Things to do in Barking

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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.

Barking Attractions

There are opportunities for fun everywhere you turn in Barking. From adventurous excursions to well-known tourist attractions, this delightful city packs a sightseeing punch. Ready to start planning your itinerary?

Learn what makes Barking tick with some of the most popular tours & day trips. Browse through our top {627 fun activities in Barking fun activities in Barking}, and book with confidence knowing that we offer free cancellation and no added fees.

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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. 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

3. O2 Arena

The O2 Arena is an award-winning complex that hosts many types of events, such as sports and music. It has a seating capacity of about 20,000 and has held the title as the busiest arena in the world with more than 2 million ticket sales in a calendar year. It was designed with excellent acoustics to prevent echoing.
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O2 Arena which includes a river or creek and modern architecture

4. 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

5. 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.

6. 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

7. 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

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

Recommended things to do in Barking

Number of things to do
627
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
eSIM: Airalo Europe Package: $5
Top 5 things to do
Under $25
With kids

What to do in Barking

Things to Do in Barking with Kids

There's fun for the whole family no matter where you go in Barking. Here are some family friendly experiences you can enjoy together that promise to make your trip a blast:

 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Barking? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 

 

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
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
O2 Arena showing modern architecture

O2 Arena

4.5/5(588 reviews)

Attend music and sports events, see a movie or go bowling in one of the busiest arenas in the world, situated inside this iconic dome by the River Thames.

O2 Arena
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
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
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
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
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 shops in this vibrant area.

Wembley Stadium
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

 

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.

 

 

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 an interesting mix of culture, local charm and attractions. Whether you're into history, nature or local cuisine, there are many things here to enjoy.
How do I spend a day in Barking?
Start your adventures with a visit to London Eye and The British Museum. Then, tour different areas of Barking for local restaurants and some souvenir shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in Barking?
The top tourist attraction in Barking is London Eye, so be sure to put it on your agenda.
Is three days enough to stay in Barking?
Three days will be enough time to tick off many city attractions, including IFS Cloud Royal Docks Station, IFS Cloud Greenwich Peninsula Station and William Morris Gallery. The average stay in Barking is three days. If you have the urge to extend your escape, London isn't far away.
Is Barking a walkable city?
It all depends on what you'd like to see and do in Barking. Several sights, such as Brick Lane Music Hall and Kenneth More Theatre, are accessible on foot. If you're up for a wander through some of Barking's neighborhoods, Newham is 2 miles away from downtown, while Custom House is 3 miles away from the city center and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Barking with kids?
If you're looking for sights and tours for all of your group, here are some terrific ideas for what to do in Barking with kids.

What to do in Barking for adults?
Whether you're a food lover, culture enthusiast or fan of nature, there are loads of things to do in Barking for adults including Beefeater Gin Distillery and Liverpool Street.
Are there free things to do in Barking?
From visiting parks to strolling around hip neighborhoods, it's simple to discover free things to do in Barking. If you're in need of ideas, ask a local tour guide for some tips. William Morris Gallery is a top spot for anyone looking to save on their sightseeing activities.

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