London's Paddington neighbourhood offers a balance of city buzz and lush green spaces. Whether you're enjoying the eclectic mix of restaurants and cafes, gazing at narrow boats floating in Little Venice, or meandering through the stylish new architecture of Paddington Basin, you'll find plenty to do amongst old-world charm and modern conveniences.
Famous for its innovative transportation links – including Paddington Station and the speedy Heathrow express – you'll have no problem exploring the far corners of London. But there's no need to venture too far from your home base to find the perfect balance of culture, history, great food and nightlife. Here are a few of Bob's favourite Paddington spots.
See all this guide’s places on our interactive Google Map.
Restaurants and places to eat
Bondi Green
Located on the picturesque Regents Canal, Bondi Green is the flagship restaurant of the Daisy Green Collection. If you think that means it's a chain, think again. Each restaurant is unique, with the common thread being good service and even better food. Bondi has a rustic and botanical feel, with industrial high ceilings and ample space for business or pleasure.
Tuck into delicious brunch options, or later in the day, enjoy open-flame robata meats or pizzas from the wood-fired oven. With heated alfresco dining overlooking the canal, venture to the terrace for a cold tank beer or glass of cool climate Aussie wine.
Merchant's Square Food Trucks
If you want to grab a delicious bite to eat and keep exploring, street food is the answer. A little oasis hidden from traffic and the major hustle of the city, Merchant's Square is where you'll find a funky row of food trucks to appease your appetite. Mouthwatering global creations such as Mexican burritos, Asian rice bowls, Lebanese falafel, Tibetan delights, American-style burgers and gourmet coffee are all there for the taking.
The Cheese Barge
Serving only real British Cheese that supports farmers and rural communities, The Cheese Barge takes dairy to new, mouthwatering levels. Whether you're dipping into an oozy fondue or ordering a cheese board that's perfectly paired with jams, mustards and compotes, this is an idyllic spot to get your cheese fix. This 96-foot double-decker vessel is moored on The Regent’s Canal, they are open for lunch, dinner and 'Afternoon Cheese'. Booking ahead is advised.
Cafes and breakfast
Les Filles
Les Filles is a cafe with all the positive vibes you look for in the morning. They embrace wellness with healthy dishes, smoothie bowls and fresh juices, yet encourage you to indulge in the sweet treat you deserve. With plenty of gluten-free and vegan options, you're sure to find something you'll love.
Bob is proud to have Les Filles as a partner and friend, with discount breakfast passes available for Bob W guests. It's just a three-minute walk from your short-stay accommodation, so you can fill up the tank and then stroll over to Hyde Park for a morning walk. It's a local favourite, so consider calling ahead to reserve a table.
Harrison's Coffee
This independent coffee shop serves an excellent cup of coffee, and that might be all you need to know. But we love a good international mingle, and Harrison's on Spring Street is where London meets Chile. Their menu includes Chilean classics such as empanadas and mil hojas cake, and everything is homemade.
Harrison’s is super close to Paddington Station, so you can pop in and grab a joe-to-go before catching the train. Otherwise, make your way to their cosy downstairs and stay a while.
Bars, pubs, and nightlife
Pergola's rooftop terrace
Pergola has lots of open space and a large rooftop terrace that's perfect for big groups or making new friends. Located a stone's throw from the canals and food trucks, it's a lively evening hangout in central Paddington.
Pergola's rooftop terrace has long, communal tables and a festive atmosphere with seasonal themes. The global menu and extensive drink selection can transport you to a tropical beach during summer or a European Christmas Market during winter. It's hours of fun and escapism at its best.
Heist Bank
Heist Bank in Merchant's Square is a self-proclaimed playground for grownups. Whether you're there for the art, vintage video games - like classic Nintendo 64 - or the delicious pizza and draft beer, you'll be smiling from ear to ear in a matter of minutes. Oh, and did we mention karaoke and DJ vinyl nights?
There are plenty of cosy nooks and private crannies to reserve for a group gathering. They will gladly take walk-ins if there's space, but it can get busy, so it's recommended to make a booking before stopping by.
Old Mary's Cocktail Bar
This atmospheric, speak-easy bar serves craft beer and Instagram-worthy, creative and colourful cocktails. Old Mary's also mixes up barrel-aged concoctions in a cask if you want to try something different.
From Bob W Hyde Park accommodation, walk towards Kensington Gardens and you'll find this gem tucked away below the Mitre pub, a handsome grade II listed building dating back to 1850. They're open late Wednesday to Sunday, and occasionally host comedy shows or live music.
Culture
London Paddington Railway Station
London Paddington Railway Station is a convenient six-minute walk from Bob W Hyde Park. The best part about this is the ease of getting around, with regional trains to the south and west of the country, speedy links to Heathrow Airport, and multiple tube lines that crisscross all over the city.
The station's full name is a mouthful, so Londoners simply call it Paddington, and like many places in London, it has a long history. The name dates back to Anglo-Saxon times - so nope, it wasn't named after the bear - actually, vice-versa (see below). Built by Isambard Kingdom Brunel as the end-of-the-line of The Great Western Railway, it originally opened in 1838, and was the terminus of Queen Victoria's first-ever train ride.
Paddington Bear Statue
Paddington Bear first appeared in children's books in 1958 and has been one of Britain's favourite fictional characters ever since. He got his name because he turned up at Paddington Station after a long journey from 'Darkest Peru'. The life-sized Paddington Bear Statue at Paddington Station is a fun and cute photo op, especially for kids.
There are other places in London where you will see Paddington Bear statues (including a bench in Leicester Square where he's eating a marmalade sandwich), but what's better than seeing Paddington at the station that is synonymous with his name?
The Puppet Theatre Barge
If you love the idea of experiencing an old art form in a fun and unique venue, the Puppet Theatre Barge is a lovely day out for all ages. Located in Little Venice, you'll watch a marionette puppet show within a small theatre in the cabin of a converted Thames Barge. The theatre is open year-round, with heating in the winter and fans in the summer.
Most shows are for all ages unless otherwise noted for being for older audiences. They last about an hour with a 10-minute intermission when you can find refreshments served on board.
Canal Cafe Theatre
This intimate theatre in Little Venice hosts live performances you won't find anywhere else. Canal Cafe Theatre has won awards and launched the careers of multiple comedians and actors over the years. They host about seven shows each week, at affordable prices, in a setting that seats 60. Housed in a lovely old mansion above a pub, grab a drink and slink into a red velvet chair to await the curtain to roll back. Then, enjoy the show.
Shopping
Church Street Market
Open from Monday to Saturday from 8 am to 6 pm, Church Street Market is worth a wander for a legit London street market experience. There has been a market in this location for hundreds of years, and you can feel the authenticity that oozes from each colourful stall.
Stock up on food items at the fruit, veg and fish stands or make your way towards the other eclectic goods. You'll find new and second-hand clothing, household goods, luggage, leather items, accessories, jewellery and hot food as you stroll.
Alfie's Antique Market
If you're at Church Street Market, just two minutes up the road is a bohemian indoor market hosting an eclectic range of antiques, vintage items and retro stalls. Alfie's Antique Market is a labyrinth of art deco, containing up to 100 independent antique dealers.
When you tire from bargain hunting, there’s a rooftop café where you can relax and enjoy a bit of sun. Alfies Antique Market and The Rooftop Kitchen are open Tuesday to Saturday 10 am to 6 pm.
Sports, wellness and parks
Kensington Gardens
Less than a 10-minute walk from Bob W Hyde Park, you enter Kensington Gardens at the stunning Italian Gardens, believed to have been a gift from Prince Albert to his beloved Queen Victoria.
Within the Kensington Gardens, you’ll find several cafes and kiosks, the super popular Diana Memorial Playground and, of course, the royal residence of Kensington Palace. You can tour the palace or make a booking at The Orangery, an elegant and cheerful pavilion open for breakfast, lunch and high tea.
Hyde Park
Hyde Park is where joggers, dog walkers and commuters share space with visitors to admire the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain, brave an open water swim in the Serpentine, or simply gaze out at views from one of the multiple park benches or cafés.
Iconic, big and beautiful Hyde Park is not only a fabulous place to stretch your legs but there are often activities and events happening within its borders. So, be sure to check the event schedule before you visit.
Little Venice
Found in the northern part of the Paddington neighbourhood, Little Venice is where Grand Union and Regent’s canals meet. This tranquil spot of waterways is a lovely place to explore any time of year. Beautiful narrow boats line the embankment and remind you of a time when these canals played an imperative role in transportation.
Duck into waterside cafes, cosy pubs and charming restaurants, or take in the scenery from the water by renting a boat or joining a cruise.
Paddington Basin and the Floating Pocket Park
With glass glimmering from all angles, Paddington Basin is a pedestrian area where you can walk along - or float upon - the canal. This space combines office buildings, apartments, restaurants, and boat and paddleboard rentals to create a lively community atmosphere.
This is where you'll find the innovative Rolling Bridge and Fan Bridge, which creatively roll and fold up to allow boats to pass. You can also make your way towards the end of the basin to relax at the Floating Pocket Park, which hosts film screenings, musical performances and a floating gin bar during the summer months.
PureGym London Bayswater
You won't miss your workout when you stay at Bob W Hyde Park because you get complimentary access to Puregym London Bayswater, which is just a ten-minute walk away. It's a great compliment to all the walking or jogging you can do in the leafy neighbourhood parks.
Accommodation
Bob W Hyde Park
Whether you’re staying in London for a night or a month, Bob W Hyde Park, conveniently situated near Paddington Railway Station, is the ideal spot to enjoy the city like a local. Get complimentary access to PureGym Bayswater and fixed-price Breakfast Passes from Les Filles, both located just steps away from Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park. For the best rates and perks, you won’t find anywhere else, book directly on Bobw.co
