We really hope you make a new friend in London Paddington train station.
Many travelers who pass through this busy Central London railway terminus take a liking to it. Some love it for its convenience; you can’t really beat a cheap lift to or from Heathrow airport with a 15-minute travel time. Others dig it because it drops you a stone’s throw from Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens, two of the most scenic spaces in London.
But if you’re like us, you’ll take a shine to London Paddington train station when you run into a familiar friend. Here’s your guide to London Paddington station, including whether or not a certain literary bear lives within.
Image Credit: Getty Images, Alex Segre. Image Location: Paddington station, London, UK
Everything you need to know about London Paddington Station
Keep your eyes out for fellow passengers who may be visiting London for the very first time. We heard there’s a cuddly bear from the deepest darkest Peru meandering about…
Where is Paddington train station?
Paddington train station is located on Praed Street, just north of Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens.
Is there an Underground station at Paddington train station?
Yes, London Paddington train station is served by an Underground station called, you guessed it, Paddington. There are two different branches to this station. The main Underground station—when coming from your train, straight ahead across the concourse and down the stairs—serves the Bakerloo (Brown) line, Circle (Yellow) line via Victoria, and District line (Green). The other branch is around the side of the station past platform 14 and the taxi ranks, and serves the Circle (Yellow) line via King's Cross and the Hammersmith & City (Pink) line. You'll also be able to hop on the brand-new Elizabeth (Purple) line by turning right at the concourse and heading out the station's side entrance to the Elizabeth line entrance.
Is there a train from Heathrow to Paddington?
The train from Heathrow Airport to Paddington station is the Heathrow Express. Its name says it all: the Heathrow Express is a direct train line from Heathrow’s runways to one of London’s enduring railway hubs. The train from Heathrow to Paddington takes 15 minutes and is absolutely more preferable than sitting in London traffic for any amount of time.
Is there left luggage at Paddington train station?
Yes, there is a left luggage area at Paddington train station. Also known to American travelers as baggage storage, you’ll find the left luggage area near Platform 12.
Image Credit: Getty Images, Andrew Holt. Image Location: Paddington station, London, UK
Where do trains from London Paddington station go?
There are three train companies operating from London Paddington train station. The Heathrow Express goes directly to and from Heathrow Airport, no exceptions. The Elizabeth line runs through Central London from Reading to Shenfield and Abbey Wood. The Great Western Railway (GWR) runs to the west of England and into Wales, including to cities like Bristol and Cardiff.
What’s inside Paddington train station?
London Paddington train station is open 24/7 and there is certainly enough to keep you busy inside. A first-class lounge for GWR passengers is on Platform 1 while other waiting areas, restrooms, and even showers are around Platform 12. When it comes to shopping, train station stalwarts like WHSmith, Oliver Bonas, and Boots have clothing, cosmetics and more on deck. Both fast and casual food options line the station, but our picks for obvious reasons include the Paddington Cafe and The Mad Bishop & Bear bar.
Is Paddington Bear at the London Paddington train station?
Yes, the marmalade-loving bear that’s graced childhoods since 1958 can be found at London Paddington train station—just not in the fur. A bronze Paddington Bear statue (found on Platform 1 underneath the big clock) and a Paddington Bear bench, as well as a Paddington Bear shop, will welcome your children and your inner child to this bustling train station.
Image Credit: Getty Images, tbradford. Image Location: Paddington station, London, UK
Where to stay, visit, and eat near Paddington train station
Whether you’re arriving from Heathrow Airport completely famished or want to jump right into the sightseeing, here’s what you’ll find around London Paddington train station.
Attractions near Paddington train station
Hyde Park’s Victoria Gate is less than a ten-minute walk from London Paddington so if you’re keen for a stroll through Kensington Gardens or want to take the scenic route to Buckingham Palace, have at it. Alternatively, hop the tube and within a few stops you can step off the subway at The Sherlock Holmes Museum (Baker Street), Portobello Road Market (Notting Hill Gate or Ladbroke Grove), and the Natural History Museum (South Kensington).
Restaurants near Paddington train station
Let’s talk turkey, and by turkey, we mean the Jack’s Creek Big Angus Steaks at Angus Steakhouse. If you’re vegetarian but decidedly not vegan, the entirely cheese-based menu at The Cheese Barge may be your cup of tea. And if your cup of tea is actually fish and chips, a pint of the black stuff, or a literal cup of tea, The Victoria pub has a seat saved for you.
Hotels near Paddington train station
Hilton London Paddington is connected to the railway hub, making it the closest hotel to Paddington station by default. The Chilworth London Paddington a block over, making laid-back luxury look easy with its vitamin-infused rain showers and coffee sachets in your room. Point A Paddington is a little less buttoned up, but still as warm and welcoming as Paddington Bear himself.
Buy before you fly
Did you know you can purchase train tickets around London before you even reach the airport? Download the Trainline app to prepurchase train tickets to and from Paddington train station so you’re ready to explore the best afternoon tea parties, street-food markets, and fantastic fish and chip joints London has to offer.
Header Image Credit: Getty Images, Montana1957. Image Location: Paddington station, London, UK