Car Hire Beckton

Beckton sits quietly near the curve of the A13, nudged up against the Royal Docks and surrounded by green pockets that feel a world away from the bustle of inner London. Its population counts 33,000. While driving in from Stratford, the shift is gradual—tower blocks give way to retail parks and wide roads open into clusters of playgrounds, waterways and newly developed estates. It’s a part of the city that still carries hints of its industrial past but wears them lightly.

Getting here by car is straightforward, with the A406 North Circular and A13 providing direct access. Parking isn’t usually a headache—a relief if you’re coming in for a weekend stroll or family outing. Beckton’s weather is generally mild, though the breeze coming off the Thames can catch you off guard, especially in the shoulder months. We found spring and early autumn to be ideal, when the parks are lush but not crowded and the air is just cool enough to stay comfortable on foot.

Attractions In Beckton

One of the town’s draws is its sheer variety of outdoor space—from barrier parks that sweep along the riverside to local commons tucked in behind estates. There’s also the growing appeal of pop-up events and exhibitions at ExCeL, making Beckton a popular option with those based in Bow looking to swap concrete for grass without venturing far.

Albatross Point

We nearly missed the turnoff—it’s that discreet. No signs, no fuss. Just a narrow path leading to a wide-open view of the Thames, where the horizon seems to stretch on forever. There’s a stillness to it early in the morning that’s hard to describe. The kind of place where you don’t need to do anything—just stand still and breathe. Open 24 hours.

Thames Barrier Park

There’s a surprising elegance to this space. Rows of manicured hedges, soft green banks and views of the barrier rising like futuristic sculptures beyond the river.

We passed joggers, couples with takeaway coffees and one man quietly sketching the skyline. The sunken garden adds a different layer—almost like you’ve stepped into another city.

New Beckton Park

Near Savage Gardens, this park feels both spacious and accessible. We saw families picnicking, kids on swings and teenagers casually playing football. It’s not flashy but it’s clearly valued by the community. If you’re coming from Docklands, it’s a nice way to ease into the quieter side of Beckton. Open 24 hours.

Zip World London

A sudden drop and a city view. We hadn’t planned to do it but couldn’t resist. The launch over Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park is steeper than it looks and our nerves hit just as the harness clipped in.

Staff were calm, encouraging—they knew exactly when to joke and when to double-check your harness. A good shout if you’re coming in from Leytonstone. Open daily, 10:00 am to 6:00 pm (5:00 pm weekdays).

Royal Victoria Gardens

Set along Albert Road, these gardens offer old-school charm—flower beds, iron railings and plenty of benches. We walked under plane trees with views of the river nearby, the air full of birdsong and soft traffic noise. It’s simple but calming. Open 24 hours.

Three Mills Green & Island

History clings to the cobbles here. There’s a quiet magic to the place, especially on cloudy afternoons when the buildings look like something from a painting.

We popped in on the way to Barkingside, not expecting much and ended up staying for a slow walk around the island. It’s not polished. That’s what makes it special. Open all day.

Island Gardens

You’ll hear the sounds before anything comes into view—ferry horns, distant trains, birds overhead. Then the trees open up and you’re suddenly facing one of the best views of Greenwich you can get without crossing the river.

We grabbed lunch from a corner shop and ate on a bench overlooking the water. Nothing fancy but honestly, that’s what made it perfect. Open 24 hours.

Beckton Park

We caught it just after a drizzle, so the paths were damp and the grass smelled fresh. It’s not a park that shouts for attention—no sculptures, no fountains—but that’s part of the charm. Just space. For runners, readers and people who need a bit of quiet.

If you’re driving in from Wanstead, it’s a great place to stretch your legs before heading further east. Open 24 hours.

The FRIENDS™ Experience: The One In London

It’s louder than you’d expect but it works. There’s music, chatter and the low hum of excitement from people stepping into a show they’ve known for years.

We booked a weekday slot and breezed through the queue. You move through the sets—Central Perk, Monica’s flat—snapping pictures and saying, “Wait, is that the actual sofa?” Yes. Yes, it is. Closed Mondays. Otherwise open 10:00 am to 7:15 pm.

Eastbury Manor House (National Trust)

A short drive from Barking, this Tudor manor sits quietly behind a row of houses. Blink and you’ll miss it. Inside, it’s all oak beams, steep stairs and windows that frame the gardens just so.

We had tea in the café—strong, no nonsense—and listened to someone recount a story about a ghost in the upstairs corridor. Whether you believe it or not, the place holds stories. Hours vary by season.

A Place To Pause, Not Just Pass Through

For a quick bite or coffee, the Starbucks at Beckton Gateway Retail Park is one of the more reliable stops—handy if you’re heading in or out by car. At Gallions Reach, we found Nando’s buzzing with locals on a Friday evening, with easy parking and plenty of indoor seating. If you’re staying overnight, the Premier Inn London Beckton on Woolwich Manor Way is a straightforward, comfortable option right in the area—especially useful for early starts toward Manor Park or further across east London.