Paddington Basin
A modern canal basin in west London where historic waterways meet sleek architecture, waterside dining, and a relaxed urban vibe.
Paddington Basin is a long, modern canal basin in west London, where historic waterways meet sleek contemporary architecture. Once a bustling transshipment hub, it’s now a lively waterside destination lined with restaurants, bars, offices, and moored barges. The basin forms part of the Grand Union Canal’s Paddington Arm, just east of the picturesque Little Venice. It’s a popular spot for a relaxed stroll, a waterside meal, or simply watching boats glide past against a backdrop of glass towers and colorful houseboats.
A brief summary to Paddington Basin
- London, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit in the late afternoon or early evening to enjoy the basin at its most atmospheric, with golden light on the water and the surrounding buildings lit up.
- Combine a walk along the basin with a stroll to nearby Little Venice, about a 10-minute walk west, for a longer waterside route.
- Look out for the Rolling Bridge and Fan Bridge, two distinctive modern structures that add a sculptural quality to the canal.
- Check opening times for waterside restaurants and bars, as some may have seasonal or limited hours, especially in winter.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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London Underground
From Paddington Underground station, follow signs for the Grand Union Canal or Little Venice; the basin is about a 5–7 minute walk along the towpath or nearby streets.
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London Underground
From Edgware Road Underground station, head south towards the canal; Paddington Basin is roughly a 6–8 minute walk from the station exit.
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Walking
From Little Venice, follow the Grand Union Canal towpath east; Paddington Basin begins about 500 metres along, taking roughly 10 minutes at a leisurely pace.
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National Rail
From Paddington mainline station, exit towards the canal side and walk along the towpath or adjacent streets; the basin is a 5–7 minute walk from the station.
Paddington Basin location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Clear Skies
Discover more about Paddington Basin
A slice of London’s canal heritage
Paddington Basin is a long, narrow canal arm of the Grand Union Canal, stretching east from the junction known as Little Venice. Opened in 1801, it was originally a major transshipment point where goods arriving by canal were transferred to road transport along the New Road (now the Marylebone Road). In its industrial heyday, the basin teemed with activity, serving as a vital link in London’s commercial network. Today, that working past has given way to a more leisurely rhythm, but the waterway still pulses with life, connecting Paddington’s transport hub to the wider canal network.Modern waterside living and working
Over recent decades, the area around the basin has been transformed into a mixed-use district of offices, apartments, shops, and leisure spaces. The surrounding developments, including Merchant Square and modern office blocks, blend contemporary architecture with the historic canal setting. The basin itself is lined with moored barges, some converted into restaurants and bars, while the towpaths have become popular promenades for pedestrians and cyclists. This blend of old and new makes Paddington Basin a distinctive urban waterscape, where glass towers reflect in the water alongside traditional narrowboats.A place to stroll, dine, and unwind
The towpaths around the basin are ideal for a relaxed walk, offering views of the water, moored boats, and the surrounding architecture. Restaurants and cafés along the banks serve everything from casual bites to more refined dining, often with outdoor seating that makes the most of the waterside setting. The area is especially pleasant in the evening, when lights from the buildings and boats shimmer on the canal. It’s a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike to enjoy a drink, a meal, or simply to pause and watch the slow passage of boats along this historic waterway.Part of a wider canal network
Paddington Basin is an integral part of London’s canal system, forming the Paddington Arm of the Grand Union Canal. To the west, it connects to the junction at Little Venice, a picturesque meeting point of the Regent’s Canal and the Grand Union Canal, known for its colorful houseboats and waterside cafés. From there, boats can head west towards Maida Vale and beyond, or east towards Paddington Station and the heart of London. This connectivity makes the basin not just a local landmark, but a node in a broader network of urban waterways that continue to be used for leisure boating and tourism.Architecture and atmosphere
The basin’s surroundings showcase a mix of historic canal infrastructure and modern urban design. The towpaths, once used by horses pulling barges, are now paved walkways lined with benches and greenery. Nearby, contemporary office and residential buildings contrast with the low-rise, industrial character of the old basin. Bridges such as the Rolling Bridge and Fan Bridge add a sculptural quality to the area, while the moored barges and houseboats contribute a colorful, lived-in feel. The overall atmosphere is one of calm activity: a working waterway that has also become a destination for relaxation and socializing.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Paddington Partnership
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant community and rich culture of Paddington through the initiatives of The Paddington Partnership, a hub for local engagement and development.
Sussex Gardens
0.6 km
A serene Victorian garden oasis nestled in the historic Tyburnia district, blending lush greenery with elegant architecture in central London.
Edward Jenner Memorial
0.9 km
Victorian marble tribute to the physician who conquered smallpox and invented vaccination.
Speke Monument
1.1 km
A Victorian obelisk in Kensington Gardens honouring explorer John Hanning Speke, who identified Lake Victoria as the source of the Nile.
The Old Police House
1.3 km
Historic police station and visitor hub nestled in the heart of Hyde Park, blending heritage with the tranquility of London’s iconic green space.
Speakers' Corner
1.3 km
Historic Speakers' Corner in Hyde Park: London's iconic open-air forum for free speech and public debate since the 19th century.
London Central Mosque
1.3 km
London's iconic Islamic cultural landmark blending spiritual tradition with modern community engagement.
Space Apart Hotel
1.3 km
Modern serviced apartments in historic Kensington Gardens Square, offering stylish comfort and easy access to London’s top attractions.
Norwegian War Memorial
1.4 km
A solemn granite tribute in Hyde Park honoring British-Norwegian friendship and support during World War II.
Former EMI House (Beatles album cover photo)
1.4 km
Where The Beatles' iconic Please Please Me album cover was photographed in 1963.
3 Abbey Rd.
1.6 km
World-famous recording studio in London where The Beatles and many legends crafted music history since 1931.
5 Abbey Rd.
1.6 km
World’s oldest purpose-built recording studio and iconic Beatles landmark in London’s St John’s Wood.
Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral
1.7 km
A historic London landmark blending Alfred Waterhouse’s architecture with vibrant Ukrainian Catholic tradition in the heart of Mayfair.
Roosevelt Memorial
1.7 km
A dignified tribute to Franklin D. Roosevelt in the historic heart of London’s Grosvenor Square, symbolizing enduring Anglo-American friendship.
Park Ln
1.7 km
London's most prestigious boulevard: where centuries of history meet contemporary luxury beside Hyde Park.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Fan Bridge
0.1 km
A captivating kinetic footbridge at Paddington Basin that opens like a Japanese fan, blending engineering brilliance with artistic design.
Paddington Bear Statue
0.4 km
Meet Paddington Bear at his iconic London station home, a bronze tribute to kindness, migration, and British cultural heritage.
2 Eastbourne Terrace
0.5 km
Prime Paddington office space with flexible work environments, top amenities, and unbeatable transport links opposite Paddington Station.
Grosvenor Casino, The Victoria
0.5 km
Experience premier gaming, fine dining, and vibrant social scenes at London’s iconic Grosvenor Casino The Victoria on Edgware Road.
The Cockpit
0.7 km
Intimate in-the-round theatre in Marylebone offering cutting-edge performances and a vibrant creative community.
Jason's Trips Ltd
0.8 km
Historic narrowboat cruises reveal London's hidden waterways and 200 years of canal heritage.
The Swan, Hyde Park
0.8 km
Experience the charm of The Swan, a quintessential London pub near Hyde Park, offering delicious food and stunning views in a vibrant atmosphere.
St Mary's Church, Bryanston Square
0.8 km
Discover the architectural beauty and serene atmosphere of St Mary's Church in Bryanston Square, a must-visit historical landmark in London.
Italian Gardens
0.9 km
Explore the stunning Italian Gardens in Kensington Gardens, a serene escape in London featuring classical design, beautiful fountains, and vibrant floral displays.
Lancaster Gate
0.9 km
Elegant Victorian terraces bordering Hyde Park, offering tranquil sophistication and superb access to London’s cultural heart.
Montagu Square
1.0 km
A grand Georgian garden square in Marylebone, famous for its elegant architecture and as the former home of John Lennon, Ringo Starr and Jimi Hendrix.
Frameless Immersive Art Experience
1.0 km
Step inside iconic artworks at Frameless, London’s immersive art experience where technology and creativity unite to mesmerize and inspire.
Moco Museum London
1.1 km
Immersive modern and contemporary art experience featuring iconic masters and digital innovations at London's vibrant Marble Arch.
Baker St
1.2 km
Step into Victorian London at the world's first literary character museum, where Sherlock Holmes' iconic address comes alive.
The Sherlock Holmes Museum
1.2 km
Step inside the legendary detective’s Victorian home and immerse yourself in the world of Sherlock Holmes at 221B Baker Street.
Essential places to dine
London Shell Co. - The Prince Regent
0.4 km
Savor exceptional British seafood aboard a charming canal barge cruising the historic Regent's Canal in Central London.
Cocotte Notting Hill
1.4 km
Experience authentic French rotisserie chicken in a cozy, farm-to-table setting on vibrant Westbourne Grove, Notting Hill.
104 Restaurant by Richard Wilkins
1.6 km
A refined modern French gem in Notting Hill offering intimate dining, exquisite tasting menus, and impeccable service in a cozy setting.
Apricity Restaurant
1.6 km
Sustainable fine dining in Mayfair blending seasonal British produce with innovative, low-waste culinary artistry.
Granger and Co. Notting Hill
1.7 km
Experience vibrant Australian flavors all day in a sunny, welcoming setting at Granger and Co. Notting Hill on Westbourne Grove.
The Shed
1.8 km
A rustic, family-run gem in Notting Hill serving sustainable, farm-to-table British cuisine with a warm, unpretentious atmosphere.
The Ledbury
1.9 km
Experience world-class Modern European fine dining in Notting Hill at The Ledbury, a 3-Michelin-starred culinary gem blending British ingredients with French elegance.
The Punch Bowl
1.9 km
Historic Mayfair gastropub where three centuries of character meet contemporary British cuisine and award-winning hospitality.
Dinner by Heston Blumenthal
2.0 km
Experience two Michelin-starred historic British cuisine reimagined with modern artistry at Dinner by Heston Blumenthal in the heart of Knightsbridge.
Spaghetti House Italian Restaurant Kensington High Street
2.1 km
Authentic Italian flavors and cozy charm await at Spaghetti House on Kensington High Street, perfect for casual dining in central London.
Alexandrie Restaurant
2.1 km
Experience authentic Egyptian flavors and elegant dining in the heart of Kensington with Alexandrie’s refined Mediterranean cuisine.
Prezzo Italian Restaurant London Kensington
2.1 km
Cozy Italian dining in the heart of Kensington with classic pasta, pizza, and family-friendly options in a stylish, relaxed setting.
Portland
2.1 km
Michelin-starred modern European dining in Fitzrovia, blending seasonal British ingredients with refined, creative flavors in an intimate setting.
Gold
2.1 km
Stylish modern European dining with wood-roasted seasonal plates and inventive cocktails on iconic Portobello Road in vibrant Notting Hill.
Zuaya London
2.1 km
Discover modern Latin American cuisine with vibrant flavors, stylish ambiance, and exceptional cocktails in the heart of Kensington.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Church Street Market
0.6 km
A bustling multicultural market in Westminster offering fresh produce, antiques, street food, and vibrant local culture from Monday to Saturday.
London Beatles Store
1.2 km
A vibrant Beatles memorabilia haven on Baker Street celebrating the timeless legacy of the Fab Four.
The London Shop
1.2 km
Friendly and affordable gift shop in vibrant Queensway, London, open daily with a welcoming atmosphere and great souvenirs.
Kensington Palace Shop
1.8 km
Discover regal treasures at Kensington Palace Shop: fine china, jewellery, and exclusive souvenirs inspired by centuries of royal elegance in London's premier palace grounds.
Disney Store
1.8 km
Step into a world of magic and imagination at the Disney Store on Oxford Street, where every corner is filled with fan-favorite treasures and exclusive collectibles.
Melt Chocolates
1.9 km
Handcrafted luxury chocolates and immersive chocolate-making experiences in Notting Hill's most charming boutique.
Thomas Goode & Co
1.9 km
Two centuries of royal patronage and uncompromising luxury in London's most prestigious chinaware emporium.
Appletree boutique
1.9 km
A small Notting Hill boutique specialising in retro‑inspired prints, colourful womenswear and standout accessories for playful, individual styling.
The gift store
1.9 km
Discover quirky handmade crafts and Notting Hill treasures at this vibrant Pembridge Road gem, where every shelf holds a unique story from London's creative heart.
Notting hill store
1.9 km
Explore Notting Hill's local convenience store, your one-stop shop for groceries, unique souvenirs, and reliable luggage storage.
RETRO GIFTS RETAIL
2.0 km
Discover nostalgic treasures at Retro Gifts Retail on Portobello Road—retro charms, quirky novelties, and market magic in Notting Hill's vibrant heart.
Portobello Gifts Shop London
2.0 km
Retro souvenirs and nostalgic trinkets on Notting Hill's iconic Portobello Road—a treasure hunt for affordable London mementos amid market vibrancy.
Urban Outfitters
2.1 km
Trendy threads and eclectic home vibes on London's iconic Kensington High Street – Urban Outfitters delivers boho-chic shopping with a creative edge.
Good
2.1 km
Discover timeless designer vintage at Good, where Kensington Church Street's charm meets sustainable high fashion in a curated second-hand paradise.
Harvey Nichols
2.1 km
Discover timeless luxury and cutting-edge fashion at Harvey Nichols, Knightsbridge’s iconic department store since 1831.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Dickens Tavern
0.3 km
Classic British pub with hearty fare and ales, nestled in Paddington’s vibrant heart near London Paddington Station.
The Victoria, Paddington
0.6 km
Step into The Victoria, Paddington, a historic Victorian pub blending timeless charm, rich heritage, and refined British dining in a warm, inviting setting.
The Churchill Bar & Terrace
1.2 km
Sophisticated cocktail bar and terrace in central London, blending classic British charm with modern elegance and a vibrant social scene.
Purl London
1.3 km
Discover Purl London, a speakeasy-style cocktail bar in Marylebone offering expertly crafted drinks in a cozy vintage setting.
The Walmer Castle
1.8 km
Historic Notting Hill pub revived with cosy fires, seasonal British dishes, and a stellar drinks list – a true neighbourhood gem since 1845.
The Sun In Splendour
1.9 km
Historic Notting Hill pub with yellow charm, hearty fare, craft pours, and a secret garden haven on bustling Portobello Road.
The Henderson Bar & Kitchen
1.9 km
Notting Hill's carnival-inspired bar serving twisted British classics from breakfast to cocktails on a sunny terrace—honoring Russ Henderson's legacy.
The Quiet Night Inn
1.9 km
Lively Notting Hill pub with roof terrace, local brews, games, live sports, and open mic nights—perfect for casual hangs and private events.
The Churchill Arms, Kensington
2.0 km
London's floral-festooned pub icon: Churchill memorabilia, pioneering Thai eats, and blooming facades since 1750 in vibrant Kensington.
Piano Kensington
2.0 km
Live piano requests, cocktails and casual late-night bites in the Royal Garden Hotel — a music-led, relaxed Kensington night out.
Stables Bar
2.0 km
Elegant Kensington cocktail haven in a former stable, blending equestrian heritage with inventive mixology and cosy conservatory vibes opposite lush gardens.
Bar 190
2.1 km
Experience London’s legendary rock ’n’ roll cocktail bar with classic Victorian charm and expertly crafted drinks at Bar 190.
AMARO BAR - London
2.1 km
Elegant Kensington cocktail bar blending Savoy mastery with inventive twists, vintage rarities, and intimate speakeasy charm on High Street.
The Little Yellow Door
2.1 km
Notting Hill's quirky flatshare bar where cocktails flow from teacups, games spark laughs, and every night feels like a spontaneous house party in a colorful home.
The Earl of Lonsdale
2.1 km
Step into Victorian Notting Hill pub charm at The Earl of Lonsdale, where etched glass, duck-under doors, and Yellow Earl lore create an unmissable Samuel Smith's haven amid Portobello buzz.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Privilege Entertainment Ltd
0.7 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife at Privilege Entertainment Ltd, London's premier entertainment agency and nightclub, where unforgettable experiences await.
Notting Hill Arts Club
1.8 km
West London's sweaty basement cradle of music legends since '97—coffee by day, live gigs and club nights till 2am in an intimate den of funk, jazz, and raw talent.
The Globe
1.9 km
Traditional London pub by day, lively late‑night bar and club by night—large, hireable rooms and a warm, characterful interior.
Carwash Nightclub
2.0 km
Europe's longest-running disco since 1989: sequins, funk beats, and joyful dancing in Mayfair's retro heart. Join the glitter-fueled party!
Metric
2.0 km
A compact, collegiate nightclub beneath Imperial College’s Beit Quadrangle — lively student nights, intimate dancefloor and a campus-centred party vibe.
Subteranian
2.2 km
A compact underground club on Acklam Road delivering dense, DJ-led electronic nights with an intimate, bass-heavy atmosphere.
The Duke of Wellington
2.2 km
Historic Young's pub on Portobello Road: Victorian screens, market views, British roasts, and Notting Hill legends in every pint.
Electric House
2.2 km
Experience the vibrant social scene at Electric House, a chic social club in Notting Hill, London, blending style, comfort, and culinary delights.
LUXX CLUB LONDON
2.4 km
Experience Mayfair’s premier luxury nightclub with dazzling lights, top DJs, and exclusive VIP vibes at LUXX CLUB LONDON.
Tabu London
2.5 km
Escape Mayfair's polish for Tokyo's neon-lit Shinjuku alleys at Tabu London—retro gaming vibes, caged dancers, hip-hop beats, and upscale bites fuel epic nights.
Bordello London
2.6 km
Dive into Soho's seductive basement beats at Bordello London, where Wardour Street's nightlife legacy ignites late-night frenzy on weekends.
101 Nightclub London
2.6 km
Soho's raw Saturday night pulse: intimate beats, crowded floors, and unfiltered London club energy on Wardour Street.
Sunset night club
2.6 km
Dive into Soho's electric nightlife at Sunset Night Club, where thumping beats, craft cocktails, and dawn-chasing energy define unforgettable nights in London's vibrant core.
The Cuckoo Club
2.6 km
Exclusive Mayfair nightclub and restaurant blending glamorous design, contemporary cuisine, and vibrant nightlife in London’s upscale scene.
St Moritz Club
2.7 km
Soho's retro basement nightclub: 1960s vibes meet modern beats in an intimate, wood-paneled haven beneath a Swiss chalet restaurant.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Lively
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Modern
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Waterfront
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- Business Friendly
