Paddington is a cosmopolitan and vibrant area. It has many hidden gems to be discovered, from royal parks to Little Venice and charming canals, quiet garden squares, unique bridges, historical buildings, plenty of places to eat and stay and of course, it’s famous, friendly bear! Here is our pick of things to do in London’s Paddington district.
PADDINGTON BEAR
You can’t miss the bronze statue of the iconic, fictional bear at Paddington Station!
ALEXANDER FLEMING’S LABORATORY
St Mary’s Hospital was where Alexander Fleming discovered penicillin in 1928! The laboratory where he worked was restored to how it was a century ago and is now open to the public to visit. In addition, St Mary’s Hospital is also famous for its royal births, including Prince Charles and Kate Middleton’s children!
LITTLE VENICE
Located just behind Paddington Station is the Paddington Arm of the Grand Union canal at Little Venice. You can take boat trips from here to Regents Park and the Camden Market. The canalside is also a fantastic place to walk, admire the colourful boats and stop at one of the many waterside cafes.
This 8 mile long canal is a beautiful place to explore or cycle, at anytime of the year. For those who enjoy a longer waterside walk, you can even follow the Regent’s Canal all the way to the London Zoo!
HIRE A PADDLEBOARD
A unique way to see Paddington and London’s extensive network of waterways is by stand up paddleboard!KENSINGTON GARDENS
One of the Royal Parks of London, Kensington Gardens was once part of the private gardens that belonged to Kensington Palace. Today, it is a beautiful place for a stroll or cycle!
HYDE PARK
Hyde Park is the largest park in London and has countless stunning areas, statues and memorials to visit!
MERCHANT SQUARE
Merchant Square has seen regeneration and the creation of a beautiful waterside garden square. In the centre of the square is the world’s first water maze! Kids will love trying to get through to the centre without getting wet (in summer of course)!
MADAME TUSSAUDS
Madame Tussauds Wax Museum is a great day out for the whole family. Make sure you have charged your camera, as there are over 300 wax figures to pose for photos and selfies with!
PADDINGTON BASIN BRIDGES
In the redeveloped Paddington Basin, the Rolling Bridge and Fan Bridge are a combination of art and functionality. On Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays both bridges open up in a unique way to allow boats through and then return to being pedestrian pathways! They are well worth a visit during their operating times!
PUPPET THEATRE BARGE
The Puppet Theatre is located on a converted barge and seats 55 people, with performances year round! The company aims to raise the profile and status of marionette performances!
SHELDON SQUARE
Take the canal towpath to Sheldon Square, a grassy amphitheatre surrounded by restaurants, outdoor free ping pong and free big screen shows during the summer!
Paddington is a fantastic place for travellers to make their temporary home base in London! When you are considering hotels in Paddington, you can make a great choice by staying at the Chilworth Paddington Hotel.
Our opinions are as always, our own.
