Opened in 1854 as part of the London, Tilbury and Southend Railway, Grays station serves the Essex town of Grays in the borough of Thurrock - the station was originally known as Grays Thurrock. It underwent major refurbishment in the mid-2000s, when a new subway was built linking its three platforms. Situated on the Tilbury Loop, Grays is something of a commuter hub, with regular passenger services to Fenchurch Street in London, as well as Rainham, Ockendon, Southend and Shoeburyness in Essex.
Grays has several claims to fame - it is the birthplace of comedian Russell Brand, and featured in the diary of Samuel Pepys. The town also made an appearance in a number of major films, including Four Weddings and a Funeral and Who Framed Roger Rabbit. Its main shopping area is on the north side of the station, and a short walk south will bring you to Grays Beach Riverside Park, on the banks of the Thames.