Cool hideaway: Paddington canal revamped with rooftop basketball, a floating mindfulness project and hip homes

Many travellers passing through Paddington railway station are unaware of the revitalised canal basin moments away.

It may lack the charm of Little Venice, but this once closed-off industrial zone is now a convivial urban quarter of homes, shops, offices, waterfront bars and brasseries.

Alongside swish new apartment blocks and a relaxed, almost California-style office campus with rooftop basketball court, are “sculptural” bridges across the canal, a floating park and water maze plus a splendid new art installation called Flotilla — 180 origami boats which, when illuminated, create a sequence of changing colours.

This month Barge Fiodra, a floating mindfulness project, will be moored at Merchant Square, one of the waterfront residential developments, offering on-board events such as yoga classes, film screenings and poetry readings.

Canalside Walk is the latest launch of homes — 51 apartments priced from £1,212,500.

The clean-cut geometric architecture shows off a terracotta façade said to be inspired by Paddington’s linear train tracks, while the glass balconies “drift” across the building like boats on the canal.

There is also a rooftop observatory. Call 020 7087 5111.