Car Hire Manor Park

Tucked into the eastern stretch of Greater London, Manor Park blends spiritual landmarks with peaceful green spaces, creating a calm yet culturally rich backdrop. It’s a home to 15,000 residents. Easily accessed via major roads like the A118 and A406, it’s a practical spot to reach by car, with less of the congestion found deeper into the city. The weather stays fairly mild year-round, though spring and early autumn tend to bring the most enjoyable conditions for exploring on foot. It’s a go-to for residents of Walthamstow looking for somewhere that feels grounded yet quietly compelling. Pack a few layers and shoes you don’t mind walking in—between historic temples, family-friendly parks and a surprisingly serene pace, Manor Park rewards the slow wanderer. From nature lovers to those drawn to religious heritage, it caters to a broad mix without trying too hard to impress.

Attractions In Manor Park

With its mix of urban character and open landscapes, Manor Park offers more than first meets the eye. The area is rich in peaceful retreats, cultural landmarks and historic sites—many of which remain under the radar for casual tourists.

Valentines Park

There’s something immediately welcoming about Valentines Park—maybe it’s the way the ducks and swans wander freely through the tree-lined paths or the bursts of colour from its many species of trees as the seasons shift. Squirrels are practically part of the experience here, cheeky and bold, trotting up to walkers in hopes of a snack before dashing away if none appears. The space is broad without being overwhelming and whether you’re here for a quiet stroll or to sit under a canopy of autumn leaves, it delivers that familiar calm people look for in a local retreat. Open daily from 8 AM to 8 PM, it’s the kind of place where even a short visit lingers with you.

Manor Park Flats

At first glance, Manor Park Flats feels modest—just a compact loop of greenery wedged between bigger landmarks. But its charm is in the quiet. There’s no crowd jostling for space here, just families spread across the grass and a few runners tracing the loop around the perimeter. It’s especially good for slow walks or for simply lying back and soaking in the sunshine when the weather plays along. Framed by Wanstead Flats and sitting close to the City of London Cemetery, the space has that in-between feel—not fully urban, not fully wild. Whether you’re new to the area or just want somewhere unbothered by the city’s usual rush, it’s open 24 hours and always ready for a pause.

Priory Park

Priory Park isn’t flashy but it hits the mark for families looking for a bit of open-air fun. There’s a proper play area for kids, complete with swings and rides and a basketball cage that tends to stay lively in the afternoons. Even though the park lacks some amenities—there’s no public toilet, for instance—it stays busy with locals who know exactly what they’re coming for. Its tucked-away position makes it feel more like a neighbourhood secret than a tourist stop and while it’s not the easiest to reach by public routes, that’s part of its draw. The gates open each morning at 7 AM and close again at 6 PM, giving everyone plenty of time to find their own little corner in the day.

Plashet Park

Dating back to the late 19th century, Plashet Park stands out as a well-loved spot that manages to balance charm and practicality. Its Victorian roots are still visible today in the tree-lined paths and ornamental features, giving the park a sense of continuity with its past. Tucked within easy reach of Stratford, it’s a common side trip for those already exploring this part of Greater London. Families come for the playgrounds and sports courts, while others prefer the winding paths for a relaxed walk. Open every day from 7:30 AM to 10:30 PM, it’s a reliable option no matter the time of year.

Forest Lane Park

Forest Lane Park isn’t one of the better-known green spaces but its quiet atmosphere and subtle historical touches give it a unique appeal. Once the grounds of a 19th-century maternity hospital, its natural terrain still carries echoes of its past, from the pond to the oak nurse statue that now serves as a thoughtful memorial. While the area could use more upkeep in places, it’s precisely that rough-around-the-edges character that gives it heart. Hidden between Maryland and Forest Gate, it feels like a secret even many locals overlook. Open on workdays from 9 AM to 5 PM, it’s not an all-day destination—but for those who know what to look for, it holds more than expected.

Barking Park

There’s a vibrancy to Barking Park that sets it apart from the quieter corners of Manor Park. The lake reflects the tree canopy overhead, while wide paths make space for joggers, families and the occasional food cart along the way. The big draw, though, is the fun fair—a burst of colour and activity that lights up the area, particularly as the sun goes down. People gather around the rides and stalls, cotton candy in hand and the mood turns festive without becoming chaotic. With a strong 4.6 rating from over 1,300 reviews, it’s a popular pick for anyone looking to round out their day with both peace and a little play.

Wanstead Park

Wanstead Park is a serene, leafy stretch where birdlife flourishes and still lakes mirror the canopy above. Early mornings here are especially peaceful, with joggers tracing the edges of the water and families drifting toward the beloved tea hut, known for its bacon sandwiches and relaxed atmosphere. It’s the kind of space that invites lingering—whether you’re out with a dog, on a solo stroll or simply sitting with a hot drink and letting the day unfold slowly. You’ll find this especially appealing if you’re staying near Wanstead.

The Temple

Tucked within Wanstead Park’s broader grounds, The Temple is a compact but striking structure surrounded by open fields and grazing cattle. While it isn’t always accessible to enter, the building remains an impressive sight from the outside—especially in the colder months when sunlight glances off the white stone and gives it a sort of quiet dignity. People often stop by as part of a longer walk through the area, taking a moment to sit and soak in the stillness. Its appeal isn’t in flashy exhibits or interpretation boards but rather in the way it integrates with the nature around it, letting you reflect without distraction. You could pass by without noticing—or spend an hour there without moving.

Sri Mahalakshmi Temple

From the moment we stepped inside Sri Mahalakshmi Temple, there was a sense of warmth and quiet reverence that lingered long after we’d left. It’s often recommended by folks based in Leytonstone who make the trip not just for spiritual connection but to feel rooted in something familiar. The temple’s layout and rituals reflect Tamil culture with remarkable authenticity, creating a space that’s both deeply cultural and incredibly welcoming. Open daily with flexible morning and evening hours, it’s not just a place of worship but a living bridge to tradition. The calm, the incense and the rhythm of temple life offer more than visuals—they give visitors a feeling of grounding, whether they come to reflect or simply observe.

Chapels

Along Sebert Road, the historic Chapels building brings together elements of old-world architecture and modern upkeep in a way that feels quietly respectful. Though originally designed for funeral services, its beauty goes beyond its function—the structure is well-kept, with graceful lines and soft brick tones that make it stand out among nearby properties. It serves as a thoughtful space for moments of reflection, retaining its dignity while being accessible and understated. Open on workdays from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM, it’s worth a stop for those who appreciate architecture that holds both cultural and emotional significance.

London Sri Murugan Temple

London Sri Murugan Temple is more than a place of worship—it’s a sanctuary of calm where visitors often find themselves unexpectedly moved. The carvings, rituals and carefully maintained spaces combine to offer a deep sense of serenity, whether you’re there to meditate or simply take in the spiritual atmosphere. While nearby in Barkingside, we decided to take a short drive over and were struck by how welcoming the community felt from the moment we stepped through the doors. This temple is open daily with generous morning and evening hours, offering a reliable chance to pause and connect. For many, it becomes a quiet highlight of their time in East London.

The High Stone Of Snaresbrook

The High Stone of Snaresbrook is one of those landmarks that could easily be missed if you didn’t know the history behind it. Dating back to the early 1700s, this old mile marker once helped travellers find their way between places like Epping, Ongar and Whitechapel. It’s a subtle piece of London’s past—simple in appearance but packed with significance for those interested in how the city’s infrastructure evolved. Today, it stands quietly at its original location, a lasting symbol of how far people have come and how distances once felt far more meaningful. Though it doesn’t demand much time to visit, it adds an extra layer of context to the landscape around Manor Park.

Former Plashet Passmore Edwards Public Library

Once a cornerstone of civic life, this landmark on Plashet Grove has worn many hats—from public library to town hall, wedding venue to community café. Its current setup, with a small eatery offering halal and vegan options, blends heritage with everyday function. While the building’s role has shifted over time, it continues to serve as a central space for the local community. The structure itself still bears the character of its Victorian origins, making it a worthwhile stop for those interested in architecture with a story behind it. Its presence in the park offers an easy mix of history and convenience that quietly reflects how neighbourhoods evolve.

National Trust – Eastbury Manor House

This Elizabethan house feels worlds away from London’s contemporary sprawl but it’s tucked just beyond the main streets of Barking. Inside, layers of history come alive—from the centuries of changing ownership to the near-demolition it narrowly escaped in the early 1900s. We planned a day trip from Beckton and found the experience as informative as it was atmospheric. The building’s three public floors, occasional exhibits and enthusiastic volunteer guides offer visitors a glimpse into life across the ages. Add a peaceful tea room and a few quiet outdoor tables and you’ve got a deeply satisfying pause in the day. Open Thursday, Friday and Sunday, it’s a solid choice for those curious about East London’s preserved past.

Splash Park

For families visiting Barking Park, the Splash Park is a go-to during warmer months, with fountains and sprays that light up the day for children of all ages. The layout is interactive without feeling chaotic, giving parents a chance to relax while the little ones burn off energy. Many visitors from Bow find this to be a good first stop before continuing their day through the wider park grounds. Open daily from 11 AM to 6:30 PM, the park maintains a lively but safe atmosphere, especially popular on school holidays and sunny weekends.

From quiet chapels to vibrant parks and deeply rooted spiritual sites, Manor Park offers more than enough to fill a day without ever feeling hurried. Local cafés, especially those tucked near the historic buildings or set within park grounds, provide simple but satisfying stops for tea, snacks or a late lunch. There’s a gentle balance here—moments of reflection, space for children to play and enough history to give depth to your visit. Another sites are never far off, one being Barking which has to offer a lot on its own.