Barking is a historic town in east London, situated around the River Roding and close to the River Thames. The settlement has ancient origins and developed as a fishing and market community before becoming increasingly industrialised as London expanded eastwards. Barking Abbey was once one of the most important religious institutions in medieval England, and the town continued to evolve as an important transport and commercial centre. Today Barking is a diverse and rapidly developing part of Greater London, combining historic landmarks with major regeneration projects.
Barking: Historical sights and information
Facts about Barking
- Latitude:
- 51.538855
- Longitude:
- 0.078924
- GPS Coordinates:
- 51°32' N, 00°05' E
The historical and tourist importance of the town
Barking Abbey and St Margaret's Church form the centre of the town's historic heritage, with the abbey ruins providing evidence of Barking's medieval importance. Barking Park offers a large green space close to the town centre, while the River Roding provides opportunities for walking and exploring the local environment. The Thames waterfront and nearby Creekmouth are important parts of the area's industrial and maritime heritage. Central London is easily accessible, allowing visitors to combine Barking with attractions such as the Tower of London, the City and the Docklands.
Food, shopping and when to visit
Barking has a highly diverse food scene reflecting its multicultural population, with restaurants, cafés, markets and food shops representing cuisines from around the world. The town centre and surrounding neighbourhoods provide extensive everyday shopping, while larger retail and entertainment destinations are available elsewhere in East London. Late spring through early autumn is particularly pleasant for exploring parks and riverside areas, although Barking's historic and cultural attractions can be visited throughout the year. Its strong transport connections also make it a practical base for exploring both East London and central London.
Locations & Tours
Discover famous landmarks, historical sites and tourist attractions in Barking.