretna Green to Colchester?

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Gretna Green & Colchester. However, there are 1 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Gretna Green to Colchester?

ScotRail, Abellio Greater Anglia and Avanti West Coast are the main train operating companies running services between Gretna Green and Colchester.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between Gretna Green and Colchester?

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

When are Gretna Green to Colchester Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Gretna Green to Colchester on Monday 28th April 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Monday 28th April
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
23:32 Gretna Green09:13 Colchester3 changesCarlisle
London Euston
London Liverpool Street
9 hrs 41 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Gretna Green 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.

Advance fares from Gretna Green to Colchester start from as little as £49.00

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 Gretna Green to Colchester start from £125.00 one way, or £178.60 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 Gretna Green to Colchester are available for £220.10 one way, or £440.20 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 Gretna Green Station

Discover Gretna Green Train Station

Nestled in the village renowned for its romantic elopements, Gretna Green train station is a quaint and storied stop on the UK rail network. While the village itself boasts a rich history that dates back centuries—a beacon for lovers crossing the border—modern-day travelers will find an unassuming yet charming railway station that serves as a gateway to both local adventures and destinations further afield.

Station Facilities and Amenities

Gretna Green station is all about simplicity and maintaining a connection to its charming surroundings without the hustle of large urban stations. While this compact station does not have onsite ticket purchasing facilities or machines, it makes up for it with ease of use. There is no dedicated ticket office, but travelers can pre-purchase tickets online, ensuring a smooth travel experience. The presence of smartcard validators adds a touch of modern convenience for regular rail users. Additionally, despite being small, the station is partially accessible with step-free access available to both platforms, making it welcoming for passengers with reduced mobility.

Other amenities focus on the essentials. There are no refreshment facilities, shops, or ATMs, so plan accordingly before you arrive. For those needing transportation, the station provides clear options for taxis via Train Taxi services. Bus travel is supported through local services detailed at TravelLine Scotland’s website, offering flexibility for those exploring the surrounding areas.

Onward Travel Opportunities

Whether you're staying local or embarking on a longer journey, Gretna Green station serves as a springboard for all destinations. With the station's proximity to the Scottish border, exciting cities like Carlisle and Dumfries are a short ride away—a brief train journey from Gretna Green to Carlisle opens up a world of shops, museums, and the historic Carlisle Castle. Further afield, options are aplenty with direct trains reaching larger cities such as Glasgow and London. For an adventurous day trip, why not head from Gretna Green to Annan or enjoy the bustling streets of Glasgow Central?

For those thinking about proceeding to Edinburgh, train services are readily available, and you can find more details by visiting the dedicated page for Gretna Green to Edinburgh Waverley train times. When the journey calls for an English escape, services from Gretna Green can take you to iconic locations like Liverpool or Newcastle, making planning seamless with online booking options to help smooth out your travel itinerary.

The Charm of Gretna Green Awaits

While it may not be London's bustling King's Cross, Gretna Green station offers its own unique charm with historical significance and a peaceful setting. It stands as a fitting gateway for travelers keen to explore both historical intrigue and the diverse landscapes of England and Scotland. Its straightforward, no-frills approach is part of what makes traveling from here a pleasant experience. For those wishing to visit this historical nook, considering all travel options from Gretna Green to popular destinations like Manchester and Birmingham is as easy as a few clicks on an online ticket service.

In conclusion, Gretna Green station might be modest in structure, but it provides travelers with ample opportunities to delve into its romantic folklore while easily reaching some of the UK’s most vibrant cities. Whether you're lingering in the area or seeking broader horizons, there's a route from Gretna Green ready to whisk you away.

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 Gretna Green