- Recommended
Southend Central Museum and Planetarium
Museum beside Prittlewell Priory covering local archaeology, social history and natural history. A strong introduction to Southend and Essex.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Grays to Southend-on-Sea
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 18 Sept
Cheapest price on 18 Sept
£7
Average ticket price on 18 Sept
£7
Fastest journey on 18 Sept
33 m
Average journey duration on 18 Sept
37 m
Trains on 18 Sept
3
Distance
28 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Grays to Southend-on-Sea is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Grays to Southend-on-Sea will cost around £7 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £7.
Fast trains
On Fri 18 Sept, we found 3 trains from Grays to Southend-on-Sea, including 3 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 28 km distance in an average of 37 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 33 m .
The slowest trains will take 42 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
0:180h36Grays0:54Southend-on-Sea£71One-way0 changes- 1:070h33Grays1:40Southend-on-Sea£71One-way0 changes
- 7:070h42Grays7:49Southend-on-Sea£81One-way0 changes
- 1:070h33Grays1:40Southend-on-Sea£71One-way0 changes
- 0:180h36Grays0:54Southend-on-Sea£71One-way0 changes
- 7:070h42Grays7:49Southend-on-Sea£81One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare coach and train for Grays to Southend-on-Sea
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Grays to Southend-on-Sea among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of £11 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 1h 7m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of £11, while a train costs an average of £11.
Distance: 28 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|
£11 Average Price Cheapest | £7 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 7m Average total duration Fastest 37m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 44m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Grays to Southend-on-Sea is a train with an average price of £11.
The fastest way to travel from Grays to Southend-on-Sea is by train with an average journey time of 37m.
Other travel options to Southend-on-Sea take longer:
Coach takes on average 1h 47m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Grays and Southend-on-Sea including taking a coach and train.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 7m sooner (37m by train vs 44m by car). Tickets start at around £11 compared to roughly £7 in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Direct services run with c2c.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Grays to Southend-on-Sea train times
The table below shows live departures for Grays to Southend-on-Sea trains for today, Thursday 17 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:07 Grays | 0h42 | 8:49 Southend-on-Sea | 0 changesdirect | |
| Friday 18 September | |||||
| 0:18 Grays | 0h36 | 0:54 Southend-on-Sea | 0 changesdirect | |
| 1:07 Grays | 0h33 | 1:40 Southend-on-Sea | 0 changesdirect | |
| 7:07 Grays | 0h42 | 7:49 Southend-on-Sea | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Grays to Southend-on-Sea by coach or train
Compare coach and train prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Fri
18 Sept
18 Sept
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19 Sept
19 Sept
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20 Sept
20 Sept
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21 Sept
21 Sept
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22 Sept
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24 Sept
24 Sept
Why should you book Grays to Southend-on-Sea trains with Omio?
c2c operates all trains services from Grays to Southend-on-Sea.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Grays to Southend-on-Sea.
Why book with Omio vs c2c?
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare c2c with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Grays to Southend-on-Sea.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Grays to Southend-on-Sea.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Grays to Southend-on-Sea
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Grays to Southend-on-Sea run on average 7 times per day, taking around 37m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £11 if you book in advance.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:02, the last at 23:42. The fastest train covers the 28 km distance in 36m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Distance 28 km |
Average train duration 37m |
Cheapest ticket price £11 |
Trains per day 7 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 36m |
First train 0:02 |
Last train 23:42 |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 7 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Train companies: c2c from Grays to Southend-on-Sea trainsc2c trains will get you between Grays and Southend-on-Sea from £11. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
c2c
About
c2c is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London Fenchurch Street to destinations in East London and Essex, including Southend, Basildon, and Grays. c2c offers a range of train types, including the Class 357 Electrostar, Class 312 Electrostar, and Class 315 Electrostar. These trains are modern and comfortable, with air conditioning, power sockets, and free Wi-Fi. c2c also offers a range of ticket types, including Anytime, Off-Peak, and Advance tickets. Onboard facilities include a café bar, toilets, and luggage storage. The most popular routes for c2c are London Fenchurch Street to Southend Central, London Fenchurch Street to Basildon, and London Fenchurch Street to Grays.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average c2c Duration
36m
Cheapest c2c Price
£11
c2c frequency
25 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of hand luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas between seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Bar/bistro service available on most trains offering snacks, drinks, and light meals
Seat reservation
Seat reservations mandatory and included in ticket price for high-speed trains, optional for regional trains
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and assistance available for passengers with reduced mobility
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require paid ticket and muzzle, service animals free
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Southend-on-Sea
Things to do in Southend-on-Sea
Discover the best of Southend-on-Sea — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Southend-on-Sea trip today.
- Recommended
Prittlewell Priory
Historic house museum in Priory Park with restored rooms, monastic remains and displays on local life. Good for history and architecture.
Southend Pier Museum
Compact museum at the end of the pier exploring the pier’s engineering, railway and seaside heritage. Worth adding to a pier visit.
- Must visit
Southend Seafront
Popular beachfront promenade for walking, cycling and sea views, linking the pier, gardens and classic seaside attractions.
- Recommended
Old Leigh
Lively old fishing quarter with cobbled lanes, cockle sheds, pubs, small galleries and estuary views. Full of local character.
- Recommended
Priory Park
Large park with formal gardens, lake, play areas and the priory complex. A pleasant green space for walks near the centre.
Fish and chips
Freshly landed fish, usually cod or haddock, in batter with chips. A classic Essex seaside meal tied to Southend’s long pier and beachfront chippies.
- Gluten-free
Essex oysters
Briny native or rock oysters from the Thames Estuary area, traditionally eaten very fresh. They reflect the long shellfish heritage of the Essex coast.
Potted shrimps or local prawns
Sweet, delicate prawns from the nearby North Sea and estuary waters, often served simply with bread and butter. A long-standing local seafood favourite.
Food
Stylish restaurant in nearby Leigh-on-Sea focused on British seafood and seasonal cooking. Cosy, polished dining room with estuary character.
Osborne Bros
Historic seafront fish restaurant known for oysters, cockles and classic seafood. Traditional, no-frills atmosphere close to the beach.
The Peterboat
Popular seafood restaurant and fishmonger serving fresh local catch, shellfish and grilled fish. Smart but relaxed setting near the seafront.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for a UK seaside city. Dining and hotels cost less than London, but peak summer stays and seafront areas raise prices. Local buses and trains are standard UK-priced.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a basic meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is usual if service is not included. Round up taxi fares. Cafés and pubs do not require tips, but small change is appreciated.
First Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £6.00
To the city centre
Chalkwell -> Southend Central
- Distance
- 3 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Most local buses accept contactless payment, and First Bus Tap&Cap limits what you pay to the day ticket price.
- For travel across multiple bus operators, the Southend Octopus day ticket is available at £7.00 on participating services.
FAQs: Grays to Southend-on-Sea train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Grays to Southend-on-Sea by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Southend-on-Sea, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Grays to Southend-on-Sea can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £11, while the average price tends to be around £11.
The train journey from Grays to Southend-on-Sea covers a distance of 28 km and takes approximately 36m. Trains run 7 per day.
The train distance from Grays to Southend-on-Sea is 28 km.
The first train from Grays to Southend-on-Sea leaves at 0:02.
The last train from Grays to Southend-on-Sea departs at 23:42.
Trains from Grays to Southend-on-Sea run approximately 7 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Grays to Southend-on-Sea.
Yes, there is a direct train between Grays and Southend-on-Sea. The service operates 3 times per day, provided by c2c.
To get from Grays to Southend-on-Sea, you can choose from several travel options including coach and train.
There is no night train service from Grays to Southend-on-Sea.
The train station in Grays that goes to Southend-on-Sea is Grays station (GRY), and it arrives at Southend Central (SOC).
The cheapest way to get from Grays to Southend-on-Sea is by train, costing approximately £11.
Booking trains from Grays to Southend-on-Sea in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Grays to Southend-on-Sea offers views of the River Thames and some picturesque countryside, making it a relatively scenic route.
Yes, a day trip from Grays to Southend-on-Sea is feasible as the journey takes 36m with a distance of 28 km. Trains run frequently with 5 per day.
For a fulfilling experience in Southend-on-Sea, two to three days are ideal to explore its main attractions, including the longest pleasure pier in the world, Adventure Island amusement park, and the beautiful coastline.
Yes, you can take the train from Grays to Southend-on-Sea.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Grays and Southend-on-Sea
Most Grays to Southend-on-Sea trains use the Grays to Southend Central station pair. Use this guide to compare Grays and Southend-on-Sea train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Grays
Arrival train stations in Southend-on-Sea
Which Grays station do trains to Southend-on-Sea leave from?
Trains from Grays to Southend-on-Sea leave from Grays. The station is from Grays city centre at Grays station, High Street, Grays, Essex, RM17 6NQ.
GraysGrays station, High Street, Grays, Essex, RM17 6NQ+44 8450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Grays from Grays city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesExit the station via platforms 2/3 and turn left onto Crown Road: - If travelling towards Rainham/Upminster/London, use bus bay 1 - If travelling towards Tilbury/Southend, use bus bay 8
Grays train station facilities and services
Grays has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Grays.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Grays.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Grays. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 03457 44 44 22, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Grays: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Grays: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Grays: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: There are no lifts at the station, but step free access is available from Station Approach to platform 1 and Crown Road to platforms 2/3, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Which Southend-on-Sea station do trains from Grays arrive at?
Trains from Grays to Southend-on-Sea arrive at Southend Central. Southend Central is from Southend-on-Sea city centre.
Southend CentralSouthend Central station, Clifftown Road, Southend-on-Sea, Essex, SS1 1AB+44 8450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Southend Central from Southend-on-Sea city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesBus stops on Clifftown Road near The Last Public House
Southend Central train station facilities and services
Southend Central has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Southend Central.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Southend Central. ATMs are available at Southend Central.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Southend Central. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 03457 44 44 22, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Southend Central: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Southend Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Southend Central: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Most popular train connections from Grays
More options for your journey from Grays to Southend-on-Sea
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Southend-on-Sea and Grays
Most popular train connections to Southend-on-Sea
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