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Trains from London Waterloo East to
Colchester

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London Waterloo East to Colchester by train

Planning a train journey from London Waterloo East to Colchester? The trip usually takes about 1hrs 48 mins, covering approximately 50 miles (82 kilometres). With roughly 88 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options to suit your schedule. Booking your tickets ahead of time can snag you fares as low as £10.00, offering an economical choice for savvy travelers.

London Waterloo East to Colchester Key Stats

Arrival Station

Colchester

Departure Station

London Waterloo East

Frequency

88trains
per day

Journey Time

from1hrs 27 mins

Changes

2-3no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

00:53 / 00:12

Distance

50miles
(82 km)

3 Routes

4 Train Operators

Prices

from£10.00

Travelling from London Waterloo East to Colchester by Train

Jump on a Train from London Waterloo East to Colchester – It's Quicker Than You Expect!

Considering a train trip from London Waterloo East to Colchester? You’re in the right place, and the journey is faster than you might think!

Typically, the trip takes about 1hrs 48 mins. If you're rushing or eager to reach London Waterloo East, the quickest trains can get you there in just 1hrs 27 mins. With approximately 88 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options. This picturesque 50-mile (82 km) route usually requires just one change, with Abellio Greater Anglia, Southeastern, Thameslink, Elizabeth Line providing comfortable seating and ample luggage space – because being cramped isn't anyone's idea of fun!

The best news? By booking early, you can find tickets starting at just £10.00, a significant saving compared to last-minute purchases. To save even more, consider traveling during Off-Peak hours or using a Railcard to keep your expenses down.

Ready to grab those low-cost tickets? Use our Journey Planner to find the latest discounts and keep your budget happy. Explore more travel tips below or check our timetable for current train schedules. All aboard to Colchester!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between London Waterloo East and Colchester

Curious about your trip from London Waterloo East 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 London Waterloo East and Colchester by train?

The travel time between London Waterloo East and Colchester by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 1hrs 48 mins & the fastest journey takes 1hrs 27 mins.

What's the fastest journey time between London Waterloo East and Colchester by train?

The fastest journey time by train from London Waterloo East to Colchester is 1hrs 27 mins.

How much does the train from London Waterloo East to Colchester cost?

Train ticket prices from London Waterloo East to Colchester can start from as little as £10.00 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 London Waterloo East and Colchester?

The departure and arrival times for trains between London Waterloo East and Colchester vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 88 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 00:53, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:12.

What is the difference between first class and standard class on trains between London Waterloo East and Colchester?

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

What amenities are available on trains between London Waterloo East and Colchester?

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

What is the cheapest way to travel from London Waterloo East to Colchester by train?

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

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between London Waterloo East & Colchester. However, there are 88 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from London Waterloo East to Colchester?

Abellio Greater Anglia, Southeastern, Thameslink and Elizabeth Line are the main train operating companies running services between London Waterloo East and Colchester.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between London Waterloo East and Colchester?

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

When are London Waterloo East to Colchester Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from London Waterloo East to Colchester on Tuesday 29th April 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Tuesday 29th April
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
21:37 London Waterloo East23:13 Colchester3 changesLondon Bridge
Farringdon
Stratford (London)
1 hrs 36 mins Get Tickets
21:42 London Waterloo East23:18 Colchester3 changesLondon Bridge
Farringdon
Stratford (London)
1 hrs 36 mins Get Tickets
21:51 London Waterloo East23:44 Colchester3 changesLondon Bridge
Farringdon
Stratford (London)
1 hrs 53 mins Get Tickets
22:12 London Waterloo East00:04 Colchester3 changesLondon Bridge
Farringdon
Stratford (London)
1 hrs 52 mins Get Tickets
22:21 London Waterloo East00:14 Colchester3 changesLondon Bridge
Farringdon
London Liverpool Street
1 hrs 53 mins Get Tickets
22:51 London Waterloo East00:18 Colchester3 changesLondon Bridge
Farringdon
Stratford (London)
1 hrs 27 mins Get Tickets
23:21 London Waterloo East06:29 Colchester2 changesLewisham
Stratford (London)
7 hrs 8 mins Get Tickets
23:23 London Waterloo East06:29 Colchester3 changesLondon Bridge
Lewisham
Stratford (London)
7 hrs 6 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for London Waterloo East 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 London Waterloo East to Colchester start from as little as £10.00

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 London Waterloo East to Colchester start from £34.80 one way, or £35.80 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 London Waterloo East to Colchester are available for £37.60 one way, or £57.90 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 London Waterloo East Station

Exploring London Waterloo East Train Station: A Convenient Gateway to Discover the City

Looking to explore the vibrant city of London and beyond? London Waterloo East train station is your perfect starting point. Conveniently situated, the station serves as a vital link, connecting you to numerous destinations within London and across the UK. Let’s dive into the details of what London Waterloo East has to offer and why it's an ideal choice for your travel plans.

Facilities and Amenities at London Waterloo East

Though London Waterloo East is a bustling hub, it provides essential amenities to ensure a smooth experience for travelers. While it lacks a traditional ticket office, fear not—ticket machines are readily available for both purchase and collection of pre-booked tickets. Accessibility is thoughtfully catered for, with accessible ticket machines and step-free access via lifts from Waterloo Main station. Need assistance? Help points are clearly marked, and staff are on hand to lend a helping hand when needed.

For those traveling with youngsters or seeking some comfort, the station hosts heated waiting rooms and accessible toilets with baby-changing facilities. CCTV surveillance is in place to ensure a secure environment throughout your journey. Hungry or in need of caffeine fix? Grab a snack or a hot drink from the coffee shops and vending machines on site—no worries about missing the news as newspapers are available too!

Onward Travel: Connecting You Further

Transportation links play a crucial role in making your journey seamless. London Waterloo East does not disappoint with its comprehensive connections to other parts of the city. The bus alighting point on Sandell Street ensures easy access to local transit and rail replacement services. If you're planning an onward journey by train, numerous exciting routes can spark your travel imagination.

Popular Routes: Embark on an Adventure

Dreaming of exploring iconic locations within and around London? London Waterloo East provides access to some fantastic destinations. Whether you're commuting or planning a day trip to explore new locales, this station links you to areas such as London Bridge, London Charing Cross, and Hither Green. With easy routes to places like East Croydon or Tonbridge, your adventures are just a train ride away.

Why Choose London Waterloo East?

As a commuter or an explorer, stepping through the doors of London Waterloo East gives you the flexibility and freedom to travel with ease. Whether it’s the convenience of arriving at London Bridge or the cultural allure of reaching London Charing Cross, this station offers it all. Its facilities cater to your needs, including accessibility and necessary travel support.

Embark on Your Journey Today!

Booking your ticket is the first step to countless experiences waiting at your fingertips. With easy access to online ticket collection, friendly staff to assist, and comprehensive travel links, London Waterloo East is not just a station—it's the beginning of your next adventure. Time to pack your bags, hop on board, and embrace the journey!

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 London Waterloo East