A buzzing pocket of Central London, Paddington lies a stone’s throw away from the delights of Theatreland, Mayfair, Notting Hill, and Marble Arch.
But did you know that there is a wealth of hidden gems to see, explore, and experience in the area?
Chill Out on the Canal in the Paddington Basin
The Paddington Basin marks the end of the Grand Union Canal in central London and has undergone substantial renovation in recent years. Lovely walks combine with shops and cafes to make this an area well worth seeking out. Hire a boat complete with a picnic table to enjoy a chilled meal on the water.
Make sure you see the two incredible bridges located in the Paddington Basin, including the Rolling Bridge which unfurls every Friday to span across the water. A recent addition is the striking floating park, a public green space to walk around on the water.
Check out The Alexander Fleming Museum
Here you can marvel at Alexander Fleming’s laboratory, restored to its former 1928 glory, and explore the man’s incredible discovery and development of penicillin through a number of inspiring displays and videos.
Soak up some stand-up at The Canal Cafe Theatre
This revered venue that hugs the contours of the Regent’s Canal hosts some of the biggest and best names in comedy night after night, in addition to an ever-rolling mix of budding comedians looking to make their mark.
The theatre’s intimate vibe boasts the ambiance of an olden days Chicago jazz joint and with an eclectic mix of shows and performances on the menu all year round, you’re sure to connect with something special.
Oh, and afterward, you can head downstairs and enjoy another pint or two at The Bridge House pub.
Sit around Merchant Square
Many people overlook London as a picnic destination but locals or regulars know different.
As many Londoners aren’t blessed with gardens, a great deal of investment is placed into creating and maintaining open public spaces throughout the capital – and Paddington’s Merchant Square is no exception.
Grab a selection of snacks from a nearby shop, pull out your marmalade sandwiches, and pull up a pew for a picnic surrounded by the majesty of Merchant Square – al fresco dining at its finest, come rain or shine.
Hop aboard the Puppet Theatre Barge
This 50-seater marionette theatre – that sits on the Regent’s Canal – boasts bundles of floating fun, with a regular roster of puppet shows, all performed to perfection in a setting unlike any other.
Check out the Puppet Theatre Barge’s calendar of events and book yourself into a show as part of your big day out.
Try a signature cocktail at Heist Bank
fine Paddington public house, Heist Bank serves sumptuous sourdough pizzas, an endless choice of craft beers, signature cocktails and boasts a terrace that overlooks a pretty section of the legendary Grand Union Canal.
A wonderful place to enjoy a slice and a tipple, or two.
Eat, drink, and be merry at The Waterway
Head back over to Little Venice for some much-needed fuel at The Waterway pub & restaurant.
Sit in the warmth of this inviting London gastro pub and enjoy a plate of hearty fayre, plus a few tipples over iconic views of one of the UK’s most celebrated sections of the canal – a reasonably-priced venue considering the quality of the food and its idyllic location.
Embark on Paddington’s ‘Pawprint’ Trail
“All the same … it’s a very important name. And I don’t expect there are many bears in the world called Paddington!” – Paddington Bear (Michael Bond)
No visit to Paddington would be complete without an activity involving a certain famous bear, so the Pawprint Trail seems like a logical place to start.
Launched in 2014 by the Paddington Partnership, the Pawprint Trail takes in the most iconic sights and sounds linked to all of those timeless Paddington Bear books, animations, and motion pictures.
Start at The Paddington Bear shop at London Paddington Station and embark on a miniature adventure that will stay with you for years to come – camera at the ready.