Sundays in London carry a distinct charm: the frantic weekday commuter rush dissolves, the pace slows, and the city’s leafy nooks and waterways take center stage. When staying at the Mercure London Paddington Hotel, you are positioned right in the sweet spot between historic transit prestige, picturesque canals, and royal parkland.
Here is how to make every minute count on a leisurely, memorable Sunday around Paddington.
8:30 AM – Morning Stroll to the Italian Gardens & Hyde Park
After a hearty breakfast and fresh coffee at the hotel, step outside and head south. In under 10 minutes, you will reach the edge of Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens.
Enter via the Italian Gardens, a 150-year-old ornamental water garden believed to have been a romantic gift from Prince Albert to Queen Victoria. On a quiet Sunday morning, the fountains, classical urns, and marble statues offer a serene start to the day. Walk along the Long Water towards the Serpentine, watch the local birdlife, and take in one of London’s finest green lungs before the afternoon crowds arrive.
10:30 AM – Follow the Water to Little Venice
Stroll back up north toward the canals. Just a 10-minute walk from the Mercure lies Little Venice, the tranquil junction where the Grand Union Canal meets the Regent’s Canal.
Lined with weeping willows, brightly painted narrowboats, and Regency townhouses, it feels miles away from the urban bustle.
- Grab a waterside brew: Pick up a flat white at a moored canal café or stop by Waterside Café on an authentic barge.
- Take the towpath walk: Follow the quiet towpath heading east toward Regent’s Park, or book a ticket on the classic London Waterbus for an effortless cruise down to Camden Lock.
- Captain your own craft: If you are visiting with family or a group, hire a self-drive electric boat with GoBoat at Merchant Square and navigate the waterways at your own speed.
1:00 PM – Sunday Roast & Waterside Bites
No Sunday in London is complete without a classic meal. You have two excellent avenues right on your doorstep:
- A Traditional Gastropub Roast: Head to a neighborhood favorite like The Cleveland Arms or The Victoria (a handsome 1830s pub famous for its Victoriana interiors and roast beef with Yorkshire puddings).
- Canalside Dining at Paddington Basin & Merchant Square: If you prefer something modern, wander around Merchant Square. Check out the floating pocket park, watch the unique Fan Bridge, or grab a table on the heated terrace at The Lockhouse or seafood specialist barge The Grand Duchess.
3:00 PM – Art Trails & A Nod to Britain’s Favorite Bear
Take an easy afternoon walk along the Paddington Public Art Trail. The area features over 20 outdoor sculptures and contemporary installations, from Liz West’s vibrant Colour Transfer under the Westway to the kinetic Fan and Rolling Bridges at Merchant Square.
Before heading back, step into Paddington Station under Brunel’s magnificent Victorian iron-and-glass train shed. Near Platform 1, you will find the iconic bronze statue of Paddington Bear—the quintessential photo opportunity and a nod to Michael Bond’s beloved books. The official Paddington Bear shop nearby is also open on Sundays if you want to pick up a souvenir marmalade tin or plush bear.
5:30 PM – Discover St. Mary’s History & Modern Paddington Central
Before dusk settles, wander past the historic wing of St. Mary’s Hospital, where Sir Alexander Fleming famously discovered penicillin in 1928, marking one of the greatest medical breakthroughs in history.
From there, drift into Paddington Central and Sheldon Square, where outdoor amphitheater seating and mellow evening lighting make it a relaxed spot to unwind with a drink.
7:30 PM – Unwind at Mercure London Paddington
After hitting 15,000 steps across Royal Parks and canal towpaths, the best part of your day is knowing your room is only seconds away. Head back to the Mercure London Paddington Hotel, kick back in your soundproofed room, and enjoy:
- A relaxed dinner at the on-site restaurant or convenient in-room dining.
- High-speed Wi-Fi to plan your Monday travels or check in for your flight via the Heathrow Express just across the street.
- A comfortable, restful sleep in the heart of London.
Visiting Tips for Your Sunday Stay:
- Check Transport Timetables: London Underground and Elizabeth line services run throughout Sunday, but always check Transport for London (TfL) for scheduled maintenance or reduced weekend frequencies.
- Book Roasts Early: Sunday lunch is a British institution, and the best local gastropubs fill up quickly. Ask the Mercure concierge team to help reserve your table ahead of time.
- Luggage Storage: Arriving early or checking out before an evening flight? Take advantage of the hotel’s secure luggage storage so you can explore unencumbered.