Car Hire Barking

Barking has a quiet pull, especially after a rain, when the scent of old stone and damp greenery rises from its parks and riverside paths. East of central London, this town, which has around 60,000 residents, blends civic squares and abbey ruins with long high streets and evolving estates.

It’s easy to reach—the A13 sweeps in from the west and drivers coming from Romford or Beckton will find decent parking near parks and shopping centres. Weather here shifts quickly, especially near the river, so a light jacket never goes amiss.

Spring suits Barking best—local parks come alive and places like Eastbury Manor seem made for still, sunlit afternoons. The town doesn’t rely on big showpieces. It offers a rhythm, if you’re willing to slow down and find it.

Attractions In Barking

You won’t find the city centre buzzing with major ticketed attractions. Instead, Barking opens up slowly—through its mix of historic corners, well-kept parks, restored manors and unexpected cultural sites. The interest is in the variety, not the scale and that’s what makes a few hours here feel grounded and worthwhile.

Abbey Green

Set beside the old abbey ruins, this stretch of open green space is more than just a local park. We came early and watched schoolchildren weave between benches and old stonework, the remnants of Barking Abbey rising behind them. It’s open 24 hours and feels like a quiet stage set—simple but rich with context.

Greatfields Park

Along Greatfields Road, this park manages to be both active and calming. There’s an outdoor gym and a busy playground but also long lines of trees and benches that invite you to stay. We spotted an ice cream van near the entrance—a small detail but it added to the weekend buzz. Open daily from 6 am to 9 pm.

Eastbury Manor House

Tucked just off Ripple Road, this Tudor-era house stands as a quiet testament to Barking’s history. We explored the old hallways and sat under timber beams in the cafe, taking in stories of the 1570s that still feel embedded in the brickwork. For anyone approaching from Wanstead, it’s a surprisingly short detour for a proper slice of local heritage.

Barking Park Light Railway

A real highlight if you’re visiting with kids—or if you simply like miniature trains. This small railway loops through Barking Park on weekends and holidays. We hopped on after a morning stroll and while it’s modest, the charm is undeniable. You’ll find it off Longbridge Road.

Valence House Museum

Driving in from Barkingside, we stopped by this local museum tucked into Becontree Avenue. Housed in a medieval manor, it showcases the transformation of Barking and Dagenham over the centuries. Don’t miss the exhibits on wartime evacuees—they’re simple but powerful. Open Tues–Sat, 10 am–12 pm and 1–4 pm.

London Sri Murugan Temple

Approaching from Manor Park, the vibrant dome of this Hindu temple catches your eye immediately. Inside, the atmosphere is serene—prayers being offered, incense curling in the air. We stayed longer than planned, just absorbing the calm and colour. Open daily, 8 am–1 pm and 5–9 pm.

Eastbrookend Discovery Centre

While driving in from Docklands, we diverted to this family-friendly nature and learning spot inside The Chase parkland. There’s a small cafe, lots of birds to spot and wide open paths for walking. It’s easy to park and great for relaxed afternoons. Open daily, 9 am–6 pm.

Mayesbrook Park

This spot draws a lot of interest from people in Leytonstone who come for fitness or birdwatching. We found ourselves circling the lake more than once—ducks trailing behind, joggers looping past, the odd cyclist weaving through. It’s open 7 am to 10 pm and has plenty of space to unwind.

The Chase Nature Reserve

We planned a morning outing from Stratford and this reserve was the perfect reset. Birds in the trees, gentle trails through the woods and an almost total quiet save for the wind and birdsong. Open daily, 9 am–6 pm.

Parsloes Park

An ideal detour from the main high street, this park in nearby Dagenham mixes urban energy with pockets of green escape. The lake attracts waterfowl and dog walkers alike. The playground is full of life—though we did notice some areas could use a cleanup. Still, worth the visit. Open 8 am to 4 pm most days.

Something To Eat, Somewhere To Stay

Barking keeps things practical. There’s no shortage of takeaway joints along London Road and we found a particularly good Sri Lankan spot called Apey Kade serving hot kotthu and dosas just a short walk from the station. For coffee, Ezo Bistro does a proper flat white with flaky pastries worth lingering over. Accommodation ranges from affordable chains like Ibis Budget to more private Airbnb options scattered around Longbridge Road and the town centre. The vibe? Honest, unfussy and surprisingly peaceful come evening.