Felixstowe
Felixstowe
Chelmsford
Chelmsford
Train Driving

Felixstowe to Chelmsford

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Felixstowe to Chelmsford is approximately 45 miles. By train, you travel to Ipswich and then take a service toward London, alighting at Chelmsford. By car, the route follows the A14 and A12, which are the primary roads connecting the region. Chelmsford is the county town of Essex and a major retail hub. The drive is generally straightforward, though the A12 can be busy during peak hours.

Total Distance: 72 km driving distance, 55 km straight-line air distance.
Fastest Way
Driving, taking approximately 1 hour.
Cheapest Way
Driving, especially if traveling with passengers.
Compare Felixstowe to Chelmsford Routes
Train
Connecting
Driving
Direct
Duration 1 hour 20 mins 1 hour
Avg Price £20 - £35 £15 - £20 in fuel
Operator Greater Anglia Personal Vehicle
Route Felixstowe to Ipswich, then Ipswich to Chelmsford. A14 and A12.
Tip Check the departure boards at Ipswich for the correct platform. The A12 is the main route; expect potential congestion near Colchester.
Travel Tips
  • Train Tickets
    Book in advance to save money on your train fare.
  • A12 Traffic
    Check live traffic updates before you start your drive.
  • Parking
    Use the city center car parks for easy access to shops.
  • Walking
    Chelmsford city center is compact and easy to walk around.
  • Station Access
    Chelmsford station is a short walk from the main shopping area.
Safety Tips
  • Road Safety
    The A12 is a busy road; stay alert and keep a safe distance.
  • Station Safety
    Keep your belongings secure in busy stations.
  • Night Travel
    If walking at night, stick to well-lit main streets.
  • Emergency
    Chelmsford has a hospital and police station in the city center.
People Also Ask
  • Is there a direct train?
    No, you must change at Ipswich.
  • How long is the drive?
    About 1 hour, depending on traffic.
  • Is Chelmsford a city?
    Yes, it was granted city status recently.
  • Where can I park?
    There are several council-run car parks.
  • Are there buses?
    Yes, but they are slower than the train.
Quick Info
  • From Felixstowe, Suffolk, United Kingdom
  • To Chelmsford, Essex, United Kingdom
  • Modes
Best Time to Travel

Spring and Autumn for pleasant shopping and city exploration.

Things to Do in Chelmsford
1
Chelmsford Cathedral
A beautiful historic building in the center of the city. It is a peaceful place to visit.
2
Hylands Estate
A grand house and parkland on the edge of the city, perfect for walking and events.
3
Bond Street
A modern shopping area with high-end stores and restaurants.
4
Chelmsford Museum
Learn about the local history and the city's role in radio technology.
Tags
Felixstowe to Chelmsford train to Chelmsford driving to Chelmsford A12 road Greater Anglia Essex travel Suffolk to Essex Chelmsford station fastest route travel guide