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Trains from York to
Colchester

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York to Colchester by train

Considering a train trip from York to Colchester? The journey typically lasts around 3hrs 46 mins and spans about 164 miles (264 kilometres). With approximately 32 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 £19.00, making it a budget-friendly option for smart travelers.

York to Colchester Key Stats

Arrival Station

Colchester

Departure Station

York

Frequency

32trains
per day

Journey Time

from3hrs 17 mins

Changes

1-2no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

04:40 / 01:16

Distance

164miles
(264 km)

3 Routes

3 Train Operators

Prices

from£19.00

Travelling from York to Colchester by Train

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

The typical travel time is about 3hrs 46 mins, but if you're in a hurry or just eager to arrive, the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 3hrs 17 mins. With approximately 32 trains running daily, you have a wealth of options to choose from. This scenic route, spanning 164 miles (264 km), generally involves just one transfer, and operators like Grand Central, Abellio Greater Anglia, London North Eastern Railway 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 £19.00, 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 York and Colchester

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

The travel time between York and Colchester by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 3hrs 46 mins & the fastest journey takes 3hrs 17 mins.

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

The fastest journey time by train from York to Colchester is 3hrs 17 mins.

How much does the train from York to Colchester cost?

Train ticket prices from York to Colchester can start from as little as £19.00 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 York and Colchester?

The departure and arrival times for trains between York and Colchester vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 32 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 04:40, and the last train of the day leaves at 01:16.

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

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

What amenities are available on trains between York and Colchester?

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

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

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

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between York & Colchester. However, there are 32 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from York to Colchester?

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

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

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

When are York to Colchester Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from York to Colchester on Sunday 27th April 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Sunday 27th April
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
14:32 York18:16 Colchester2 changesLondon Kings Cross
London Liverpool Street
3 hrs 44 mins Get Tickets
15:01 York18:34 Colchester2 changesLondon Kings Cross
London Liverpool Street
3 hrs 33 mins Get Tickets
15:48 York19:16 Colchester2 changesLondon Kings Cross
London Liverpool Street
3 hrs 28 mins Get Tickets
16:01 York19:34 Colchester2 changesLondon Kings Cross
London Liverpool Street
3 hrs 33 mins Get Tickets
16:32 York20:16 Colchester2 changesLondon Kings Cross
London Liverpool Street
3 hrs 44 mins Get Tickets
16:59 York20:34 Colchester2 changesLondon Kings Cross
London Liverpool Street
3 hrs 35 mins Get Tickets
17:23 York21:11 Colchester2 changesLondon Kings Cross
London Liverpool Street
3 hrs 48 mins Get Tickets
17:31 York21:16 Colchester2 changesLondon Kings Cross
London Liverpool Street
3 hrs 45 mins Get Tickets
17:59 York21:34 Colchester2 changesLondon Kings Cross
London Liverpool Street
3 hrs 35 mins Get Tickets
18:33 York22:16 Colchester2 changesLondon Kings Cross
London Liverpool Street
3 hrs 43 mins Get Tickets
19:01 York22:34 Colchester2 changesLondon Kings Cross
London Liverpool Street
3 hrs 33 mins Get Tickets
19:49 York23:16 Colchester2 changesLondon Kings Cross
London Liverpool Street
3 hrs 27 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for York 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 York to Colchester start from as little as £19.00

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 York to Colchester start from £68.30 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 York to Colchester are available for £94.20 one way

With our FairSplit technology, you can save up to 90% on the cost of train travel.

The biggest saving our customers have made travelling from York to Colchester is £13.70 & the average saving on this route is £10.15!

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 York Station

Welcome to York Train Station

Situated in the historic city of York, the train station stands as a gateway to both local landmarks and broader travel destinations across the UK. Known for its bustling atmosphere and rich Victorian architecture, York station is the perfect starting point for your next journey, whether you're visiting nearby locales or setting off on a long-distance trip.

Facilities and Amenities at York Station

York station is well-equipped to meet the needs of all travelers. You can purchase and collect your train tickets with ease at the accessible ticket machines located on the main concourse, and the ticket office is open daily, although its hours vary slightly on Sundays. If you're tech-savvy, York station also supports smartcard issuances and validations for convenient access. There's no need to worry about accessibility, as the station boasts step-free access and ramps to all platforms.

Customer assistance is always at hand, with helpful staff available at information points throughout the station. CCTV is in operation for added security, and the station has earned Secure Station Accreditation. Yor wheels are welcome here; cyclists can take advantage of extensive bike storage facilities with over 600 spaces available, including sheltered and CCTV-monitored areas.

Convenient Onward Travel Options

Leaving York station is as seamless as arriving. Buses, taxis, and car hire services ensure a smooth transition to your next destination. Taxis are widely available at the rank without prior booking, although early morning or late-night arrivals may require advance arrangements with local operators like Station Taxis. Bus stop E for rail replacement services is conveniently located outside the Principal Hotel.

If you're feeling sporty or eco-friendly, bicycle hire is available from the EuropCar office on Platform 1. Should you prefer four wheels, car hire services like EuropCar and Hertz can be found within the station premises.

Popular Travel Routes from York Station

York offers an array of travel opportunities, connecting you to some of the UK's most popular destinations. Hop on a train from York to bustling London King's Cross or explore scenic routes like York to Harrogate. Commuters and regular travelers will appreciate the convenience of shorter trips to places like Leeds, Newcastle, or Manchester Victoria. For longer journeys, destinations like Edinburgh and Liverpool Lime Street are directly accessible from York station.

York Station: More Than Just a Stop

With a variety of shopping outlets, food and drink facilities, and more, York station is not just about catching your train. You'll find everything you need for a comfortable wait, including free Wi-Fi hotspots and ATM facilities on the concourse. Be it a quick coffee or a leisurely read in the heated waiting rooms, York station ensures your transit is as pleasant as possible.

As you plan your next journey, remember that York train station is more than just a stop—it's a hub of convenience, connectivity, and care, awaiting your next adventure.

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 York