This summer, if you fancy a spontaneous day-trip to one of the most scenic sections of the Thames, why not hop on the Overground to Barking Riverside, East London’s newest neighbourhood?
Not only is it East London’s most undiscovered stretch of river, it’s also the sole bit of Thames you can access on the Gospel Oak-Barking Riverside line. And, as it’s just 15 mins’ train ride away from Leyton Midland or Leytonstone High Road stations, there’s no excuse, really.
As you can see, the towpath here is surprisingly wild and gorgeous, with its epic views across the creek at one of the river’s widest sections. If you’re partial to a waterside stroll, it’s also well worth walking the whole 2km to the far jetty. But there’s an added incentive – with a programme of summer happenings. Here are two you really shouldn’t miss:
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July 27th: 20% off Ping-pong & Pimm’s at Barking Riverside
Leytonstoner readers partial to a bit of ping-pong should bounce down to the riverside this summer for 20% off discount tickets as social table tennis experts, Pongathon, bring ‘Ping-pong & Pimm’s’ to Barking Riverside’s waterfront.
Taking place on Saturday 27th July (2 – 6:30pm), guests can expect an afternoon filled with table tennis fun accompanied by a fruity glass of British summertime favourite, Pimm’s.
Book a 30-minute slot and head down for an interactive session of play on the stunning riverside, facilitated by Pongathon’s expert instructors, who will lead interactive games including round-the-world and ‘Challenge the Pongathon Pro’s’.
Whether you’re an Olympic ping-pong hopeful or picking up a paddle for the first time, fun games are available for all abilities. The boundary-breaking DJ China L’One will soundtrack the afternoon – having previously played as the DJ for the Euros Women Final at Wembley Stadium, captivating over 90,000 fans. A full bar service and food will be provided by The Exchange Bar and Kitchen.
DETAILS: Saturday 27th July 2024, Barking Riverside Project Office, Project Road, Barking, IG11 0YP. Tickets cost £7 per person – includes 1x 30-minute slot of table tennis and a glass of Pimm’s or soft drink equivalent. Please purchase one ticket per guest in your party (bookable ping-pong slot timings: 2-2.30pm, 3–3.30pm, 4– 4.30pm.)
Bag your EXCLUSIVE 20% off discount (meaning tickets are just £5.60 – including a Pimm’s!) with code LEYTONSTONER20 here. Social play, open to non-ticket holders, from 4.30pm – 6.30pm.
August 15th: Frame at Barking Riverside
Taking place in Barking Riverside Station Square on Thursday 15th August, Frame will host two dance-cardio classes to get you moving, set to an upbeat soundtrack guaranteed to make you feel energised.
Frame’s expert instructors will lead the routine, giving a step-by-step guide to the moves. Each class will be 40 minutes in length, with a 10-minute warm-up led by Barking Riverside’s very own local yoga instructor, Nate.
Attendees will also be given a fresh juice to quench their thirst, provided by Barking Riverside-based Empress Juicery. There will also be an engaging and informative talk from a wellness influencer to help guests learn more about well-being.
Activewear and trainers are encouraged, but guests should wear whatever they feel most comfortable in for a dance-cardio class, and yoga warm-up session. The class will take place outdoors, so please dress appropriately for the weather (whether that’s wearing suncream and a hat, or a warm jacket).
Session 1 18:00 – 19:20: Registration from 17:45. Fitness, followed by wellness talk and juice
Session 2 19:10 – 20:30 – Registration from 18:55. Fitness, followed by wellness talk and juice
DETAILS: Thursday 15th August, Barking Riverside Station Square, outside Barking Riverside Overground Station, IG11 0DS. Tickets cost £9 each, and include participation in one dance class, a juice and attendance to a wellness talk. Tickets must be booked in advance via Eventbrite.
This is a paid partnership with Barking Riverside. If you wish to speak to thousands of East Londoners please email info@leytonstoner.london
