Collins was born in Oxwich, Glamorgan, Wales, and educated at Rugby School (1829–33) and Jesus College, Oxford (matriculating in 1833, obtaining a BA in Literae Humaniores in 1838 and his MA in 1840). He was ordained in 1840 and held the living of Cheriton, Glamorgan from 1840 until 1867. He also held positions as curate of Great Houghton, Northamptonshire (1853 to 1862), a diocesan inspector of education, rector of Lowick (1873 to his death) and vicar of Slipton, Northamptonshire (1876 to his death). He was an honorary Canon of Peterborough Cathedral from 1870.

He was a writer in addition, contributing articles on university life and public schools to Blackwood's Magazine. He also edited volumes on Homer's Iliad and Thucydides for the publisher John Blackwood's series Ancient Classics for English Readers.

Collins died in Lowick rectory in 1887.