This Guided Walk looks at the history of Barking and some of its historic buildings. Barking Abbey was once one of the largest and most important religious houses in England, where William the Conqueror made his home while the Tower of London was constructed. The walk visits the ruins of the Abbey and the atmospheric churchyard where sea captains are buried. In the 1800's Barking was home to the Short Blue Fleet - the largest fishing fleet in England. You’ll see the Town Quay and the Ice House Quarter - remnants of Barking's fishing past - and hear stories of the life of a fisherman. You’ll also be shown examples of civic pride, like the impressive Town Hall, a modern folly and a railway station inspired by Rome.