Heritage and History

Barking Abbey

Barking Abbey was founded by St Erkenwald (later Bishop of London) in AD 666 for his sister St Ethelburga.

It became one of the richest and most powerful in the country before being dissolved on the orders of Henry VIII in 1539.

Today only ruins remain of this once great institution, together with one surviving gateway, the Curfew Tower. St Margaret's Church was used as a parish church by the townspeople of Barking and survived the Dissolution.

Location

Situated a short distance from Barking Town Centre, between Abbey Road and the Broadway.

Click image for larger version.

Opening hours

The Abbey remains are open to the public at all times. There is no admission charge.

History

The first Barking Abbey was destroyed by the invading Vikings in 870. A century later it was re-founded as a royal foundation, enabling the monarch to nominate each new abbess.

Queens, princesses and members of the nobility all became abbesses. In 1066 William the Conqueror spent his first New Year as King here.

After the Abbey was dissolved the main buildings were pulled down. For almost 400 years the site was used as a quarry and a farm.

Early in 1911 an archaeological excavation was carried out jointly by Barking Town Council and the Morant Club under Sir Alfred Clapham. Remains of the walls of the Abbey church were left exposed to view.

In 1975 the Abbey site, St Margaret's churchyard and their environs were designated a Conservation Area.

Please see the links below for more information.

Barking Abbey Information Sheet PDF 194K