Things to do in Barking

Activities, attractions and tours

The Tower Bridge at night with illuminated blue lights, a river in the foreground, and a city skyline in the background.
A nighttime cityscape with a prominent illuminated bridge and a river.
A multi-story residential building with yellow and beige facades, surrounded by other buildings.
A church with a tall steeple and a clock, surrounded by lush green trees and a grassy area with a bench.
A church with a tall steeple and a modern glass building nearby.

Things to do


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Top places to visit

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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A river with boats, a gazebo, and autumn trees.

2. Buckingham Palace

Since 1837, Buckingham Palace has been the home of British royalty. During these years, the palace walls have been the backdrop to political change and have seen many advances in society, as well as being used to welcome guests from all over the world. But the palace itself has remained constant as an emblem of the monarchy, admired by guests who flock here. In fact, it’s one of the world’s most visited spots.
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A classical fountain with statues, a golden angel, and a neoclassical building in the background.

3. Piccadilly Circus

Lying at the junction between Regent Street, Shaftesbury Avenue, Piccadilly and Haymarket, Piccadilly Circus is one of the busiest spots in the whole of central London. A hub for traffic of all kinds, it connects the key areas in the heart of the city, including Trafalgar Square, Soho, Chinatown and Leicester Square.
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A busy urban square with historic buildings, a prominent dome, and a clear blue sky.

4. Big Ben

When you spot Big Ben standing proud beside the River Thames, you couldn’t be anywhere else in the world other than London. One of the city’s best-loved icons, it is an immediately recognisable fixture of the London cityscape next to Westminster Bridge.
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The Houses of Parliament and Big Ben in London.

5. Tower Bridge

As many as 40,000 vehicles cross over Tower Bridge every single day, making it a key player in the city’s transport infrastructure – as well as a popular attraction for visitors, famed for its iconic Gothic towers.
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The Tower Bridge in London, featuring two towers, a central arch, and suspension cables.

6. The 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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A large stadium with a unique roof structure and multiple tall towers.

What to do in Barking


Stay near popular Barking attractions

Where to stay in Barking

Find the best Barking areas for the activities you enjoy most.

Thames

While you're in Thames, take in top sights like River Thames and jump on the metro at Barking Riverside Station to see more of the city.

Abbey

While you're in Abbey, take in top sights like Abbey Leisure Centre and jump on the metro at Barking L.T. Station to see more of the city.

Gascoigne

While there might not be top attractions in Gascoigne, you can explore the larger area and discover places like East Ham Leisure Centre and Docklands Equestrian Centre.

Longbridge

Even though there aren't top sights in Longbridge, you can explore the larger area and take in top sights like Exchange Ilford. Jump on the metro at Upney Underground Station to see more of the city.


 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 


 

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 flavours, 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 travellers 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 neighbourhoods on foot. Just 3 kilometres from the city centre of Barking is Newham and Custom House is 5 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Barking with kids?
Whether you're holidaying 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 neighbourhoods, 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 travelling adventures.