The river has been used for recreation as well as commercial activities. In the 17th century, Pepys visited an inn close to Tilbury Fort. The gardens at Purfleet were a regular destination for 18th century tourists from London. In the 20th century, small sailing boats became a frequent sight at Grays.

The society sells a souvenir tea towel that has illustrations of five riverside inns and a leaflet with a short history of each of them. It costs £3 and can be ordered from publications@thurrock-history.org.uk