Barking is a historic town in the eastern suburbs of London, England, located on the north bank of the River Thames. It is the administrative centre of the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham and home to a population of over 130,000 people. Barking is full of culture, nature and attractions, making it the perfect place for a first date.
1. Barking parks and places for a walk on a first date
Barking offers a great selection of outdoor spaces for couples to enjoy a romantic walk on a first date. The town is home to a number of parks, the largest being Eastbury Manor House, which is set within five acres of beautiful gardens. The area also has its own scenic nature reserves, including Ripple Nature Reserve, just a few miles away. The park features ancient woodland and is a haven of wildlife, perfect for an afternoon stroll. Other notable parks in the area include Thames Road Recreation Ground, which is home to a range of play equipment, and Barking Riverside which offers stunning views of the Thames.
2. Places for a coffee date in Barking
Barking has a number of cafes and coffee shops on offer for couples to enjoy a coffee date. If you're looking for a chic, sophisticated cafe, Black Bear is a must-visit. The cafe offers a range of speciality coffee, teas and cakes, and is the perfect spot for a relaxed, casual date. For those who are more adventurous, then why not explore one of the many independent cafes that can be found in the area? Cafe @ 19 High Street is a popular spot, with a selection of light meals, snacks and drinks, while The Pantry is another great place to enjoy a coffee date.
3. Barking galleries, museums and exhibitions to visit on a date
Barking also has a number of galleries, museums and exhibitions to visit on a date. The town is home to the award-winning Thameside Theatre, which houses a large selection of art and history exhibits, as well as regular theatre performances. The Museum of Barking and Dagenham is also a great place to visit, with a range of interactive displays and activities to explore. Both museums are free to visit and offer a great opportunity to learn about the history and culture of the area, as well as the perfect opportunity for a unique date.
4. Live music and entertainment to invite your date to in Barking
Barking is full of live music and entertainment venues, perfect for inviting a date to. Music lovers can head to the Indigo O2, which hosts a range of popular acts, while comedy fans can visit the Comedy Cafe Theatre, which features regular stand-up shows. For a more intimate setting, the Daisy Bar offers a great selection of music, as well as a variety of drinks and food.
5. Barking pubs, bars or restaurants for a first date drink or food
Barking offers a range of great pubs, bars and restaurants for a first date drink or food. There are a number of pubs and bars to choose from, including the historic Red Lion and the Boathouse, which both offer a varied selection of beers and ales. If you're looking for something a little more special, then why not visit the Artisan or the Angel and Crown? For a romantic evening meal, there are a variety of restaurants to choose from, including the acclaimed Chameleon, offering fine dining, and The Steam Room, which specialises in traditional British dishes.
6. Other date ideas to try in Barking
Barking has plenty of other date ideas to try. There are a number of cinemas in the town, including the Empire and Reel Barking, both of which are great spots to watch the latest films. Alternatively, why not visit one of the many local markets, such as Barking Market and the Sunday Market, both of which offer a range of fresh local produce and handmade goods. Finally, why not explore the many art galleries in the area, such as the Eastside Gallery, which features a selection of modern and contemporary art, or the Whitechapel Gallery which showcases the work of prominent artists from around the world?
