Is there a direct train?

No, you must change at Thorpe-le-Soken.

How long is the drive?

Approximately 80 to 100 minutes depending on traffic.

Are dogs allowed on trains?

Yes, up to two dogs are permitted for free on Greater Anglia trains.

Is parking expensive in Brentwood?

Council car parks offer reasonable daily rates compared to London.

Does the A12 have tolls?

No, the A12 is a toll-free trunk road.

Walton on the Naze

Brentwood

Train Driving

Walton on the Naze to Brentwood

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from the coastal town of Walton on the Naze to the commuter hub of Brentwood covers approximately 85 kilometers. You will primarily utilize the Greater Anglia rail network, requiring a change at Thorpe-le-Soken. The route traverses the heart of Essex, passing through Colchester and Chelmsford. Expect a travel time of roughly 90 minutes depending on connection wait times. This route is a vital link between the North Sea coast and the London commuter belt.

Total Distance: Driving distance 85 km, straight-line air distance 72 km.

Fastest Way

Driving via the A12, taking roughly 80 minutes in light traffic.

Cheapest Way

Train using an off-peak return ticket, costing approximately 25 GBP.

Compare Walton on the Naze to Brentwood Routes

	Train Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	1 hour 30 mins	1 hour 20 mins
Avg Price	25-40 GBP	15-20 GBP fuel
Operator	Greater Anglia	N/A
Route	Walton-on-the-Naze to Thorpe-le-Soken, then change for Brentwood.	B1034 to A120, then merge onto A12 southbound.
Tip	Purchase an Advance ticket online to save up to 50 percent on walk-up fares.	Avoid the A12 during morning rush hour near Chelmsford to prevent significant delays.

Travel Tips

Railcard
Use a Network Railcard to get one-third off your train fare.
Off-Peak
Travel after 09:30 on weekdays to benefit from cheaper off-peak pricing.
Parking
Use the station car park in Walton for secure long-stay parking.
Connectivity
Check the Greater Anglia app for real-time platform updates.
Booking
Book tickets at least one week in advance for the best rates.

Safety Tips

Platform Safety
Stand behind the yellow line at all times while waiting for trains.
Night Travel
Stick to well-lit areas when walking from Brentwood station at night.
Road Conditions
Be cautious of heavy goods vehicles on the A12 during wet weather.
Valuables
Keep your belongings secure in crowded train carriages.