parks & open spaces
Parks and Open Spaces
Take a stroll along the canal to Little Venice or a short walk to Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens. Along with local railed gardens such as Norfolk Square there are plenty of places in and around Paddington to enjoy the open air.
There is something for everyone in Hyde Park - with over 4,000 trees, a lake, horse-riding, tennis, restaurants and cafes.
Planted with avenues of trees, bordered with ornamental flower beds, Kensington Gardens is home to Kensington Palace, the Albert Memorial, the Peter Pan Statue, the Serpentine Gallery and the Princess Diana Memorial Playground.
The picturesque pool of Little Venice marks the point where the Paddington Branch of the Grand Union Canal meets the Regent's Canal. This is the perfect place to embark on a leisurely walk along the peaceful green towpath to Regent's Park, London Zoo or Camden Lock and its vibrant market stalls.
View the guide and map to Central London's canals
Little Venice, London Paddington, W2
Seconds away from Paddington Station, just off London Street, Norfolk Square Gardens is a beautiful enclave, with mature trees for reading in the shade, and benches for sitting in the sun. Managed by City of Westminster Parks Service.
A beautiful setting, next to the Pool of Little Venice, Rembrandt Gardens offers the tranquility of the waterside, amongst wonderful greenery. Toilet facilities on site, managed by City of Westminster Parks Service.
Named after Sir Joseph Sheldon and his brother Daniel, nephews of the Bishop of London, who became tenants and built a new church in 1679, the predecessor of St Mary's Church in Paddington.
Sheldon Square is a magnificent amphitheatre, designed by architects Sidell Gibson, where you can sit in the sunshine enjoying a salad or a sandwich. Part of the PaddingtonCentral scheme, live music is provided over the summer months.
Easily missed, but wonderful when you find it, Talbot Square is well worth the visit. Mature trees and plants, a stone's throw from Paddington Station and Lancaster Gate. Managed by City of Westminster Parks Service.