The Quaker Burial Ground
The Quaker Burial Ground, also known as Quaker Gardens, is a unique historic open space located close to Barking Town Centre. Hidden behind its surrounding walls, the site provides a quiet and contemplative green space for residents and visitors alike.
Today the gardens offer a peaceful environment for relaxation and reflection while preserving an important chapter of Barking’s religious and social history.
The site was originally established as the burial ground for the Religious Society of Friends, commonly known as the Quakers. Generations of local Quaker families were laid to rest here, reflecting the important role the movement played in Barking’s history.
The burial ground is particularly significant as the final resting place of Elizabeth Fry (1780–1845), the renowned prison reformer, social campaigner and one of Britain’s most influential nineteenth-century humanitarians. Her work helped transform conditions within prisons and advanced social reform across the country.
In 1980 the former burial ground was converted into a small public garden. The remaining gravestones and monuments were removed, while the tranquil character of the site was retained as a space for quiet enjoyment and reflection.
Key Information
Getting There
Location
Harts Lane/North Street, Barking, IG11 8JA
Contact
Email parksandenvironment@lbbd.gov.uk
Parking
No parking available. To make your visit easier and stress‑free, we kindly recommend using public transport such as Barking station or the buses from outside
Accessibility
The site is a flat, open space
Nature
Although relatively small, the site provides a valuable habitat for birds, insects and urban wildlife. The mature landscaping and enclosed setting create a peaceful atmosphere that distinguishes the gardens from the busy town centre nearby.
The Quaker Burial Ground combines natural beauty with a rich cultural heritage, making it one of the borough’s most distinctive open spaces.
Other Features
- Historic Quaker burial ground
- Final resting place of Elizabeth Fry
- Enclosed walled garden setting
- Mature trees and ornamental planting
- Wildlife-friendly green space
- Seating areas for rest and reflection
- Quiet environment close to Barking Town Centre
Do's
Be kind to wildlife – Enjoy watching animals and birds, but don’t disturb them.
Walking your dog? Keep them under control and always keep them on a lead near:
- Playgrounds, play areas
- Lakes (to protect nesting birds)
- Public buildings
- Always clean up after your dog using the bins provided
Picnics are welcome! Just remember to take all your rubbish home with you.
Countryside byelaws
The London Borough of Barking and Dagenham, like other councils, has wide powers to make byelaws in relation to a range of areas under its control. Generally, byelaws seek to uphold good order, government and public health
Report to us
Please help the Ranger Service by reporting any problems you see or ideas that you have that will improve your enjoyment of the parks and nature reserves in the borough.
Don'ts
Don’t harm or disturb wildlife – It’s against the law to hurt or scare wild animals or birds.
Don’t damage or disturb animal homes like nests or burrows, especially during breeding season.
No hunting or capturing. No traps, nets, or snares – These can harm protected animals.
Birds of prey can only be brought in with permission. Please see the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.
No fishing, except at Eastbrookend Country Park (with a valid rod licence). Check fishing rules here.
No swimming in lakes or walking on them when they are frozen.
No model boats.
Fires, and barbecues are strictly forbidden.
Camping is not allowed.
No setting up tents, gazebos, or marquees without permission.
Don’t climb on:
- Fences, walls, or railings
- Trees or park structures (enclosures, posts…etc)
- No motorbikes in the park
- No model aircrafts or drones
- No selling or trading in the park
Keep an eye on our events calendar for upcoming events
Abbey Green hosts a variety of community events and activities throughout the year. Keep an eye on our events calendar for upcoming events.
Wild and Free in LBBD
Each year the Barking & Dagenham Park Ranger Service invites local residents to share their experiences of LBBD’s parks through the Wild & Free Photo Competition.
Friends of the parks
Are you interested in making a positive contribution to the management and development of your local park? Then please join the Friends group to help make a difference.
Community groups
Read more about some of the brilliant local organisations (that we sometimes partner with) who support the local community and help make our borough a better place to live.
Things to do -
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