Kid-Friendly Attractions Near Paddington Station
Paddington Station is almost the ideal gateway to the British capital. This busy railway and subway station is located close to one of the major entertainment districts of London, and it isn’t far from here to see many of the most iconic sights of the city.
And London is an excellent place to visit with kids. No matter what your children like to do, you’ll find things to keep them entertained here, from fascinating museums to great shopping and dining.
Of course, traveling with the family often means bringing a ton of bags with you. But help is at hand. Drop off your unneeded luggage at a Paddington Station luggage storage and try some of these awesome kid-friendly attractions around this well-situated station.
Paddington Bear Statue
Paddington may be one of London’s oldest and busiest rail stations, but these days, it’s perhaps best known for its part in the fictional story of Paddington Bear. You’ll find traces of this bear everywhere throughout the station, and the most iconic is this full-sized bronze statue. Kids and adults alike will love getting their photos taken with this famous bear right in front of the station!
Madame Tussauds Wax Museum
This world-famous museum features lifelike wax sculptures of some of the world’s most famous people and characters. Kids can marvel at their favorite stars alongside history’s great figures. Madame Tussauds is less than a 10-minute walk from Paddington Station, making it an ideal stop for families visiting London.
The Sherlock Holmes Museum
Do your children love mysteries and puzzles? Then they’ll love exploring The Sherlock Holmes Museum! Located just a few minutes away from Paddington Station, this faithful recreation of Holmes’ apartment offers a glimpse into the world of Britain’s greatest detective.
The stories of Sherlock Holmes appeal to adults and kids alike, so this is one of those rare attractions that can please the whole family, not just the kids. That’s especially true if you’re a Sherlock Holmes fan yourself. But even if you’re not, you may come away with a new appreciation of the ingenuity of these popular tales thanks to this quirky and unique museum.
Take a Boat Trip Through Little Venice
Little Venice is one of London’s most picturesque districts, and it’s right next to Paddington Station. The best way to explore this canalside neighborhood is through a boat trip down the Regent’s Canal. These canal boats offer an interesting alternative to the usual bus tours while still providing plenty of sites along the route that your kids will love.
It’s also possible to rent your own boat and explore for yourself. You don’t need a license; just pay attention to the safety orientation before you go and make sure every member of your party is wearing a life jacket. The kids will love seeing the city from the unique vantage point of the water and is a great way to get some fresh air and see a lesser-known part of London on your family trip.
Church Street Market
This vibrant outdoor market, just a short walk from Paddington Station, is the perfect spot for shoppers of all ages. You’ll find all sorts of items here – from fresh fruit and vegetables to artisanal crafts and clothes. Kids will love exploring the bustling stalls and colorful displays, while adults can pick up some unique souvenirs to take home as mementos of their trip.
There’s always something interesting on offer at the Church Street Market stalls, and if you’re lucky, you may also find live musicians or street entertainers playing for the crowd, making this a fantastic place to bring kids to experience the magic of London street life.
Kensington Gardens
Kensington Gardens is a sprawling and beautiful park near Paddington Station, and it’s one of the best places to take kids in London. It’s home to several attractions within its grounds, including a historic palace, a majestic memorial fountain, and plenty of spots for picnicking or just enjoying the fresh air.
Kids will love exploring Kensington Garden’s large playgrounds and arcades. They’ll also get the chance to meet some friendly animals in the park’s petting zoo. And if you’re visiting during summertime, don’t miss out on Peter Pan’s pirate ship – one of the most iconic features of this beloved public space.
Regent’s Park
Located just a few minutes from Paddington Station, Regent’s Park is one of London’s most iconic green spaces. It’s home to a wide variety of plants and flowers, as well as many animals that your kids can observe in their natural habitat. The park also has several outdoor activities for children of all ages to enjoy. These include tennis courts and mini golf courses, as well as play areas where they can run around and explore while you watch them with amusement. Don’t forget to take a trip on the park’s carousel, too – it’s sure to be a favorite!
London Zoo
Located inside Regent’s Park, London Zoo is always a favorite with kids. This world-famous zoo is home to over 700 species of animals, including many rare and endangered ones. Kids can learn about the different creatures here and even get up close with some of them in a safe environment.
The zoo also has plenty of interactive experiences, such as meet-and-greets with zookeepers who can introduce kids to their favorite animals.
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking for culture, shopping, or simply an escape into London’s natural beauty, there are plenty of kid-friendly attractions near Paddington station that can satisfy your family’s cravings. Plan ahead so you can make the most out of your trip and create experiences your kids won’t forget!