Paddington Recreation Ground

Paddington Recreation Ground is a sports facility in Maida Vale with tennis courts, a 400-meter running track, artificial turf pitches, and gardens surrounding a cricket pitch. The site also includes a bowling green, a traditional pavilion, and play areas for children.

The ground opened in 1888 as London's first public athletic facility, created through a major drainage and preparation project. This development was a turning point in establishing public sports facilities across the city.

The Prince of Wales, future King Edward VII, visited with his family in 1890, supporting the preservation of this space for recreation and education.

The grounds are well laid out with clear pathways connecting different sports areas and play zones. The flat terrain makes it easy to navigate for visitors of all abilities.

The grass banks along Grantully Road are remnants of a banked cycling track built in 1900, an innovative sports concept of that era. These ridges today stand as a quiet trace of that past chapter in British sport.

Location: City of Westminster

GPS coordinates: 51.53020,-0.19139

Latest update: December 8, 2025 20:03