Paddington's Location and Atmosphere
Paddington offers a diverse cultural experience and is a haven for style-conscious individuals and art lovers. Located just east of Sydney’s City Business District (CBD), it’s celebrated for its historic Victorian terrace houses that beautifully combine old-world charm with a modern vibe.
The suburb’s heart beats along Oxford Street, a bustling thoroughfare known for its eclectic mix of boutique shops, quaint cafes, and art galleries.
Commuting to Work from Paddington
Location is everything and Paddington doesn’t disappoint. With convenient bus services connecting to the CBD and beyond, it’s a commuter’s paradise. The pedestrian-friendly streets also make walking and cycling practical for daily travel.
Public Transport
Paddington is exceptionally well-connected to the CBD via bus. Key routes include the 333, 380, and 440 buses, which run frequently along Oxford Street.
The average bus journey to the CBD takes about 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. These buses offer a reliable and quick way to reach the heart of the city, especially during rush hours.
While Paddington itself doesn’t have a train station, the nearby Edgecliff and Kings Cross stations are accessible via a short bus ride. Or if you’re closer to Centennial Park, you can head to Bondi Junction station. On the opposite side of Paddington, Museum station is not too far.
Cycling
With dedicated bike lanes and safer routes, cycling from Paddington to the CBD is a popular choice for many residents. The average cycling time is around 15-25 minutes, providing a brisk and enjoyable commute through some of Sydney’s most scenic areas.
Walking
Walking to the CBD is a feasible option for those who enjoy a bit of exercise and fresh air. The walk typically takes about 30-45 minutes, depending on your pace and the specific route taken. This option allows commuters to experience the charm of Sydney’s streets and parks at a leisurely pace.
Driving
Driving to the CBD is the fastest option, usually taking about 10-15 minutes in light traffic. However, during peak hours, this can be quite a bit longer due to traffic congestion. Additionally, parking in the CBD is a challenge and often costly, making this option less favored for regular commuting.
Paddington Rental Prices
Paddington is a wonderful place to live, but it’s not cheap.
The median rental price per week in this suburb is around $575 per week for a one bedroom, $895 per week for a two bedroom and then jumps to $1450 per week for a three bedroom.
In terms of rental properties, you can choose between two main options: terrace houses and apartments.
The older-style terraces have mostly all been renovated, but you can occasionally encounter terraces with problems such as cracked plaster and rising damp. The other thing to bear in mind is that Sydney’s terraces are quite narrow and their staircases are steep – making them unsuitable for anyone with mobility issues.
Meanwhile, the apartment buildings in Paddington are all fairly modern, and some have great views of the city.
Child Care and Preschools in Paddington
There are several reputable schools in and around Paddington, catering to different educational needs.
Child Care Centres
Please note this is not all child care centres located in Paddington. I only included those with good Google reviews and with websites. If you do a search for child care centres in Paddington, be sure that the results are NOT for Paddington London or Paddington Queensland.
Yes, this is a short list of five, but it should get you started.
Gumnut Gardens Early Learning and Long Day Care Centre
61 Moore Park Rd, Centennial Park
Open Monday to Friday, 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM
You can learn more about this centre at Gumnut Gardens.
SDN Paddington
33 Heeley St
Open Monday to Friday, 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM
Visit their website at SDN Paddington.
Paddington Children’s Centre
30 Gordon St
Open Monday to Friday, 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM
Find out more about their services at Paddington Children’s Centre.
Preschools
KU Peter Pan Preschool
2 Union St
Open Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 3:30 AM
Visit their website at KU Peter Pan Preschool.
Before and After School Care, and Vacation Care
Paddington Out of School Care and Vacation Care
399-435 Oxford Street
Open Monday to Friday, 7:30 AM to 9:00 AM (Before school care), 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM (After school care)
Find out more about Paddington Out of School Care here.
Paddington Primary Schools
Paddington Public School
399-435 Oxford Street
(Same location as Paddington Out of School Care listed above.)
Link to enrolment information.
St Francis of Assisi Regional Catholic Primary School
64 Gordon Street
Further details are available on their website.
Glenmore Road Public School
269 Glenmore Rd
Link to enrolment information.
Note About High Schools
There are no high schools in Paddington.
High schools near Paddington are:
Inner Sydney High School – Public school enrolment zone is all of Paddington.
Inner Sydney High School offers a range of beneficial facilities that are accessible and flexible to adapt to the demands of an ever-evolving curriculum. The school provides spaces that are both engaging and supportive for students and teachers alike, with an emphasis on technology-rich settings that promote mobility and flexibility. The school features five floors dedicated to STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics), equipped with facilities for music, food technology, and visual arts. Additionally, it includes multiple spaces for sporting and recreational activities, and shares usage of Prince Alfred Park.
Corner of Cleveland and Chalmers Streets, Surry Hills
Link to enrolment information.
Sydney Boys High School and Sydney Girls High School
Both of these schools are selective high schools. Students need to pass a placement test and be either Australia or New Zealand citizens, or have a permanent residency visa.
There are enrolment limits.
More information about Sydney Boys High School.
More information about Sydney Girls High School.
Parks, Playgrounds and Off-Leash Dog Parks
The two main attractions as far as parks go are Centennial Parklands and Paddington Reservoir Garden.
Centennial Parklands, a large public parkland, is just a short walk away and perfect for picnics, jogging, and cycling. Paddington Reservoir Gardens, a heritage-listed public park, offers a unique blend of historical and natural beauty.
Off-Leash Dog Parks
Royal Hospital for Women Park
Between 3:30 pm – 10:30 am
Comber Street Reserve
Tiny, pocket dog park. Not enough room to run around.
Playgrounds
Cambridge Street Reserve
Small, hidden playground near Glenmore Road Public School.
57 Cambridge Street
Gugara Park (also called Dillon Street Playground)
Safe, enclosed shady playground.
Corner of Dillon Street and Neild Avenue
James Cook Reserve Playground
This small park holds significant heritage. It once served as the overnight paddock for delivery horses from the James Cook Bakery on Oxford Street, Paddington. The reserve now includes a small, fenced playground with natural shade and a rubber soft fall surface. Playground equipment features a two-swing set and a net climbing frame.
4 Victoria St, Access via Victoria Street and Victoria Lane
Trumper Oval Playground
Nice playground with plenty of shade plus walking trails.
361-441 Glenmore Road and Hampden Street
Union Street Playground
Union Street Playground is a small playground with a two-swing set and a climbing framework with a slide. It more suitable for children aged 2-3 years. Older children may find it less engaging since there isn’t really a lot going on.
35 Union Street
Art and Entertainment in Paddington
Paddington is a Sydney cultural hotspot, hosting numerous art galleries like the Sherman Contemporary Art Foundation. For movie buffs, the historic Chauvel Cinema offers a unique experience, showcasing both mainstream and indie films.
Healthcare and Services Located in Paddington
Paddington is close to some of Sydney’s major hospitals and has a range of healthcare services, including clinics and specialists.
Paddington Early Childhood Health Centre
Early childhood health services for young children and advice to parents, including post-natal depression screening, diet assistance, and counselling. They also organize social groups for new parents to share their experiences.
The Gate House Cottage, 188 Oxford St & Corner Young Street
(02) 9380 4295
For appointments, contact the central intake line: (02) 9382 0933
Paddington Doctors
Paddington Doctors provides coordinated, comprehensive, and individualised care, delivered by doctors and supported by experienced nurses and allied health professionals.
Primary Care, Urgent Care and Virtual Care
266 Oxford Street
(02) 9072 1660
Link: https://www.paddingtondoctors.com/
Paddington Family Practice
Paddington Family Practice has been providing quality healthcare for individuals and families for 40 years.
465 Oxford St
(02) 9331 5080
Link: https://www.paddingtonfamilypractice.com.au/
St Vincent’s Private Hospital and St Vincent’s Hospital Sydney
St Vincent’s is not located in Paddington, but in Darlinghurst, very close to Oxford street.
406 Victoria St, Darlinghurst
Link: https://www.svph.org.au/hospitals
Paddington Library
Paddington Library has eight public access computers: six PCs (updated in 2023) and two Macs that you can reserve. There is also a Quiet Pod space available for booking, suitable for 1-4 people for up to two hours. This space is ideal for small in-person or video meetings. To book the Quiet Pod, visit the link below.
247 Oxford St
(02) 9391 7988
Link: https://www.woollahra.nsw.gov.au/Library/Visit-us/Paddington-library
Where to Eat in Paddington
Dining options are plentiful, from cozy cafes to some of Sydney’s most famous fine dining establishments, ensuring every palate is catered to.
Five Ways
A hub of culinary delights, located at the intersection of five streets. Don’t miss ‘The Royal Hotel’ for classic pub fare and a rooftop dining experience.
Saint Peter
A must-visit for seafood lovers, offering a menu that highlights the best of Australian seafood.
10 William St
This cozy wine bar serves exquisite Italian-inspired dishes, perfect for a casual yet sophisticated dining experience.
The Paddington
Famous for its rotisserie meats and vibrant atmosphere, this is a great spot for a hearty meal.
Jackie’s Café
Ideal for brunch enthusiasts, offering a delightful array of breakfast and lunch options in a charming setting.
Paddington Retail Therapy
Oxford Street is the main thoroughfare, boasting trendy fashion boutiques, charming bookshops, and unique home décor stores.
Paddington Markets
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Sydney’s iconic Paddington Markets every weekend. Find fresh produce, handmade crafts, vintage treasures, and delicious street food.
Puddleduck Toys
Parents will adore the quality and educational value of the toys, while kids will be captivated by the sheer magic of the place. At Puddleduck you’ll find handcrafted wooden toys, plush animals, and dolls in a charming, nostalgic setting.
Di Nuovo
This stylish boutique houses a curated selection of pre-loved designer clothing, shoes, and accessories from the likes of Chanel, Prada, and Dior. It’s a treasure hunter’s paradise, and you’re sure to find one-of-a-kind pieces to add to your wardrobe. Their collection is constantly updated with new arrivals.
Berkelouw Books
Get lost in a world of books at Berkelouw Books. This charming bookstore has a vast selection of new and used books, catering to all interests and tastes. Enjoy a coffee at the in-store cafe, browse the shelves for your next literary adventure, and soak up the atmosphere of a true bibliophile’s haven.
Frankie General Store
Frankie’s focuses on ethical, small-batch products with a sustainable ethos. They have items like macrame baskets, bamboo cutlery containers, and chic glasses.
The Raconteur
This store at 20A William St specializes in locally made, natural botanical perfumes, featuring unique fragrances and high-quality ingredients.
Fish Butchery
Specializing in sustainably caught fish, Fish Butchery makes cooking fish at home simple and enjoyable. They also provide masterclasses in fish preparation and cookery.
Just William Chocolates
A family-run chocolatier with handcrafted chocolates in unique flavors and shapes. This store is perfect for luxury gift boxes and special occasion treats.
Pros and Cons of Living in Paddington
The Pros
Rich Cultural Tapestry: Paddington boasts a strong arts scene, with numerous galleries and theaters. Paddington terrace houses and streetscapes tell a story of the suburb’s rich Victorian and Art Deco heritage. Take a stroll and soak in the architectural charm.
Architectural Charm: The suburb is known for its Victorian terrace houses, offering a unique living experience.
Vibrant Lifestyle: From trendy cafes to boutique shopping, Paddington is never short on entertainment and amenities.
Green Spaces: Proximity to parks like Centennial Park offers residents an urban escape.
Strong Community Feel: Despite being close to Sydney’s central business district, Paddington retains a tight-knit community atmosphere.
Family-friendly: With excellent schools, safe streets, and plenty of family-oriented activities, Paddington is a great place to raise a family.
Easy Commute and Connectivity: Paddington is well-connected to the rest of Sydney by bus, train, and light rail. You can easily reach the city center, Bondi Beach, and the airport within a short journey.
Village atmosphere: Paddington boasts a vibrant village atmosphere with its bustling Oxford Street lined with cafes, restaurants, and unique shops. You’ll find everything from trendy boutiques to vintage treasures, all within walking distance.
The Cons
Cost of Living: Paddington is one of Sydney’s most expensive suburbs, with housing prices and living costs to match.
Limited Parking: The narrow streets and popularity of the area can make parking a challenge. On-street parking can be scarce and expensive in Paddington, especially during peak hours. Consider alternative transport options like cycling or public transport if you own a car.
Noise Levels: Some parts of Paddington, especially near main streets like Oxford, can get quite noisy, especially on weekends with its bars and restaurants. If you’re looking for peace and quiet, consider a quieter street far away from Oxford.
Compact Living Spaces: Some of the historic homes and apartments offer less space compared to newer developments in other suburbs nearby like Bondi Junction.
Limited nightlife: While Paddington has its share of cafes and restaurants, the nightlife scene is not as lively as some other parts of Sydney. Head to Surry Hills or Darlinghurst for a more vibrant nightlife experience.
Paddington offers a unique blend of historical charm, modern lifestyle, and cultural richness, making it an attractive location for a wide range of residents. While the cost of living is higher, the quality of life, and proximity to Sydney’s central business district make it highly desirable. Whether you’re looking for a vibrant lifestyle or a quaint neighborhood with a strong sense of community, Paddington has something for everyone.
