London
London
Colchester
Colchester
Train Driving

London to Colchester

Updated: 29 May 2026

The distance from London E4 to Colchester is approximately 80 km. You can reach Colchester by driving via the A12 or by taking a train from London Liverpool Street. The journey takes about 60 to 90 minutes. Colchester is Britain's oldest recorded town, offering a wealth of history, modern shopping, and cultural attractions.

Total Distance: 80 km driving, 70 km air distance.
Fastest Way
Driving.
Cheapest Way
Train.
Compare London to Colchester Routes
Train
Connecting
Driving
Direct
Duration 80 mins 75 mins
Avg Price 15-25 GBP 15 GBP fuel
Operator Greater Anglia N/A
Route Bus to Stratford, then Greater Anglia to Colchester. A12.
Tip Colchester station is a major hub on the Greater Anglia line. Traffic can be heavy on the A12 during rush hour.
Travel Tips
  • Parking
    There are several large car parks in Colchester city center.
  • Transport
    Greater Anglia provides a fast link to central London.
  • Walking
    The city center is very walkable.
  • Dining
    Colchester has a wide range of restaurants and cafes.
  • Cycling
    The area is cycle-friendly.
Safety Tips
  • Road Safety
    Be careful when crossing busy roads in the city center.
  • Personal Safety
    The city center is generally safe, but stay aware at night.
  • Emergency
    Dial 999 for emergencies.
  • Walking
    Stick to well-lit areas at night.
People Also Ask
  • Is Colchester the oldest town in Britain?
    Yes, it is widely considered to be.
  • How long is the train to London?
    About 50 minutes to Liverpool Street.
  • Is Colchester a nice place to live?
    Yes, it is popular for its history and schools.
  • Are there good schools in Colchester?
    Yes, there are several highly-rated schools.
  • Can I use an Oyster card in Colchester?
    No, it is outside the TfL zone.
Quick Info
  • From London, England, United Kingdom
  • To Colchester, Essex, United Kingdom
  • Modes
Best Time to Travel

Year-round.

Things to Do in Colchester
1
Colchester Castle
A historic castle built on the foundations of a Roman temple.
2
Colchester Zoo
One of the best zoos in the UK, home to a wide variety of animals.
3
Hollytrees Museum
A fascinating museum showcasing the history of Colchester.
4
Firstsite
A contemporary art gallery with a unique architectural design.
Tags
London E4 to Colchester Chingford to Colchester driving to Colchester Colchester travel Essex commute London to Colchester local travel Colchester station