A neighbourhood transformed
Paddington today
A new railway, a new public square, canalside parks and great food, all a few minutes from Talbot Square.
Ten years ago Paddington was best known as a place to change trains. Today it's one of the most improved neighbourhoods in central London, and Talbot Square sits right in the middle of it.
2022
The Elizabeth line arrives
After years of construction as Crossrail, the Elizabeth line opened on 24 May 2022. Its Paddington station sits in a vast new box alongside Brunel's train shed, under a long glass canopy.
Trains run straight through to Bond Street, Tottenham Court Road, the City and Canary Wharf, and out to Heathrow, Reading, Essex and south-east London, with no change needed. Transport links »
2024
Paddington Square
Paddington Square, designed by Renzo Piano Building Workshop, replaced the old Royal Mail sorting office on Praed Street. It added a 1.35-acre piazza, shops and restaurants, and an 18-storey glass building.
Underneath it, a new Tube ticket hall opened in September 2024. It is three times the size of the old one and gives step-free access, by lift, from the street to the Bakerloo line for the first time. The scheme won a RIBA London Award in 2026.
2025
Market Halls Paddington
In March 2025 Market Halls opened its fourth London food hall at the foot of the new tower: eight independent kitchens, two bars and a terrace on the square.
From weekday breakfasts to Saturday nights, it has quickly become the neighbourhood's living room.
Paddington Basin
Life on the canal
Just north of the station, the old basin of the Grand Union Canal has become a place to walk, eat and relax by the water.
Floating Pocket Park
Lawns, planting and seating on a 730 square metre platform floating on the canal at Merchant Square.
The Fan Bridge
A footbridge at Merchant Square that opens by folding up like a hand-held fan.
The Rolling Bridge
Thomas Heatherwick's bridge curls up into an octagon. Follow the towpath on to Little Venice and Regent's Park.