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Living at Fresh Wharf, Barking & Dagenham - Folio's Living Guide

Living Guide
October 2026

Barking and Dagenham’s riverside scene is experiencing a captivating revival. Fresh Wharf is a former dockyard that has now been reborn. Offering modern living spaces as well as trendy eateries, inviting bars, and the tranquil beauty of the River Roding.

This area guide unlocks the secrets of Barking and Dagenham, from historic gems to vibrant culinary experiences. Whether you’re currently living in Barking or Dagenham or looking to move to the area, this guide equips you to navigate what the area has to offer.

Things to do

in Barking and Dagenham

Goals, Dagenham

If you’re looking for a casual kick about, or to join a 5-a-side league, Goals in Dagenham is the spot! They boast a selection of different size 3G pitches including 5, 7 and 8-a-side. To add to this, there are floodlights to cover late night kick-offs, on-site changing rooms, and a refreshments station.

Open from 10am to 11pm on weekdays, 9am to 10pm on Saturdays, and 9am to 11pm on Sundays, why not head down and check them out!

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Eastbrookend Country Park

For something a little more relaxing, Eastbrookend Country Park might be a more sensible decision. Spanning over 120 hectares, this park offers a delightful escape right on your doorstep.

Explore lakes, lush woodlands, or unwind in spacious meadows perfect for a dog walk or morning run.

The park caters to all ages with a designated children’s play area, perfect for keeping little ones entertained. Feeling peckish? Grab a bite at the on-site cafe, offering refreshments and light meals.

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Best places to eat

in Barking and Dagenham

The Boathouse Cafe and Bar, Barking

On the other side of the River Roding from Fresh Wharf lies The Boathouse Cafe and Bar.

This easygoing venue offers a delightful escape, perfect for a casual coffee break or a relaxed evening drink.

To compliment their drinks they have an extensive food menu. Services start at breakfast, running through lunch up until the evening. With both indoor and outdoor seating it’s the perfect spot all year round, making it one of the best restaurants in Barking and Dagenham.

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Lara Grill, Dagenham

If you fancy some traditional Mediterranean food, look no further than Lara Grill, a local favourite specialising in charcoal-grilled Turkish specialties. This modern restaurant features an open kitchen, where you can watch their unique marinades sizzle to perfection on the grill.

Lara Grill caters to a variety of appetites, offering hot and cold mezze platters, perfect for sharing or a light lunch. And for the main course, dive into their signature succulent lamb or chicken shish, or explore flavorful Adana kebabs.

With countless positive reviews don’t just take our word for it!

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Cristina’s Steakhouse, Barking

Founded in 2012, Cristina’s Steakhouse has been serving East London for over a decade.

This relaxed eatery offers a selection of high-quality steaks cooked to perfection. Beyond their signature dishes like ‘The T-Bone’, Cristina’s boasts juicy burgers, Sunday roasts, and a tempting choice of wines to complement your meal.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or fancy a casual weeknight dinner, Cristina’s Steakhouse has the perfect atmosphere for it.

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