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Trains from Chelmsford to Ely

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CrossCountry
Great Northern

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  1. Home
  2. Train times
  3. Chelmsford to Ely

Trains to Ely from Chelmsford

First train

04:11

Last train

01:26

Departure stationChelmsford
Arrival stationEly
Journey time

From 2h 2m

Distance

46 miles (74 km)

Frequency

80 trains per day

Changes

1 change

Train operators

CrossCountry, Great Northern, Greater Anglia, London Overground, Thameslink

What are the train times from Chelmsford to Ely?

Check out the next trains departing from Chelmsford to Ely for Tuesday 27th October 2026 using our handy timetable below, including platform and live travel information. You can view the full day timetable or search for a different date here.
DepartsArrivesDuration
13:2815:422h 14m, 1 change
13:2816:142h 46m, 2 changes
13:4116:142h 33m, 3 changes
13:5216:262h 34m, 2 changes
13:5516:332h 38m, 2 changes
14:1116:422h 31m, 3 changes
14:3416:592h 25m, 1 change
14:5216:592h 7m, 2 changes
14:5517:332h 38m, 2 changes
14:5517:412h 46m, 1 change

Travelling from Chelmsford to Ely by train

If you're planning to travel from Chelmsford to Ely, we're here to help!

On average, the train journey from Chelmsford to Ely takes around 3 hours 42 minutes. There are normally 80 trains per day travelling from Chelmsford to Ely.

You'll have to make 1 change on your journey to Ely, as there are no direct trains.

Greater Anglia, Thameslink, CrossCountry and London Overground trains operate on this route.

Save money on your train tickets by booking in advance.

Use our Journey Planner to compare ticket prices and find the cheapest fares.

What do people frequently ask about the train journey from Chelmsford to Ely?

Want to know more about your journey from Chelmsford to Ely? We've compiled some of the most frequently asked questions by our customers to help you plan your journey.

How do you get to Ely from Chelmsford?

To travel to Ely from Chelmsford, you can take the train - on average, the journey takes around 3 hours and 42 minutes, though the fastest trains can take 2 hours and 2 minutes. Use our Journey Planner to get more information.

How long is the train ride from Chelmsford to Ely?

Trains from Chelmsford to Ely take an average of 3 hours and 42 minutes, although on the fastest services it can take just 2 hours and 2 minutes. You'll usually find 80 trains per day on this route, so use our Journey Planner to check specific dates as times may vary.

What is the quickest journey time between Chelmsford and Ely by train?

The quickest journey time between Chelmsford and Ely by train is 2 hours and 2 minutes.

Are there direct trains from Chelmsford to Ely?

No, there are no direct trains running from Chelmsford to Ely, you’ll usually need to make at least 1 change during the journey.

How do I find cheap train tickets from Chelmsford to Ely?

As most UK train companies increase their prices as the departure date approaches, our Trainline team of experts have put together these tips to help you find the cheapest tickets.

1. Sign up to Ticket Alert

If you're planning a trip more than 12 weeks ahead, sign up to our Ticket Alert to get notified when Advance tickets are released for your travel date.

2. Use a Railcard

National Railcards offer a 1/3 off eligible train tickets in the UK and can be a great investment if you travel throughout the year. Buy one with us and you'll be able to store it digitally in our app, so you'll always have it on your travels.

3. Book split tickets

Our handy feature SplitSave will 'split' your train journey into multiple tickets, which can be much cheaper than buying a single ticket. Find out more about split tickets.

4. Travel Off-Peak

If you can be flexible with your travel times, Off-Peak and Super Off-Peak tickets are usually cheaper in the UK. Generally, Off-Peak times are any time at weekends and outside of Monday to Friday morning and evening rush hours.

5. Consider a Season Ticket

Best for commuters, if you catch a train on the same route more than 3 times per week, you could save money with a Season Ticket. With annual, monthly, weekly and flexi options available, find out if a Season Ticket for Chelmsford to Ely is right for you.

For more money-saving tips on UK and European train travel, read our cheap train tickets guide.

§Advance adult single fare. Excludes booking fee. Prices seen by Trainline customers in the last 30 days. Availability limited.
† Average savings on advance fares booked at least one week before day of travel vs Anytime fares purchased on day of travel. Subject to availability. Excludes coach.

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