Do you know Paddington?

Paddington Station: Gateway to the West

The name Paddington itself evolved from an Anglo Saxon resident Padda, who ruled over a small settlement (called a ‘tun’). Padda’s tun eventually transformed into, you guessed it, Paddington. The station itself was developed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel, who, at 27, was commissioned to establish a rail link between Bristol and London, and hence, the Great Western Railway was established, where it and its successors have been since. The station as we know it today was built in 1854, and was modelled after the Crystal Palace. It’s home to the first underground line, which ran between Paddington and Farringdon, and the store where Michael Bond bought the bear that would inspire the children’s story. It will also be one of the stations that the Elizabeth line will connect to, meaning a quicker commute!

Paddington Basin

Completely different from the rest of the area is the Paddington Basin. Surrounded on both sides of this basin are large, modern offices that house several restaurants and stores for day trippers to visit. At night you can enjoy the quiet canal, illuminated from wayward office lights. The buildings close their entrances to the basin, so you’ll have to take the bridge towards Paddington, but this means you are guaranteed peace and quiet.

Little Venice

Before the railways took over London, canals were the go-to transportation for goods. Little Venice itself, the point where Regent’s Canal meets the Grand Union Canal, is just a few minutes away from Paddington station. Though who started the moniker “Little Venice” is disputed, the beautiful walk and colourful houseboats truly do make this waterway feel like London’s own version of Venice. If you are up for a walk, we suggest a two-mile stroll to Camden Lock. It will take approximately an hour to complete and takes you along Regents Park and offers a glimpse of the London Zoo. If you aren’t up for the walk, there is a waterbus that operates in the area, calling at Regent’s Park, London Zoo, and Camden Town. The area also includes restaurants, shops, theatres, and pubs for you to enjoy.

Sheldon Square Amphitheatre

The Sheldon Square Amphitheatre is an open space that is quite the popular spot for lunch. Not only is it shaped in a classical amphitheatre style, each level is topped with grass for extra comfort. In the summer you can lounge in chairs set out and enjoy the weather. The area boasts many restaurants and cafés, meaning whatever you’re in the mood for, chances are you’ll find it! Not only that, but who doesn’t love the Paddington Bear? As you’re enjoying your lunch try and spot him! He’s hiding between two of the buildings, right next to the wonderful café, Beany Green.

If those aren’t enough, Paddington is also within walking distance of the beautiful Bayswater area, Hyde Park’s Italian Gardens, and, of course, Notting Hill. This means that you can easily extend your trip to include a walk down the infamous Portobello Road Market! Pick something out for us on your way there, though, okay?