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c2c

c2c is a small rail operator running routes between Essex and London.

Who are c2c?

c2c operates trains around Essex into London Fenchurch Street. They’ve been running on these routes since 1996, though the brand was known as ‘LTS Rail’ for the first few years.

They run a fleet of 74 Electrostar trains and serve 28 stations. 25 of these are c2c stations, which they operate.

As of December 2023, they’re also introducing a new fleet of Aventra trains. You’ll find these on Peak services, and on the Ockendon Line on Saturdays.

On board services

Luggage

Overhead racks are available for small items and backpacks.

Travel with children

Tables are available in selected carriages. On an 8-coach train head for coaches 1, 4, 5 or 8 for a table seat.

Bikes

Bikes are accepted with no need for a reservation. Restrictions apply at peak times travelling to and from London Fenchurch Street. Folding bikes are accepted on all trains. There’s more information in our dedicated guide to travelling with bikes.

Pets

Up to two dogs, cats or other small domestic animals can travel free in both Standard and 1st Class.

Special Assistance

You can find out more about Passenger Assist on our dedicated page.

Standard Class

c2c operates just one type of train on the vast majority of their services, which is the Electrostar. They all have four carriages, but can run in formations up to 12 carriages.

The seating layout inside of the trains can vary. All of them originally had seats in a 3+2 layout. In recent years, some were converted to a ‘Metro’ layout. In these ‘Metro’ trains, the seats are in a 2+2 layout with a wider aisle. Here’s what a train with the ‘original’ layout is like:

There aren’t any power sockets on board, nor are there any seat reservations.

They’ve recently (as of November 2023) introduced a small number of Aventra trains. They have seating in a 2+2 layout and power sockets at every seat.

Can I upgrade to First Class?

First Class isn’t offered on c2c. The closest you can get to it is by sitting in the seats behind the drivers cab on some trains. These seats are in a 2+2 layout and have a full-sized table.

Information about routes

  • Shoeburyness to London Fenchurch Street (via Basildon)
  • Grays to London Fenchurch Street (via Purfleet).
  • Southend Central to London Fenchurch Street (via Tilbury).