Chelmsford Park & Ride
Chelmsford Park & Ride from First Bus
First Bus are proud to operate Chelmsford Park & Ride services on behalf of Essex County Council. With two sites situated in easy-to-reach locations on the edge of the city, our Park & Ride services are your shortcut to effortless, breezy journeys into the heart of Chelmsford. Whether you're out to snag a bargain, relax in Central Park, or watch the cricket, we've got your back. No stress, no fuss - just a fast and frequent ride straight to wherever you need to be.
Why choose Chelmsford Park & Ride?
Skip the traffic, park for free, and ride into Chelmsford on fast, eco‑friendly buses – simple, smart travel made easy.
Wave goodbye to the hassle of hunting for a parking space! Park at one of our easy-to-reach sites just outside the city and hop aboard one of our modern, comfy, double-deck buses. It’s a smooth ride into the heart of Chelmsford - quick, convenient, and absolutely stress-free.
Forget the traffic jams and city parking fees! Enjoy a FREE, secure parking spot, then pay for your travel with the driver, and glide into Chelmsford in almost no time at all. It’s a win for your wallet and your schedule.
Feel good about the journey you’re taking. Each bus can take up to 75 cars off the road, so with every trip, you’re cutting down on congestion and reducing pollution. What could be better?
Park & Ride Locations:
We have two Park & Ride Locations in Chelmsford:
- Sandon Park & Ride - Maldon Road, CM2 7RU
- Chelmer Valley Park & Ride - Essex Regiment Way, CM3 3PR
Both sites are strategically placed for quick access to the city centre with loads of spaces and plenty of facilities.
Get Directions to Sandon Park & Ride Get Directions to Chelmer Valley Park & Ride
Bus Routes & Timetables
Our buses run frequently throughout the day, ensuring you can always catch one when you need it. Hit the links below to download your PDF timetables.
Prices
Find the right ticket for you! Whether you're travelling alone, or in a group, we have a ticket for everyone. All of our busses accept contactless payment for added ease.
- Adult Day: £3.10
- Adult off-peak: £2.60 (after midday)
- Child (5-18) Day: £1
- Group Day*: £5.20
- Concessionary Day: £1.60
- Mobility Pass Holders and Companions: £1.60 before 9am, and FREE thereafter
- Flexi: £34.10 (12 tickets for the price of 11)
*Group Day is valid for up to 2 adults and 3 children arriving in the same car.
You can grab your Park & Ride tickets in advance on the FREE First Bus App, easy peasy!
Tickets are available for purchase from the First Bus App and driver
How Park & Ride works
Drive
Travel to one of our easy to reach Park & Ride locations around Chelmsford and follow signs to the car park.
Park
Parking is free in any marked bay — all you need to do is pay for your bus journey.
Catch the Bus
Board one of our frequent, buses. Relax, sit back, and leave the traffic to us - it’s all part of the ride!
Keep hold of your ticket
You'll need it for your return journey and to scan at the barriers when you leave the car park.
Useful tools
Journey Planner
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Download the First Bus App
Travelling by bus on Chelmsford Park & Ride couldn't be easier!
Frequently Asked Questions
Looking for FAQs about a specific Park & Ride site? Head to that location’s dedicated page for more information.
Q: Can I use my Concessionary bus pass on the Park & Ride?
A: Travel is £1.60 return at all times, for holders of a valid Essex Concessionary Travel Scheme (ENCTS) Pass. Holders of disability related concessionary passes, and where eligible their companion, will only be charged £1.60 before 9am (Monday to Friday), otherwise can travel for free.
Q: How many can I have in my group?
A: Group tickets are for up to 2 adults and 3 children arriving in the same car.
Q: Can I take my dog/pet on the bus?
A: Disabled passengers are allowed to travel with their guide, assistance or hearing dog. The passenger must comply with any instructions given by the driver. The carrying of other dogs is allowed if they are well behaved.
Q: What should I do if I think I have left something on one of the Park & Ride buses?
A: Go into the site office or email essexparkandride@essex.gov.uk
Q: Can I walk up and use the Park & Ride?
A: Yes, you can walk to the site and pay on the bus.
Q: Can I drop off or pick someone up from the site without paying?
A: Yes, there is a 20 minute free period.
Q: Can I collect my vehicle after the site is closed?
A: Yes, the exit barriers will raise automatically out-of-hours to allow you to leave if you get back late.
Overnight parking is not permitted.
By entering the car park you are doing so at your own risk. Essex County Council shall not be held liable for injury to any person unless caused by the negligence of the Council nor for any theft or damage of whatever kind to any vehicle or its contents whilst in the car parks. All vehicles are parked at the owner's risk.
