Paddington Station is one of the busiest and most well-known railway stations in London. It serves as a major transportation hub, connecting passengers to different parts of the city and beyond. If you’re planning to visit London or just curious about the station’s location, you might be wondering: what part of London is Paddington Station in?
Paddington Station: Location and History
Paddington Station is located in the City of Westminster, one of the 32 boroughs that make up Greater London. Specifically, it sits in the northern part of Westminster, near the border with the borough of Kensington and Chelsea.
The station has a rich history that dates back to 1838 when it was first opened by the Great Western Railway company. The original station building was designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel, one of the most famous engineers of his time. Over the years, Paddington Station has been expanded and modernized to accommodate increasing numbers of passengers and trains.
Getting to Paddington Station
As mentioned earlier, Paddington Station is a major transportation hub in London. It is served by several modes of transport including:
- Underground: The station is served by four London Underground lines – Bakerloo, Circle, District, and Hammersmith & City.
- National Rail: Paddington is also a terminus for several National Rail services including Great Western Railway (GWR) trains to destinations in southwest England and South Wales.
- Heathrow Express: A dedicated airport express train service connects Heathrow Airport with Paddington in just 15 minutes.
- Buses: Several bus routes stop at or near Paddington Station.
Things to Do Near Paddington Station
If you find yourself with some time to spare before catching your train or after arriving at Paddington, there are plenty of things to see and do in the area. Here are just a few suggestions:
Visit Hyde Park
Hyde Park is one of London’s largest and most famous parks, located just a short walk from Paddington Station. It features beautiful gardens, lakes, and fountains, as well as several landmarks including the Serpentine Bridge and the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain.
Explore Little Venice
Little Venice is a charming neighborhood located just north of Paddington Station. It is known for its picturesque canals, narrowboats, and waterside cafes. You can take a leisurely boat ride along the canals or simply enjoy a stroll along the towpath.
Shop at Oxford Street
Oxford Street is one of London’s busiest shopping destinations, featuring hundreds of stores ranging from high-end boutiques to budget-friendly chains. It’s only a short tube ride away from Paddington Station on the Central Line.
Conclusion
In summary, Paddington Station is located in the northern part of Westminster, near the border with Kensington and Chelsea. It is easily accessible by several modes of transport including underground, National Rail, Heathrow Express, and buses. If you find yourself with some time to spare in the area, there are plenty of things to see and do nearby including visiting Hyde Park, exploring Little Venice or shopping at Oxford Street.