A guide to Paddington: Where to eat, stay and explore
Paddington is one of London’s best-connected neighbourhoods, combining leafy parks, historic charm, and a buzzing canalside vibe. Known worldwide as the home of Paddington Bear, it’s a lively central spot that blends peaceful green spaces with modern city energy.
With major transport links, waterside dining, boutique hotels, and a growing food scene, Paddington is a great place to live, stay, or spend a day exploring. Whether you’re a visitor or a local, there’s no shortage of great things to do in Paddington – from canal walks to quirky theatre shows.
Where is Paddington?
Paddington is a Zone 1 neighbourhood in the City of Westminster, covering the W2 postcode area. It’s just steps from Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens, Notting Hill, and Oxford Street – making it a quiet yet central base for living, commuting, or sightseeing.
Transport links
Paddington is a major travel hub with excellent local and international connections.
Tube
Paddington Station (Bakerloo, Circle, District, Hammersmith & City, Elizabeth): Direct trains to Oxford Circus, King’s Cross, Canary Wharf, and beyond. Heathrow is just 30 minutes away via the Elizabeth line or Heathrow Express.
Rail
Paddington Station offers fast trains to destinations across the UK, including Oxford, Reading, Bristol, Cardiff, and the South West.
Buses
Paddington is well served by routes like 7, 23, 27, and 205, with quick links to Euston, Liverpool Street, and Old Street.
Cycling
Cycle routes along Regent’s Canal, Grand Union Canal, and Cycle Superhighway 3 make Paddington super bike-friendly. You can cycle west to Little Venice or east toward Camden and King’s Cross.
Paddington isn’t a university district, but top institutions are close by:
University of Westminster, Marylebone – 20 minute walk.
OMNES Education London – 25 minute walk.
Royal Academy of Music – 30 min walk.
Westminster Business School – 20 min walk.
London Business School – 30 min walk.
Things to do in Paddington
Little Venice
Tranquil and scenic, Little Venice is a charming canalside pocket full of cafés, pubs, and boat life. Ideal for walks, paddleboarding, or lazy lunches by the water – and one of the best-loved things to do in Paddington.
Regent’s Canal walks
Head east on foot, bike, or narrowboat toward Camden Market or London Zoo. It’s a peaceful and scenic way to experience the city, and a perfect pick for anyone looking for relaxing things to do in Paddington.
Merchant Square
A modern canal hub with restaurants, bars, and pop-up food stalls on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Don’t miss the Water Maze – it’s great fun on a sunny day.
Puppet Theatre Barge
London’s only floating puppet theatre. This quirky 50-seat barge hosts magical marionette shows year-round. It’s one of the more unusual things to do in Paddington, and a great surprise find for first-time visitors.
Paddleboarding
Take a stand-up paddleboard ride along the calm canals around Paddington Basin – one of London’s best urban watersports spots.
Paddington Bear Statue
Found inside Paddington Station, this bronze statue of the beloved bear is a must-see photo op for fans of all ages.
Floating Pocket Park
A small green oasis on the water, perfect for a lunch break or quiet sit-down on a sunny day.
Where to eat and drink
Restaurants
The Summerhouse
A light, beachy spot right on the canal, known for fresh seafood and relaxed alfresco dining. Feels more seaside than central London.
Nipa Thai
Elegant Thai dining inside the Royal Lancaster Hotel, with high-end takes on authentic dishes like Pad Thai and Massaman Curry, served in stylish surroundings.
Hayat
A laid-back Mediterranean spot serving up hearty grilled meats, tagines, and mezze. Halal-friendly and perfect for groups or casual birthdays.
Casa Malevo
A Cosy Argentinian steakhouse with a rustic vibe. Think grass-fed beef, Malbecs, and classic empanadas in an unpretentious setting.
Darcie & May Green
Two eye-catching, pop art-painted barges moored on the Grand Union Canal. Darcie is your go-to for Aussie-style brunch, cocktails and dinner, while May offers private dining and events. Come for the colourful exterior, stay for the riverside vibes and great coffee.
Pubs
The Bridge House
A friendly neighbourhood pub with solid brunches, Sunday roasts, and board games. Other highlights include wine club Tuesdays and a warm, welcoming team.
The Bear
Paddington’s best-rated pub. Independent and family-owned, with craft beers, hearty food, and a subtle Paddington Bear theme that gives it charm without being kitsch.
Where to live
Looking for Paddington apartments to rent? Our apartments in and around Paddington come in a range of sizes and feature premium amenities like fully-equipped kitchens, co-working spaces, and outdoor balconies.
Paddington Student Suites
A prestigious collection of luxury studio, 1 and 2 bed apartments close to Hyde Park, with full-equipped kitchens, air-conditioning, and weekly housekeeping. The apartments also feature complimentary breakfast and a reception/concierge service.
Bayswater Hyde Park Apartments
Set across two serviced apartment buildings in nearby Bayswater, this property is ideal for students and professionals seeking a residential retreat in London. Its luxury 1,2, and 3 bed apartments feature floor-to-ceiling windows, fully equipped kitchens, and tasteful pops of color.
Cleveland Square Apartments
A beautiful selection of studio, 1,2 and 3 bed apartments with stylish living spaces, fully-equipped kitchens, and communal spaces for studying,working and socialising.
The apartments also boast outdoor balconies, air conditioning and CCTV security.
A little about us
With leafy parks, canalside living, and unbeatable transport, Paddington is the perfect mix of city buzz and calm retreat. Whether you're paddleboarding at lunch or catching a train somewhere, everything’s on your doorstep. From hidden gems to waterside walks, there are always new things to do in Paddington—whatever the weather or time of year.
Looking for a place to stay in Paddington? Our all-inclusive apartments offer luxury, flexibility, and everything you need – ideal for students, professionals, or long-term visitors who want to live well in central London.
