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The cheapest and fastest trains from Birmingham to Colchester
Showing times and prices for Dec 15
Cheapest price
$91
Average price
$110
Fastest journey
3 h 16 m
Average duration
3 h 46 m
Trains per day
5
Distance
202 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Birmingham to Colchester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Birmingham to Colchester will cost around $110 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $91.
Fast trains
Of the 5 trains that leave Birmingham for Colchester on Mon, Dec 15, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, Dec 15 the direct trains cover the 202 km distance in an average of 3 h 46 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 16 m .
On Mon, Dec 15 the slowest trains will take 4 h 26 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
06:25AM3h49
Birmingham10:14AMColchester
$911One-way
0 transfers
04:30AM3h18
Birmingham07:48AMColchester
$941One-way
0 transfers
08:47AM4h26
Birmingham01:13PMColchester
$1041One-way
0 transfers
04:50AM3h16
Birmingham08:06AMColchester
$1201One-way
0 transfers
07:15AM3h59
Birmingham11:14AMColchester
$1391One-way
0 transfers
04:50AM3h16
Birmingham08:06AMColchester
$1201One-way
0 transfers
04:30AM3h18
Birmingham07:48AMColchester
$941One-way
0 transfers
06:25AM3h49
Birmingham10:14AMColchester
$911One-way
0 transfers
07:15AM3h59
Birmingham11:14AMColchester
$1391One-way
0 transfers
08:47AM4h26
Birmingham01:13PMColchester
$1041One-way
0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Birmingham to Colchester
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Birmingham to Colchester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €23. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 12m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €23, and a train costs an average of €29.
Distance: 125 miles (202 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus |
|---|---|
€80 Average price | €49 Average price Cheapest |
3h 42m Average total duration Fastest 3h 12m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 18m Average total duration 5h 48m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Birmingham to Colchester train times
The table below shows live departures for Birmingham to Colchester trains for tomorrow, Monday, December 15. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 6:37 PM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4:30 AM Birmingham | 3h18 | 7:48 AM Colchester | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 4:50 AM Birmingham | 3h16 | 8:06 AM Colchester | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6:25 AM Birmingham | 3h49 | 10:14 AM Colchester | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:15 AM Birmingham | 3h59 | 11:14 AM Colchester | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:47 AM Birmingham | 4h26 | 1:13 PM Colchester | 0 transfersDirect |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Birmingham to Colchester by train or bus
Compare train and bus prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Mon
Dec 15
Dec 15
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Dec 16
Dec 16
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Dec 17
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Dec 21
Dec 21
Why should you book Birmingham to Colchester trains with Omio?
Avanti West Coast as well as Chiltern Railways and CrossCountry offer trains services from Birmingham to Colchester. Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Birmingham to Colchester.
Why book with Omio vs Avanti West Coast?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Avanti West Coast, but also compare tickets for the likes of Chiltern Railways and CrossCountry to find the best option for your trip from Birmingham to Colchester.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Avanti West Coast with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Birmingham to Colchester.
Why book with Omio over Trainline and Rail Europe?
- Multiple travel company options: While Avanti West Coast tickets can be bought on Avanti West Coast's website or third party sellers, Omio allows you to compare with the likes of Chiltern Railways and CrossCountry to help you choose the right option for your journey from Birmingham to Colchester.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Birmingham to Colchester.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Birmingham to Colchester
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Birmingham to Colchester run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 12m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $36 (€29) but you can travel from only $29 (€23) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 03:42, the last at 21:36. The fastest train covers the 125 miles (202 km) distance in 2h 59m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $29 (€23)
Distance 125 miles (202 km) |
Average train duration 3h 12m |
Cheapest ticket price $36 (€29) |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 2h 59m |
First train 03:42 |
Last train 21:36 |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $29 (€23)
Train companies: Avanti West Coast, Chiltern Railways, CrossCountry from Birmingham to Colchester trainsAvanti West Coast, Chiltern Railways, CrossCountry trains will get you between Birmingham and Colchester from $29 (€23). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Avanti West Coast
About
Avanti West Coast is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates high-speed trains between London and major cities in the UK, including Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow and Edinburgh. The company offers a range of ticket types, including Standard, First Class and Advance tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drinks. The most popular routes for Avanti West Coast are London to Birmingham, London to Manchester and London to Glasgow. The company operates a fleet of Pendolino and Super Voyager trains, which offer a smooth and comfortable journey.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 59m
Cheapest Price
$36 (€29)
Avanti West Coast frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
First Class: Complimentary meals and drinks. Standard Class: Onboard shop with drinks and snacks
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Standard Class: Optional reservation for £8-12
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/alighting available
Pets
Small pets free in carriers. Dogs £30 per single journey. Guide dogs free
Quiet zone
Chiltern Railways
About
Chiltern Railways is a regional train company in the United Kingdom which is owned by Arriva Trains and has operated since 1996. Check the different ticket types for your next #[+travelMode] #[+journey]: Duo, Anytime, Season, Super Off Peak, Off Peak and Advance. syn p Chiltern Railways is a train company based in the United Kingdom with trains #[+journey]. It operates services from London Marylebone to Birmingham Snow Hill, Oxford, Banbury, Aylesbury, High Wycombe, and Stratford-upon-Avon. It also runs services from Birmingham Moor Street to Stratford-upon-Avon. Chiltern Railways offers a range of train types, including InterCity 125, Class 165 and Class 168 trains. These trains are equipped with comfortable seating, air conditioning, power sockets, and free Wi-Fi. The company offers a variety of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, Off-Peak, and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include a café bar, a shop, and a quiet coach. The most popular routes for Chiltern Railways are London Marylebone to Birmingham Snow Hill, Oxford, and High Wycombe.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 59m
Cheapest Price
$69 (€56)
Chiltern Railways frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation for £3. Free for Advance tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets free in carriers. Dogs allowed with lead
Quiet zone
CrossCountry
About
CrossCountry is a fast-speed train operator in the United Kingdom, offering both express and regional services across the country. Express services, such as the CrossCountry Voyager and XC Trains, provide quick and comfortable journeys with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. Regional services, including the CrossCountry Regional and Regional Express, make more local stops for a leisurely trip. Ticket options include Standard Class and First Class, as well as Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak fares to suit different budgets and schedules. Popular routes include London to Birmingham, Manchester to Edinburgh, and Bristol to Reading.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 37m
Cheapest Price
$183 (€147)
CrossCountry frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone
FAQs: Trains from Birmingham to Colchester
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Birmingham to Colchester by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Colchester, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
To fully explore Colchester's historic sites, including Colchester Castle and the Roman ruins, while also enjoying its cultural venues like the Firstsite art gallery and the natural beauty of Castle Park, plan to spend around 2 to 3 days.
Train ticket prices from Birmingham to Colchester can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $36 (€29), while the average price is around $100 (€80).
There is no high speed train available from Birmingham to Colchester.
The cheapest way to get from Birmingham to Colchester is by bus, with a cost of around $29 (€23).
Yes, you can take the train from Birmingham to Colchester.
A day trip from Birmingham to Colchester is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 59m one way. However, there are 6 trains available per day for this route.
The train from Birmingham to Colchester takes 2h 59m and runs 6 per day.
The train station in Birmingham that goes to Colchester is Birmingham New Street (BHM), which connects to Colchester station (COL).
The train journey from Birmingham to Colchester offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, with views of the English countryside, rolling fields, and small towns along the route.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Birmingham to Colchester.
The distance by train from Birmingham to Colchester is 125 miles (202 km).
The first train from Birmingham to Colchester leaves at 3:42 AM.
The last train from Birmingham to Colchester leaves at 9:36 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Birmingham to Colchester.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Birmingham to Colchester
Birmingham
Colchester
The major train station for departures in Birmingham is Adderley Park. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Adderley Park for your trip from Birmingham to Colchester.
Amenities at train station
Parking
Dining
Accessibility
Lounge
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Car Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday Closed Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 07:00 - 12:00 Friday 07:00 - 10:00 Saturday 12:00 - 14:00 Sunday 09:00 - 14:00
Distance to city center
3 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: No
- Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are not available
- Accessible ticket machines: There are no accessible ticket machines at this station
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 0800 0248998
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements
Public transit options for Adderley Park
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: In the event of engineering the bus/coach will collect from: Bordesley Green Road - Outside booking hall entrance.
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityLoungeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday 07:00 - 10:3012:00 - 18:00 Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 07:00 - 11:0012:00 - 18:00 Friday 07:00 - 11:0015:00 - 18:00 Saturday 11:00 - 15:00 Sunday Closed None
Distance to city center
3 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are not accessible
- Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are not available
- Accessible ticket machines: There are no accessible ticket machines at this station
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 0800 0248998
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements
Public transit options for Aston
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: In the event of engineering the bus/coach will collect from: Lichfield Road - under railway bridge at public service bus stop near to bottom of stairs for Platform 1 Walsall bound platform
Amenities at train station
Wifi
ShoppingParkingDining
ATMAccessibility
WCLounge
Lost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parking
Bike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:40 - 21:00 Saturday 06:15 - 21:00 Sunday 08:15 - 21:00
Distance to city center
12 kmParking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: This station has step-free access to all platforms / the platform
- Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible toilets: Yes
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: Yes
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes
WC
- Toilets Location: The accessible toilets are located on the Concourse.
- National key toilets: No
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: Closed until further notice.
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: 18 cycle stands plus a cycling compound with 27 spaces available at the front of the station (please see staff for more information)
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens
Public transit options for Birmingham International
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Rail replacement coach services can be found at the front of the station opposite the entrance to the long stay car park.
The major train station for arrivals in Colchester is Colchester. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Colchester for your journey to Colchester from Birmingham.
Amenities at train station
WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWC
HotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:00 - 22:00 Saturday 05:30 - 21:00 Sunday 06:00 - 21:00
Distance to city center
1 kmShopping
- Type of shops available: News agent Dry cleaner Passport Photo Booth
Parking
- Car Park: Premium Bays
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided
- Accessible taxis: Details of nearest taxis are shown on station information poster
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible toilets: Yes
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: Yes
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on all platforms. The accessible (radar key) toilets are located on Platforms 2 and 4
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Situated by the South entrance, and in the main car park by the North entrance. A secure 134-space cycle compound is also available (key fob required, speak to station staff for availability).
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 0800 028 28 78
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens
Public transit options for Colchester
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Replacement transport stop at the bus stop by main station entrance
Amenities at train station
WifiParkingDiningAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 06:10 - 20:15 Saturday 07:00 - 18:45 Sunday Closed
Parking
- Car Park: There is a Council managed car park behind the station
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided
- Accessible taxis: Details of nearest taxis are shown on station information poster
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
WC
- Toilets Location: Toilets are located alongside the ticket office and only open when the station is staffed.
- National key toilets: No
- Baby changing facilities: No
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Within station, forecourt and on platform
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 0800 028 28 78
Public transit options for Colchester Town
- Onward travel information: Colchester Town Station is around 5 minutes walk from Colchester Bus Station
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Town Railway Station Bus Stops (stop B) for planned rail replacement only.
Amenities at train station
ParkingAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike Parkinginformation
Distance to city center
1 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Accessible taxis: Details of nearest taxis are shown on station information poster
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage location: Platforms
- Storage CCTV: No
Public transit options for Hythe (Essex)
- Onward travel information: Local Colchester Town service Buses stop near station
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Replacement bus services stop at station entrance adjacent to level crossing
Most popular train connections from Birmingham
More options for your journey from Birmingham to Colchester
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Colchester and Birmingham
Most popular train connections to Colchester
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