Things to do in Barking

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.
  • find price illustration

    Explore activities

    Explore thousands of experiences from activities and attractions to day tours and transfer.
  • calendar shield illustration

    Book with ease

    Skip the line- book tickets online in minutes to top attractions with free cancellation on many activities.
  • trophy illustration

    Treat yourself

    Members save % or more when you book activities.

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.
Learn more
Hyde Park featuring a garden, a river or creek and watersports

2. Big Ben

As you approach Westminster, towering Big Ben comes into view, standing majestically on the banks of the River Thames atop the glorious Houses of Parliament. Romanticised throughout the years in various films such as “Bridget Jones’s Diary”, “Notting Hill” and “Love Actually”, Big Ben is the standing soul of this great city.
Learn more
Big Ben showing a river or creek, a monument and a city

3. 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.
Learn more
O2 Arena which includes a river or creek and modern architecture

4. Buckingham Palace

Home to the British Royal family since 1837, Buckingham Palace has for centuries been at the forefront of true British tradition. Having hosted countless lavish banquets, foreign dignitary receptions and state degrees, this elegant palace has withstood decades of change and stands today as the symbol of Britain’s constitutional monarchy.
Learn more
Buckingham Palace, Westminster, London

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.
Learn more
The view across London Bridge showing the walkie talkie (voted the ugliest building in the UK) the gherkin and the razor.

6. Tower Bridge

Situated just outside tower hill, the colossal gothic towers straddling the River Thames are a welcoming sight for locals and visitors alike. Soaring majestically up into the London city skyline, Tower Bridge enables around 40,000 vehicles to cross the River Thames every day.
Learn more
Tower Bridge featuring a bay or harbor, a bridge and heritage architecture

7. Piccadilly Circus

This rather unusual name derives from a tailor named Roger Baker, famous for making the frilled collars worn by men the 17th Century. Contrary to popular belief, the “circus” refers to the circular motion of traffic that trundles around the central statue of the Greek god Anteros. Today, Piccadilly Circus is an amalgamation of bright lights, lavish entertainment and bustling commuters, a scene which attracts thousands of visitors each year, day and night.
Learn more
London which includes heritage elements, a city and street scenes

8. Trafalgar Square

Constructed as a tribute to commemorate the British Victory at Trafalgar in 1805, this lively square attracts a staggering 30 million visitors each year. Famous for its iconic statue of Admiral Lord Nelson, known as Nelson’s Column, the area has for decades been a gathering point for political rallies and New Year celebrations.
Learn more
Trafalgar Square which includes a city, a sunset and a square or plaza

What to do in Barking

Popular places to visit

Hyde Park which includes a city, a pond and a park

Hyde Park

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
Big Ben showing a river or creek, a monument and a city

Big Ben

Arguably one of London’s most famous monuments, this prominent landmark is a national icon, adored by generations of Britons.

Big Ben
O2 Arena which includes modern architecture

O2 Arena

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
Buckingham Palace featuring heritage architecture, a castle and a city

Buckingham Palace

This luxury residence of the oldest royal family in the world is still a national icon, attracting thousands of visitors each year.

Buckingham Palace
London Bridge featuring a city

London Bridge

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
Tower Bridge showing a river or creek, a bridge and night scenes

Tower Bridge

A marvel of engineering, this iconic landmark has for centuries been at the forefront of London’s epic skyline.

Tower Bridge
The stadium in the sunset in london.; Shutterstock ID 2698953

Wembley Stadium

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
Piccadilly Circus which includes street scenes, heritage architecture and a city

Piccadilly Circus

This bustling, energetic area of London has been likened to Times Square in the US. It's also the perfect place to start your London sightseeing adventure.

Piccadilly Circus
The British Museum featuring heritage architecture, a city and a square or plaza

The British Museum

This colossal treasure chest houses some of the world’s most precious artefacts. Today, it is one of the largest and most comprehensive museums in the world.

The British Museum
Piccadilly Circus featuring a city, city views and street scenes

London

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.