LONDON | Paddington Station handles a massive share of West London traffic and airport flyers arriving on the Heathrow Express. For years, stepping off the platform meant settling for rather uninspiring options. These days, things are thankfully very different. Whether it’s historic pubs on the canal, cheese on a barge, or quality dining spots just a short walk from the concourse, the area has plenty to offer.
Whether you’re stepping off a train, looking for a proper meal within walking distance of the platforms, or dropping in for a post-journey drink, here’s my guide to the best food and drink spots to visit near Paddington Station.
At a Glance: Where to Eat & Drink Near Paddington
| Venue | Best For | Neighborhood / Street | Nearest Tube / Station |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Cheese Barge | British artisanal cheese plates & canalside dining | Sheldon Square | Paddington |
| Darcie & May Green | Aussie-style brunch, coffee & canal views | Sheldon Square | Paddington |
| Santa Maria Paddington | Authentic Neapolitan pizza | Norfolk Place | Paddington |
| The Victoria | Traditional Victorian pub dining & real ales | Strathearn Place | Paddington |
| The Summerhouse | Canalside seafood & relaxed waterfront views | Clifton Wharf | Paddington / Warwick Avenue |
| The Heron | Gastropub classics & Thai kitchen dishes | Norfolk Crescent | Paddington |
The Cheese Barge
From a food truck selling one of London’s best grilled cheese sandwiches, the Cheese Bar has since expanded to several cheese-focused venues. Moored permanently in Sheldon Square at Paddington Central, The Cheese Barge is a celebration of British and Irish cheeses served from a custom-designed double-decker boat on the canal. The menu features creative small and large plates that highlight seasonal dairy, making it a unique stop.
Sheldon Square, Paddington Central, London W2 6HY
Darcie & May Green
Hard to miss with their vibrant exterior artwork designed by Sir Peter Blake, this pair of colourful barges moored on the Grand Union Canal brings a slice of Australian cafe culture to Paddington. It’s a great spot for all-day dining offering things baked aubergine fritters with kimchi ketchup, smashed avocado on toast with poached eggs, and shakshuka.
Grand Union Canal, Sheldon Square, London W2 6DS
Santa Maria Paddington
Housed in the historic Frontline Club building on Norfolk Place, Santa Maria brings its famed Neapolitan pizza operation to Paddington. Known for leopard-spotted, pillowy crusts and top quality toppings, it’s your best option for quality pizza right near the station. Try the Sant’anna – tomato sauce base with fior di latte mozzarella, Cotto ham, artichokes, black olives, and parmesan.
13 Norfolk Pl, Tyburnia, London W2 1QJ
The Victoria
Nominated as Fuller’s pub of the year in 2007 and 2009, The Victoria is a multi-story Victorian-era pub that retains its historic charm with etched glass, timber panelling, and traditional fireplaces. It’s a reliable stop for a proper pint of real ale and upscale pub food done right.
10 Strathearn Place, London W2 2NH
The Summerhouse
Step outside of Paddington Station, head down to the water at Sheldon Square and walk along the canal to The Summerhouse. Situated right on the canal edge, it specialises in fresh seafood, fish and chips, and light seasonal dishes with unobstructed waterfront views. Previously only open during the summer, The Summerhouse is now a year-long affair.
Blomfield Rd, London W9 2PA
The Heron
Built in 1972 as part of the Hyde Park Estate, The Heron on Norfolk Crescent is a proper pub with an unexpected menu. The pub’s sister restaurant, Thai Zapp, takes care of the pub menu, serving up an assortment of regional Thai dishes.
Norfolk Cres, Tyburnia, London W2 2DN