Located within London's City of Westminster, Paddington exemplifies continuous urban transformation across generations. The district is anchored by the celebrated Paddington terminal, an architectural triumph created by pioneering engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel in 1847. The area encompasses the distinguished St Mary's Hospital complex and the historic Paddington Green Police Station site. Contemporary projects like Paddington Waterside are revitalizing former industrial spaces, while adjacent districts including Maida Vale, Westbourne, and Bayswater with Lancaster Gate contribute to its eclectic atmosphere.

Paddington's origins trace back to Anglo-Saxon times, with initial mentions of "Padington" documented in tenth-century ecclesiastical records during Edgar the Peaceful's reign. While scholars debate these manuscripts' authenticity, they illuminate early settlement development. Historical research indicates that a Saxon settlement, guided by a leader called Padda, developed near the intersection of important Roman routes - where Edgware Road (Watling Street) met the Harrow and Uxbridge Roads.

The district's association with Westminster Abbey, validated by Plantagenet rulers in 1222, shaped its medieval development. Historical records confirm the existence of a religious sanctuary and agricultural estate, while chronicles from 1168 to 1485 document the agricultural endeavors of early tenants Richard and William de Padinton and their successors. This religious stewardship continued until Henry VIII's monastic reforms transformed the landscape.

After the monarchy claimed Paddington's territories, King Edward VI granted ownership to London's Bishop in 1550. This transition initiated a period of farming leases to diverse tenants and merchants. A notable resident during this era was Thomas North, whose 1579 English rendering of Plutarch's "Parallel Lives" would later inspire Shakespeare's works, with the bard reportedly performing at establishments along Edgware Road.

As the Tudor era transitioned to Stuart rule, the Small family became influential in Paddington's evolution. Nicholas Small, a prosperous textile merchant, and his spouse Jane resided in the manor residence, which later served as home to Sir John Popham, the period's chief legal officer. This era witnessed the founding of Blowers Inn, signaling Paddington's progression from rural landscape to emerging urban center.

Your Direct Link to Western Britain and Heathrow

Paddington Station stands as London's iconic western railway hub, providing essential connections to West London, the Thames Valley, South West England, South Wales, and Heathrow Airport. Serving more than 30 million passengers yearly, we deliver efficient rail services through Great Western Railway and Heathrow Express.

Key Features and Services

• •Premium Connections: Fast services to major destinations including Oxford, Bristol, Cardiff, Bath, and Cornwall, plus direct 15-minute transfers to Heathrow Airport
• •Central Location: Integrated with London Underground via Paddington station, serving four tube lines, with convenient access to the new Elizabeth Line for cross-London travel
• •Historic Architecture: 14 platforms housed within Brunel's magnificent Victorian trainshed, combining heritage architecture with modern facilities and retail options
• •Modern Development: Part of the ambitious Paddington Basin regeneration project, featuring new retail, dining, and entertainment options in a waterside setting
• •Full Facilities: Step-free access throughout, secure bicycle storage, modern washrooms, diverse shopping outlets, and the famous Paddington Bear statue in the main concourse