Paddington is mostly known for its central train station and its connection to the lovable Paddington Bear, but few people realise just how much there is to see and do in this quaint area of London. If you’re staying in accommodation in Paddington, London, here are 10 of the top things you can experience in the local area.
Visit Merchant Square
Recently redeveloped, Merchant Square is now a focal point of the Paddington area and features the unique water maze. Challenge yourself to walk through without getting wet! Alternatively, play table tennis or grab a bite to eat at one of the restaurants or street market stalls dotted around the area.
Paddleboard along the canal
If you’re in the Merchant Square area, consider hiring a paddleboard or doing paddleboard yoga. It’s a great way to get in touch with the water and escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
See Heatherwick’s Rolling Bridge
Heatherwick’s Rolling Bridge was completed in 2004 and remains a fascinating part of Paddington. The bridge curls in a unique motion to allow canal boats through. It’s unlike any other bridge in London and spans an impressive 12 metres. It’s well worth scheduling in time to see it in action.
Play ping pong at Sheldon Square
Leave the comfort of your room at the Park Hotel Paddington London and settle down at the Sheldon Square amphitheatre for an afternoon of free ping pong in the sunshine with friends.
Visit Paddington Bear
No visit to Paddington would be complete without admiring the bronze statue of the character at Paddington Mainline Station.
Explore Alexander Fleming’s laboratory
Alexander Fleming is one of the greatest medical pioneers of all time, and his original Paddington laboratory has been restored to its original glory and opened to the public, so why go and see the room where penicillin was discovered?
Walk along Little Venice
Little Venice offers romantic strolls through West London in a way you haven’t seen before. Looking for breakfast in Paddington? Head to one of the waterside cafes and enjoy a meal with a view before continuing your walk.
Watch a show on the Puppet Theatre Barge
If you’ve got little ones to keep entertained, watch a show at the Puppet Theatre Barge. As the name suggests, this 50-seat barge puts on puppet shows for children and is moored in Paddington for the majority of the year.
Visit the Canal Café Theatre
If you’re looking for a more adult show, consider watching a show at the Canal Café Theatre. With just 60 seats, this fringe theatre offers an intimate comedy experience just a stones throw from the popular hotels near Paddington, London, meaning you don’t need to go far to be entertained.
Go on the Pawprint Trail
This is another great option if you have children, or if you simply love Paddington Bear. The Pawprint Trail was originally launched in 2014 to raise money for the NSPCC, but you can still hunt for multiple statues of Paddington Bear when you’re close to the train station.
