Bayswater: History, Attractions and Ambiance

Stucco squares and a lost department store

Bayswater grew rapidly in the mid-nineteenth century as elegant white stucco terraces and garden squares spread west from Paddington. Queensway became its main street, and Whiteleys, which began as a draper's shop in the 1860s, grew into one of London's first great department stores. Its later building on Queensway has been redeveloped for homes, shops and a hotel.

The area has long been international. The Greek Orthodox Cathedral of St Sophia on Moscow Road has a richly decorated interior, and Queensway and Westbourne Grove are lined with restaurants serving food from around the world.

What to see

• Kensington Gardens – the Italian Gardens, the Peter Pan statue and the Diana Memorial Playground.
• Hyde Park – the Serpentine and wide open lawns.
• St Sophia's Cathedral – a striking Byzantine-style interior.
• Garden squares – such as Leinster Square and Porchester Square.

Eating and atmosphere

Queensway is lively late into the evening, with restaurants from many cuisines, while Westbourne Grove has cafés and independent shops. The residential squares are quiet, and the park is a short walk from almost every hotel.

A suggested half day

Begin at the Italian Gardens and walk past the Peter Pan statue towards the Serpentine. Return along the Bayswater Road and explore Queensway for lunch, then continue to Westbourne Grove or Notting Hill in the afternoon.

Getting there

Bayswater (Circle and District) and Queensway (Central) are the local stations. Paddington, with the Heathrow Express and Elizabeth line, is a short walk away. The A40 Westway gives a fast route west.

Getting there with Mason & Green

Bayswater has many hotels on residential streets, often with steps and no forecourt. We stop as close to the door as the road allows and help with luggage. Heathrow is usually reached via the A40 or A4.

See our Heathrow Airport transfers page.

Frequently asked questions