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Trains from Reading to
Colchester Town

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Reading to Colchester Town by train

Considering a train trip from Reading to Colchester Town? The journey typically lasts around 2hrs 29 mins and spans about 85 miles (137 kilometres). With approximately 50 trains running each day, you're spoiled for choice when scheduling your travel. By booking your tickets in advance, you could secure fares starting from just £57.20, making it a budget-friendly option for smart travelers.

Reading to Colchester Town Key Stats

Arrival Station

Colchester Town

Departure Station

Reading

Frequency

50trains
per day

Journey Time

from2hrs

Changes

2-3no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

02:24 / 00:30

Distance

85miles
(137 km)

4 Routes

3 Train Operators

Prices

from£57.20

Travelling from Reading to Colchester Town by Train

Embark on a train journey from Reading to Colchester Town, and you'll find it's quicker than you might anticipate!

The typical travel time is about 2hrs 29 mins, but if you're in a hurry or just eager to arrive, the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 2hrs. With approximately 50 trains running daily, you have a wealth of options to choose from. This scenic route, spanning 85 miles (137 km), generally involves just one transfer, and operators like Abellio Greater Anglia, GWR, Elizabeth Line offer comfortable seating with plenty of room for your luggage.

Here's the best part: by booking your tickets in advance, you can snag fares starting from only £57.20, offering a substantial saving over buying tickets at the last minute. For even more savings, consider traveling during Off-Peak times or using a Railcard.

Ready to secure those budget-friendly tickets? Use our Journey Planner to discover the latest deals and keep your travel costs down. Dive into more travel tips below or consult our timetable for up-to-date train schedules. All aboard for Colchester Town!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Reading and Colchester Town

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

The travel time between Reading and Colchester Town by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 2hrs 29 mins & the fastest journey takes 2hrs.

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

The fastest journey time by train from Reading to Colchester Town is 2hrs.

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

Train ticket prices from Reading to Colchester Town can start from as little as £57.20 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 Reading and Colchester Town?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Reading and Colchester Town vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 50 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 02:24, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:30.

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

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

What amenities are available on trains between Reading and Colchester Town?

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

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

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

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Reading & Colchester Town. However, there are 50 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Reading to Colchester Town?

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

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

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

When are Reading to Colchester Town Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Reading to Colchester Town 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
09:47 Reading12:03 Colchester Town3 changesLondon Paddington
London Liverpool Street
Colchester
2 hrs 16 mins Get Tickets
10:24 Reading12:28 Colchester Town3 changesLondon Paddington
Stratford (London)
Colchester
2 hrs 4 mins Get Tickets
10:31 Reading12:47 Colchester Town2 changesLondon Paddington
Stratford (London)
2 hrs 16 mins Get Tickets
10:49 Reading13:03 Colchester Town3 changesLondon Paddington
London Liverpool Street
Colchester
2 hrs 14 mins Get Tickets
11:27 Reading13:28 Colchester Town3 changesLondon Paddington
Stratford (London)
Colchester
2 hrs 1 min Get Tickets
11:31 Reading13:47 Colchester Town2 changesLondon Paddington
Stratford (London)
2 hrs 16 mins Get Tickets
11:47 Reading14:03 Colchester Town3 changesLondon Paddington
London Liverpool Street
Colchester
2 hrs 16 mins Get Tickets
12:24 Reading14:28 Colchester Town3 changesLondon Paddington
Stratford (London)
Colchester
2 hrs 4 mins Get Tickets
12:35 Reading14:47 Colchester Town2 changesLondon Paddington
Stratford (London)
2 hrs 12 mins Get Tickets
12:47 Reading15:03 Colchester Town3 changesLondon Paddington
London Liverpool Street
Colchester
2 hrs 16 mins Get Tickets
13:20 Reading15:28 Colchester Town3 changesLondon Paddington
London Liverpool Street
Colchester
2 hrs 8 mins Get Tickets
13:33 Reading15:47 Colchester Town2 changesLondon Paddington
Stratford (London)
2 hrs 14 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Reading to Colchester Town 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 Reading to Colchester Town are available for £57.20 one way, or £85.80 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 Reading Station

Exploring Reading Train Station

Nestled in the heart of Berkshire, Reading Train Station serves as a key gateway for countless travelers. Balancing its historic charm with modern advancements, the station offers seamless connectivity across the UK. Conveniently positioned on the Great Western Main Line, it opens up quick travel interludes to both London and beyond. Whether you're a commuter, a tourist, or perhaps just someone wandering the British railways, Reading Station is geared to meet various travel needs.

Facilities at Reading Station

Understanding the potential needs of its patrons, Reading Station furnishes extensive facilities. The ticket office operates from morning to night, opening from 06:15 to 22:00 during weekdays and Saturdays, and from 07:15 to 22:00 on Sundays. In addition, ticket machines are plentiful, and most importantly, accessible ticket machines are conveniently located for easy access. Reading Station also facilitates smart card validation, boasts an induction loop, and is reinforced with round-the-clock CCTV.

Accessibility, naturally, is a top priority here. The station provides step-free access throughout its vast span, making platforms easily reachable via lifts and bridges. Furthermore, accessible toilets, waiting rooms, and seating areas are maintained to high standards, ensuring comfort for everyone.

Shopping and dining options are abundant. Refreshment facilities, cash machines, and a selection of shops await travelers. Free public Wi-Fi adds to the comfort, making it easier to continue working or stay entertained while on the move.

Onward Travel Options

Getting to your next destination is seamless with Reading Station's diverse travel connections. Taxi ranks are readily available at both station entrances, ensuring even those with accessibility needs are well-catered to. Buses, too, are nearby, although travelers should note that not all are accessible. For those traveling further afield, frequent connections to both Heathrow and Gatwick Airports are offered, with a luxurious 'RailAir' service to Heathrow and regular trains to Gatwick.

Meanwhile, cyclists can take advantage of plentiful bicycle storage options, although there's no hire facility at the station itself.

Popular Travel Routes from Reading

Reading's strategic location makes it a springboard for numerous journeys. For instance, you can plan rides between Reading and London Paddington, a route popular with both business travelers and tourists. If local travel is on your mind, consider the quick jaunts to locations such as Wokingham or a slightly longer trip to Oxford, famed for its prestigious university and serene landscapes.

Other notable routes include travels to Basingstoke and Gatwick Airport. Whether you're heading for a day out in the country or catching a flight, these connections speak volumes about the station's versatility.

Your Next Journey

In conclusion, Reading Train Station integrates tradition with contemporary demands, catering to an ever-growing community of travelers. With its rich array of services, useful amenities, and robust connectivity options, it’s undoubtedly an essential part of the UK's railway network. Should your next journey be one of the popular routes Reading offers—perhaps venturing towards bustling city life or serene countryside—you can rest assured that the station's comprehensive services will meet your needs splendidly. Don't miss the chance to explore what makes Reading not just a passageway, but a destination in its own right. Happy travels!

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!

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Reading