Introduction
There are plans for re-landscaping of the whole Abbey Green site including the Abbey Ruins, subject to full approvals in 2011.
The ruined remains of Barking Abbey now form part of a public open space known as Abbey Green. It is recognisable for its partially restored Grade-II* Listed Curfew Tower.
- Visitor Access, Directions & Contacts
Telephone
020 8227 2332Access contact details
Opening is unrestricted.
Directions
London Overground/Rail/Tube (Hammersmith & City, District): Barking. Bus: 5, 62, 87, 169, 179, 238, 287, 366, 368, 369, 387.
Owners
London Borough of Barking & Dagenham
- History
7th - 10th Century
Originally established in the 7th century, from the late 10th century the abbey followed the Rule of St. Benedict.
14th Century
The abbey had a large endowment and sizeable income but suffered severely after 1377, when the River Thames flooded around 720 acres (290 ha) of the abbey's land, which was unable to be reclaimed.
16th Century
The abbey existed for almost 900 years, until its closure in 1539, as part of King Henry VIII's Dissolution of the Monasteries.
20th Century
In 1910, Barking Town UDC purchased the site to create an area for public recreation and during associated road works the Abbey foundations were discovered. The site was carefully excavated to reveal the ruined foundations. The Abbey Playing Field, incorporating the site of Barking Abbey, was opened as a public garden in 1913.
There are plans for re-landscaping of the whole Abbey Green site including the Abbey Ruins, subject to full approvals in 2011.
Period
Early 20th Century (1901-1932)
- Features & Designations
Designations
Conservation Area
- Reference: Town Quay & Barking Abbey
Scheduled Ancient Monument
Site of Local Importance for Nature Conservation
- Key Information
Type
Garden
Purpose
Ornamental
Principal Building
Heritage Site
Period
Early 20th Century (1901-1932)
Survival
Extant
Hectares
1.5
Open to the public
Yes