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Trains from Sunderland to
Colchester

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Sunderland to Colchester by train

Considering a train trip from Sunderland to Colchester? The journey typically lasts around 5hrs 51 mins and spans about 228 miles (366 kilometres). With approximately 20 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 £25.20, making it a budget-friendly option for smart travelers.

Sunderland to Colchester Key Stats

Arrival Station

Colchester

Departure Station

Sunderland

Frequency

20trains
per day

Journey Time

from5hrs 13 mins

Changes

2-3no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

06:46 / 22:50

Distance

228miles
(366 km)

3 Routes

5 Train Operators

Prices

from£25.20

Travelling from Sunderland to Colchester by Train

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

The typical travel time is about 5hrs 51 mins, but if you're in a hurry or just eager to arrive, the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 5hrs 13 mins. With approximately 20 trains running daily, you have a wealth of options to choose from. This scenic route, spanning 228 miles (366 km), generally involves just one transfer, and operators like Grand Central, Northern Rail, London North Eastern Railway, Abellio Greater Anglia, Lumo 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 £25.20, 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!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Sunderland and Colchester

Curious about your trip from Sunderland 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 Sunderland and Colchester by train?

The travel time between Sunderland and Colchester by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 5hrs 51 mins & the fastest journey takes 5hrs 13 mins.

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

The fastest journey time by train from Sunderland to Colchester is 5hrs 13 mins.

How much does the train from Sunderland to Colchester cost?

Train ticket prices from Sunderland to Colchester can start from as little as £25.20 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 Sunderland and Colchester?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Sunderland and Colchester vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 20 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 06:46, and the last train of the day leaves at 22:50.

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

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

What amenities are available on trains between Sunderland and Colchester?

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

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

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

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Sunderland & Colchester. However, there are 20 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Sunderland to Colchester?

Grand Central, Northern Rail, London North Eastern Railway, Abellio Greater Anglia and Lumo are the main train operating companies running services between Sunderland and Colchester.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between Sunderland and Colchester?

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

When are Sunderland to Colchester Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Sunderland 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
13:07 Sunderland18:19 Colchester3 changesNewcastle
London Kings Cross
London Liverpool Street
5 hrs 12 mins Get Tickets
13:32 Sunderland19:19 Colchester3 changesNewcastle
London Kings Cross
London Liverpool Street
5 hrs 47 mins Get Tickets
15:09 Sunderland20:16 Colchester3 changesNewcastle
London Kings Cross
London Liverpool Street
5 hrs 7 mins Get Tickets
15:30 Sunderland20:48 Colchester2 changesLondon Kings Cross
London Liverpool Street
5 hrs 18 mins Get Tickets
17:07 Sunderland22:16 Colchester3 changesNewcastle
London Kings Cross
London Liverpool Street
5 hrs 9 mins Get Tickets
17:30 Sunderland22:46 Colchester2 changesLondon Kings Cross
London Liverpool Street
5 hrs 16 mins Get Tickets
18:28 Sunderland23:40 Colchester2 changesNewcastle
Peterborough
5 hrs 12 mins Get Tickets
20:29 Sunderland06:29 Colchester3 changesNewcastle
London Kings Cross
London Liverpool Street
10 hrs Get Tickets
22:29 Sunderland09:46 Colchester3 changesNewcastle
London Kings Cross
London Liverpool Street
11 hrs 17 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Sunderland 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 Sunderland to Colchester start from as little as £25.20

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 Sunderland to Colchester start from £90.80 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 Sunderland to Colchester are available for £121.40 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 Sunderland Station

Sunderland Train Station: Your Gateway to the North East

Nestled in the heart of North East England, Sunderland Train Station serves as a vital transport hub, providing a plethora of services and conveniences for travelers. Whether you are a local commuter or a visitor exploring the scenic beauty of the North East, Sunderland Station is poised to make your journey a smooth and pleasant experience. The station is a key point of departure for an exciting range of destinations, connecting you to major cities and charming locales.

Facilities at Sunderland Station

The station is well-equipped with a ticket office open from early morning until the evening, providing flexibility for purchasing and collecting tickets. Ticket machines are available around the clock, and the accessible machines make it easy for all travelers to get their tickets effortlessly. A smartcard facility is also on hand for those frequent travelers looking to streamline their journey.

Travelers who may need assistance will find help readily available at Sunderland Station. Staff are on duty to offer aid throughout most of the day and night, with facilities such as an induction loop in place to aid those with hearing impairments. Although there is no CCTV, customer help is accessible via contact numbers for added support.

Accessibility and Amenities

Sunderland Train Station boasts comprehensive accessibility with step-free access to all areas, including lifts to each platform. This makes it a Category A station, suitable for all passengers, particularly those with mobility challenges. With waiting rooms not in service, comfort is still maintained with ample seating available throughout. Although there are no accessible toilets, baby-changing facilities are provided to cater to those traveling with young children.

While you'll find essential facilities like refreshment options, the absence of shops means planning ahead is wise. There are no ATM or currency exchange services, so grabbing cash beforehand would be beneficial. Wi-Fi isn't available at the station, ensuring you stay off the grid while traveling or stay entertained through other offline means.

Travel Connections and Onward Journeys

Making onward journeys from Sunderland Station is seamless with its diverse transport links. The station is conveniently located near a taxi rank, making it easy to hail a cab for quick city escapes. For a more economical option, there are several local bus services to choose from. Additionally, the nearby Tyne and Wear Metro station further expands connectivity across the region.

Destinations Awaiting You

The array of destinations accessible from Sunderland is vast and enticing. Travel directly to bustling hubs like London King's Cross and Manchester Piccadilly link link, or head to the cultural hotspots of Edinburgh link and Leeds link. Have a tranquil trip to the beautiful city of York link, or enjoy a coastal visit to scenic destinations like Hartlepool link and Seaham link.

Conclusion

Sunderland Train Station is more than just a starting point for your travels in the UK; it’s a launching pad to adventure. With comprehensive facilities, accessibility options, and seamless travel links, it creates the perfect balance of convenience and connectivity. Whether you’re heading to a metropolitan marvel or a serene seaside escape, Sunderland offers routes that reflect the diverse essence of the UK. Make sure to organize your ticketing needs in advance to ensure a hassle-free start to your 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 Sunderland