Paddington

Overview

Paddington is an elegant inner-eastern suburb defined by its continuous rows of Victorian-era terrace houses with ornate iron-lace balconies. Oxford Street's western end and the Saturday Paddington Markets draw art lovers and fashion shoppers.

Highlights

• Iron-lace terraces: Some of Sydney's finest Victorian architecture, with colourful painted facades.
• Paddington Markets: Saturday markets (10:00–16:00) at Paddington Uniting Church with jewellery, ceramics, and fashion.
• Galleries: Over a dozen commercial art galleries cluster along Jersey Road and Glenmore Road.

History

Developed in the 1840s–1880s as workers' housing for the Victoria Barracks garrison, Paddington fell into disrepair by the 1950s. A 1960s heritage movement saved the terraces from demolition, sparking gentrification.

Visitor Tips

• Saturday: Visit on Saturday for the markets and gallery openings.
• Bus from CBD: Bus 333 or 380 from the city takes 15 minutes.
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours.