Things to do in Barking

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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.

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 {852 fun activities in Barking fun activities in Barking}, and book with confidence knowing that we offer free cancellation and no added fees.

Things to do

Fully guided Paris Day Trip with Cruise & Eiffel Tower Lunch

Paris Day Trip from London with Optional Eiffel Tower Lunch & Seine Cruise

$438
per adult
86% of travellers recommend
Paris Day Trip from London with Optional Eiffel Tower Lunch & Seine Cruise
Tower Bridge Admission Tickets

Tower Bridge Admission Tickets

$21
per adult
86% of travellers recommend
Tower Bridge Admission Tickets
Tower of London Tickets with Beefeater Tour & Crown Jewels

The Tower of London Tickets with Yeoman Warder Beefeater Tour

$49
per adult
90% of travellers recommend
The Tower of London Tickets with Yeoman Warder Beefeater Tour
Kensington Palace Tickets

Kensington Palace & Gardens Tickets

$33
per adult
90% of travellers recommend
Kensington Palace & Gardens Tickets
Westminster Abbey in London

Westminster Abbey Tickets

$36
per adult
86% of travellers recommend
Westminster Abbey Tickets
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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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A river with boats, a gazebo, and autumn trees.

2. 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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A classical fountain with statues, a golden angel, and a neoclassical building in the background.

3. 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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A busy urban square with historic buildings, a prominent dome, and a clear blue sky.

4. 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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The Houses of Parliament and Big Ben in London.

5. 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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The Tower Bridge in London, featuring two towers, a central arch, and suspension cables.

6. Trafalgar Square

Built to commemorate the British Navy’s victory at the Battle of Trafalgar, London’s Trafalgar Square is now the first port of call for over 30 million tourists a year. This area has been a gathering point for celebrations and political rallies for more than a century. Within hours of each event, however, the normal rhythms of the city return, watched over by the stoic statues of Admiral Lord Nelson and the Four Lions.
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A large obelisk monument surrounded by a circular fountain in a city square.

Recommended things to do in Barking

Number of things to do
852
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
Ghosts of Theatreland: Haunted West End Walking Tour in London: $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!

 

 

Stay near popular Barking attractions

Eastbury Manor House

5.6/10 (11 reviews)
This Elizabethan manor from the 1570s showcases rare 17th-century wall paintings and original Tudor features. Explore the historic rooms, admire timber beams, and wander through the peaceful walled garden.
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Where to stay in Barking

Find the best Barking areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Barking
Learn more about Barking
A river with boats, trees, and buildings along the banks.

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.

A historic stone church with a tall tower and arched windows, surrounded by a cemetery with headstones.
Photo by Richard Rogerson
Open Photo by Richard Rogerson

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.

The Tower Bridge in London, with its two towers and bascules.

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 The Hospital Chapel of St Mary & St Thomas.

An empty church interior with purple pews, a wooden altar, and a cross on the wall.
Photo by John Salmon
Open Photo by John Salmon

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.

 

 

Popular day trips from Barking

Two red double-decker buses on a city street with historic buildings in the background.

London

A historic stone church with a tall tower and arched windows, surrounded by mature trees and a cemetery.

Dagenham

Tower Bridge in London, with the River Thames in the foreground and the Houses of Parliament in the background.

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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