Things to do in Barking

Find and book activities, attractions and tours

Melrose church and bench on quiet Sunday
Melrose church and bench on quiet Sunday
Historic All Hallows-by-the-Tower or St. Mary the Virgin or All Hallows Barking - an ancient Anglican church on Byward Street in City of London.
Barking
Town Square and Arboretum A new development comprising a learning centre and library, framed by colonnades and topped by two parallel housing blocks with a wooded public square. RIBA Award Winner, 2011. Architects: AHMM and Muf. Date: 2007. Nearest Station: Barking.
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Barking must see attractions

1. Hyde Park

Hyde Park is one of London’s largest and most well-known parks. The park connects with Kensington Gardens and the two combined cover 630 acres (253 hectares). Together they form the centrepiece of a network of parks known as “London’s Green Lung.” Once the private hunting grounds of King Henry VIII, today the park is filled with heritage sites, monuments and events to attend all year-round.
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Hyde Park featuring a garden, a river or creek and watersports

2. Tower Bridge

For London locals, Tower Bridge is a vital part of the city’s infrastructure, ushering 40,000 vehicles safely across the Thames daily. However, for many visitors, the sight of the dual Gothic towers rising above the skyline is a must-see.
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Tower Bridge featuring heritage architecture, a bridge and a bay or harbor

3. Buckingham Palace

The official home of British royalty since 1837, Buckingham Palace is the epicenter of Britain’s constitutional monarchy. It’s walls have witnessed innumerable state decrees, lavish banquets and foreign dignitary receptions.
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Buckingham Palace, Westminster, London

4. O2 Arena

O2 Arena was originally called the Millennium Dome. It was created to celebrate the beginning of the new millennium. Completed in 1999, The Dome initially housed the Millennium Experience, an exhibition consisting of exhibits, shows and entertainment honoring humankind’s achievements. The Dome’s vast interior has since been remodeled and today is one of London’s premier entertainment destinations.
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O2 Arena which includes a river or creek and modern architecture

5. Big Ben

Catch a glimpse of Big Ben across the River Thames and you’ll know you have truly arrived in London. Featured in British films, such as “Bridget Jones’s Diary,” “Notting Hill” and “Love Actually,” Big Ben is best viewed from the Thames’ east bank or while strolling along Westminster Bridge, on route to see the Houses of Parliament.
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Majestic Big Ben and Houses of Parliament by the River Thames in London during a clear day

6. Piccadilly Circus

Piccadilly Circus garnered its peculiar name from Roger Baker, a tailor famous for making men’s piccadills, the frilled collars fashionable in the 17th century. The word “circus” refers to the circular motion of traffic, which whisks around beneath the statue of the Greek god Anteros. Today, the name represents flashing lights, entertainment and the exuberance of a city on the move. Piccadilly Circus has become a must-see spectacle, which draws locals and tourists day and night.
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London featuring a city, street scenes and heritage elements

7. London Bridge

London Bridge is easily one of the most famously named bridges in the world, and the site of the oldest recorded crossing of the River Thames. Walk across the landmark structure, enjoy gorgeous river views and pick up insights into the bridge’s history in its underground vaults.
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The view across London Bridge showing the walkie talkie (voted the ugliest building in the UK) the gherkin and the razor.

8. The British Museum

With a collection of nearly 8 million artifacts gathered from every continent, it’s unlikely even the most seasoned museum-goer can absorb the British Museum in a single day. But don’t let the museum’s size deter you even if you only have a few hours. It’s well worth the visit.
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The British Museum featuring interior views as well as a large group of people

What to do in Barking

Discover the most popular places to visit in Barking

Hyde Park featuring a city, a garden and a pond

Hyde Park

4.5/5(4,529 reviews)

Once the private hunting grounds of a king, London's most famous park is today a place where everyone can enjoy gardens, monuments and music performances.

Hyde Park
Tower Bridge which includes night scenes, heritage architecture and a river or creek

Tower Bridge

4.5/5(3,801 reviews)

An engineering marvel, this London icon spans both the River Thames and the ages.

Tower Bridge
Buckingham Palace in London with visitors exploring the historic landmark on a clear day

Buckingham Palace

4.5/5(4,742 reviews)

Britain’s most famous home, the luxurious personal residence and workplace of Queen Elizabeth II, is open to all.

Buckingham Palace
O2 Arena showing modern architecture

O2 Arena

4.5/5(588 reviews)

Created as the focal point of Britain’s millennium celebrations, today this architectural wonder offers a world of entertainment under one enormous roof.

O2 Arena
The stadium in the sunset in london.; Shutterstock ID 2698953

Wembley Stadium

4.5/5(355 reviews)

Catch an event at Wembley Stadium during your trip to Wembley. Stroll along the riverfront or visit the notable monuments in this vibrant area.

Wembley Stadium
Majestic Big Ben and Houses of Parliament by the River Thames in London during a clear day

Big Ben

3.5/5(4,358 reviews)

One of London’s most resounding landmarks is a treasured emblem of England.

Big Ben
Vibrant atmosphere and bustling crowds at Piccadilly Circus in London during a sunny day

Piccadilly Circus

4.5/5(3,785 reviews)

Often billed as the British version of Times Square, this iconic traffic hub is the perfect starting point for your London adventure.

Piccadilly Circus
London Bridge showing a city

London Bridge

4.5/5(2,076 reviews)

Known for its association with a well-known nursery rhyme, this iconic bridge has existed in various forms for more than 2,000 years.

London Bridge
Visitors enjoying the surroundings of the British Museum in London on a sunny day

The British Museum

4.5/5(1,987 reviews)

Originally created as a “cabinet of curiosities,” Britain’s oldest museum has grown into a treasure house of humanity’s greatest achievements.

The British Museum

Popular day trips from Barking

Piccadilly Circus featuring a city, city views and street scenes

London

London, England, UK - September 04, 2022: Tower of St Margaret's Parish Church Barking Abbey. London Borough of barking and Dagenham GB UK

Dagenham

Ilford East London Aerial drone view high angle

Ilford

Frequently asked questions

Is Barking worth visiting?
Barking offers a unique blend of attractions, local charm and culture. Whether you're into outdoor activities, history or local culinary flavors, there's plenty to enjoy here.
How do I spend a day in Barking?
London Eye and Trafalgar Square are two excellent places to begin your sightseeing adventures. Be sure to check out the shopping and dining options in Barking while you're here too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Barking?
Don't go home without exploring London Eye, rated the top tourist attraction in Barking.
Is three days enough to stay in Barking?
Three days in Barking is more than enough to visit the city's major attractions. Many travelers stay for three days on average. IFS Cloud Royal Docks Station, IFS Cloud Greenwich Peninsula Station and Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance are top-rated sights. Want to discover more? Hang around a while longer to visit nearby hotspots such as London.
Is Barking a walkable city?
Some leading sights in Barking, such as Brick Lane Music Hall and Kenneth More Theatre, are within walking distance. You can also visit several of the city's popular neighborhoods on foot. Just 3 kilometers from the city center of Barking is Newham and Custom House is 5 kilometers away.
What are some activities to do in Barking with kids?
Whether you're vacationing with hard-to-please teens or tiny adventurers, an itinerary filled with fun activities sets the tone for a great escape. Browse our ideas for what to do in Barking with kids.

What to do in Barking for adults?
Beefeater Gin Distillery and Liverpool Street are just a few of the things to do in Barking. With lots of activities available, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Barking?
From relaxing in parks to wandering around exciting neighborhoods, it's easy to find free things to do in Barking. If you're looking for inspiration, ask a local tour guide for recommendations. William Morris Gallery is a great spot for anyone wanting to save on their traveling adventures.