Orpington
Orpington
Chelmsford
Chelmsford
Train Driving

Orpington to Chelmsford

Updated: 28 May 2026

Chelmsford is located 70 km from Orpington. The most practical rail route is to travel to London Bridge or Victoria, then take the train from Liverpool Street to Chelmsford. By car, the route follows the M25 and A12, which is efficient but can be congested. Chelmsford is a major commercial hub and the county town of Essex.

Total Distance: 70 km driving distance; 60 km straight-line distance.
Fastest Way
Driving is faster outside of peak hours.
Cheapest Way
Train travel is generally the most cost-effective.
Compare Orpington to Chelmsford Routes
Train
Connecting
Driving
Direct
Duration 1 hour 30 mins 1 hour 10 mins
Avg Price 20-40 GBP 20-30 GBP
Operator Greater Anglia N/A
Route Orpington to London, then train from Liverpool Street to Chelmsford. M25 and A12 motorway.
Tip The train journey from Liverpool Street is very convenient. Parking in Chelmsford is very limited; use the city centre car parks.
Travel Tips
  • Station Access
    Chelmsford station is a short walk from the city centre.
  • Booking
    Book your train tickets in advance.
  • Parking
    Use the city centre car parks.
  • Traffic
    Avoid the A12 during rush hour.
  • Tickets
    Use contactless for local travel.
Safety Tips
  • Night Safety
    Stay in well-lit areas at night.
  • Road Safety
    The A12 is a busy road; stay alert.
  • Emergency
    Local medical services are available.
  • Personal Belongings
    Keep your bag secure.
People Also Ask
  • Is there a direct train from Orpington?
    No, you must change in London.
  • How long is the drive?
    Typically 70 minutes.
  • Is Chelmsford a good place to visit?
    Yes, it is a world-class tourist destination.
  • What is the best way to travel?
    Train is very convenient.
  • Are there buses to Chelmsford?
    Yes, but they are slower.
Quick Info
  • From Orpington, Greater London, United Kingdom
  • To Chelmsford, Essex, United Kingdom
  • Modes
Best Time to Travel

Any time of year, but especially in summer for the parks.

Things to Do in Chelmsford
1
Chelmsford Cathedral
Visit the historic cathedral in the heart of the city.
2
Hylands Park
Enjoy a walk in the large park.
3
Chelmsford Museum
See the collection of local history.
4
High Chelmer
Shop and dine at the large shopping centre.
Tags
Orpington to Chelmsford train driving to Chelmsford A12 route to Chelmsford Chelmsford travel guide London to Chelmsford train fastest way to Chelmsford cheap train tickets Chelmsford Orpington transport