About Paddington Paddington was for many years a rural area on the outskirts of London. With the 19th century industrial expansion, the area became urbanised. Today, the district is most famous for two things – its station and its bear. Paddington Station is an impressive Victorian station designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel and first opened in 1838. With vast iron girders, there’s a distinct cathedral-like feel with the design principles of the Victorian ages. Paddington Bear is the famous children’s character who arrived at the station with a suitcase full of marmalade sandwiches and a label reading “Please look after this Bear”. Today’s atmosphere of the district is lively and cosmopolitan. In particular, an excellent area to look for budget accommodation. Tourist attractions include the London Toy and Model Museum.