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Rayleigh to Colchester by train

First train

04:16

Last train

23:16

Departure station

Rayleigh

Arrival station

Colchester

Journey time

From 55m

Distance

25 miles (40 km)

Frequency

81 trains per day

Changes

1 change

Train operators

Greater Anglia

Taking the train from Rayleigh to Colchester in 55 minutes

Thinking about taking the train from Rayleigh to Colchester? We've got you covered.

It usually takes around 1 hour 11 minutes to travel the 25 miles (40 km) from Rayleigh to Colchester by train, although you can get there in as little as 55 minutes on the fastest services. You'll normally find around 81 trains per day running on this route. You'll need to make 1 change along the way as there aren't any direct services on this line. As the main train operator on this route, you'll probably be travelling with Greater Anglia for all or at least part of your journey to Colchester.

Book train tickets from Rayleigh to Colchester in advance instead of buying them on the day and you'll snap up the cheapest fares. We'll always highlight the cheapest prices in our Journey Planner, for example when you travel at Off-Peak times or use a Railcard.

If you're feeling ready to book, start looking for cheap train tickets with us today. Keep reading for more information on the journey to Colchester by train, or check our timetable above to view live train times.

Journey details

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

How long does the train from Rayleigh to Colchester take?

The average journey time by train between Rayleigh and Colchester is 1 hour and 11 minutes, with around 81 trains per day. The journey time may be longer on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner on this page to search for a specific travel date.

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

The fastest journey time by train from Rayleigh to Colchester is 55 minutes.

Is there a direct train from Rayleigh to Colchester?

No, there are no direct train services from Rayleigh to Colchester. Travelling from Rayleigh to Colchester by train will require a minimum of 1 change.

What time does the first train from Rayleigh to Colchester leave?

The first train from Rayleigh to Colchester leaves at 04:16. Times and services may vary during weekends and holidays.

What time does the last train from Rayleigh to Colchester leave?

The last train from Rayleigh to Colchester leaves at 23:16. Trains that depart in the early morning hours or very late evening may be sleeper services, time and services may also vary during weekends and holidays.

What's the distance between Rayleigh and Colchester by train?

Trains travelling from Rayleigh to Colchester cover a distance of around 25 miles (40 km) during the journey.

Looking for more information?

If you’re looking for the return train journey, check out trains from Colchester to Rayleigh.

Cheap train tickets from Rayleigh to Colchester

Book in advance

Look out for Advance tickets – they usually come out up to 12 weeks before the departure date and can be cheaper than buying on the day. If you’re here a tad early, sign up for our Advance ticket alert today to get notified when your tickets are released.

Consider a Season Ticket

If you catch this train more than 3 times per week, you could save money with a Season Ticket. With annual, monthly and weekly options available, find out if a season ticket for Rayleigh to Colchester is right for you.

Use your Railcard

National Railcards offer a 1/3 off eligible train tickets in the UK and can be a great investment if you travel a few times or more in a year. Find out how you can save with a National Railcard here.

Split your tickets

Download our app to find split tickets — courtesy of SplitSave, our handy feature which 'splits' your train tickets where possible to find you a better deal. Learn more about the clever tech behind split tickets, and how to spot SplitSave discounts in our app.

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

† 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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