London Liverpool Street to Clacton-on-Sea Trains From £7.85*

The journey from London Liverpool Street to Clacton-on-Sea takes about 1 hour 30 minutes on Greater Anglia's direct trains.

The route is mainly rural and crosses the windswept Essex countryside. There are a few urban spots, too, including Stratford in London, Chelmsford and Colchester. As you approach the coast, you'll spot barren marshes and eventually the North Sea.

Greater Anglia connects London with the east of England, running trains to Norfolk, Cambridgeshire and the Essex coast. Aside from seaside towns like Clacton, it also operates services to cities like Norwich and Cambridge.

Departing from London Liverpool Street

Liverpool Street station is on the edge of the City of London, close to Barbican, Shoreditch and Whitechapel. You can even walk from attractions like the Tower of London and St Paul's, while the bars and restaurants of Shoreditch are also a short stroll away.

The Central, Metropolitan, Hammersmith & City and Circle lines all stop here if you're coming from further afield. Several bus routes stop outside, too. Greater Anglia, c2c, London Overground and the Elizabeth Line are the main rail operators with destinations including Cambridge, Norwich, Stansted Airport and towns all along the Essex coast.

Main stops

The main stops on the London to Clacton-on-Sea line are Stratford, Chelmsford, Witham, Colchester and Thorpe-le-Soken.

Arriving at Clacton-on-Sea

Clacton station is about a 10-minute walk from the seafront and pier. Head down Station Road and you'll hit the town centre and the seafront. The station's right in the heart of things, so you won't need a taxi unless you've got heavy bags.

Local buses run from outside the concourse if you want to explore nearby spots like Frinton-on-Sea or Walton-on-the-Naze.

Greater Anglia is the only operator here, with trains back to London and local services along the Sunshine Coast line. Some trains continue to Walton-on-the-Naze for those who want to explore more of the Essex coastline.

Greater Anglia train classes

On the Clacton route, Greater Anglia runs Standard Class only. On newer trains, there's free Wi-Fi and plug sockets at every seat, so you can stay connected and arrive fully charged for your day at the seaside.

Greater Anglia train travel advice

Here's what you need to know for your Greater Anglia journey from London to Clacton:

• Luggage: Pop your bags in the overhead racks or the spaces near the doors. Just make sure they're not blocking the aisles or exits.
• Bicycles: If you fancy some cycling along the East Anglian coast, you'll be pleased to know bikes are allowed on off-peak Greater Anglia trains for free. Bikes aren't allowed on trains leaving London Liverpool Street between 17:00 and 19:00, Monday to Friday.
• Children: You can take your kids for a budget-friendly day out on the beach at Clacton-on-Sea. Little ones under 5 go free and kids aged 5–15 travel half price. Consider the Friends & Family railcard for even more savings.
• Pets: You can take your dog for long walks on the Clacton-on-Sea beach. Up to 2 pets are allowed for free as long as they don't sit on seats or on tables. Dogs need to be on a lead and small animals in a container.
• Passenger Assistance: If you need help getting on or off the train, book Passenger Assistance before you travel online, through the app or over the phone. 

*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.