Is there a direct train?

No, you must change at Marks Tey or Colchester.

How long is the drive?

Typically 75 minutes depending on traffic.

Is parking expensive in Ipswich?

Council-run car parks are reasonably priced compared to London.

National Express operates coaches, but they are slower than driving.

Yes, the A12 passes through the beautiful Suffolk countryside.

Stansted

Ipswich

Train Driving

Stansted to Ipswich

Updated: 31 May 2026

The journey from Stansted to Ipswich covers approximately 85 kilometers through the heart of Essex and Suffolk. Driving via the A120 and A12 is the most direct road route, typically taking 75 minutes depending on traffic near Colchester. Alternatively, rail travel involves a change at Marks Tey or Colchester, utilizing the Greater Anglia network. This route traverses the scenic Dedham Vale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. You will find the journey relatively straightforward with well-signposted major trunk roads.

Total Distance: 85 km driving distance; 68 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving via the A120 and A12 takes approximately 75 minutes, beating the train by 30 minutes.

Cheapest Way

Driving is generally cheapest for groups of two or more, costing roughly 20 GBP in fuel.

Compare Stansted to Ipswich Routes

	Train Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	1 hour 45 mins	1 hour 15 mins
Avg Price	18-35 GBP	15-25 GBP in fuel
Operator	Greater Anglia	N/A
Route	Stansted Airport Station to Marks Tey, change for Ipswich.	A120 east to Braintree, then A12 north towards Ipswich.
Tip	Book tickets in advance via the Greater Anglia app for significant savings.	Avoid the A12 during peak rush hours near Colchester to save 20 minutes.

Travel Tips

Advance Booking
Always purchase train tickets at least 48 hours early to secure Advance fares.
Traffic Awareness
Check Google Maps for A12 congestion before departing, especially on Friday afternoons.
Parking
Use the Crown Car Park in Ipswich for central access to the shopping district.
Station Facilities
Stansted Airport station has excellent amenities, but smaller stations like Marks Tey have limited services.
Off-Peak Travel
Travel after 09:30 on weekdays to benefit from cheaper off-peak rail tickets.

Safety Tips

Road Safety
The A120 has several roundabouts; maintain a safe following distance during wet weather.
Personal Belongings
Keep your luggage in sight at all times when changing trains at busy interchanges.
Emergency Contacts
Save the local non-emergency police number in your phone before starting your journey.
Night Travel
If driving late, ensure your headlights are clean as rural sections of the A12 have limited lighting.