
Diana Memorial Playground
A magical, Peter Pan-themed playground in Kensington Gardens, offering free, imaginative play for children.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to play

Diana Memorial Playground
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to play

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A magical, Peter Pan-themed playground in Kensington Gardens, offering free, imaginative play for children.
"A beloved London gem where kids run wild and imaginations set sail on a pirate ship!"

⏳ Playground Closure Alert
The playground is closed for a major upgrade until Spring 2026. Plan your visit accordingly!
👨👩👧👦 Adult Supervision Required
Only adults with children can enter. Staff monitor entry for safety.

Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.7 · 781 reviews
Type
Park
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Iconic Pirate Ship
Central area
A legendary wooden pirate ship, a centerpiece for imaginative play and adventure.

Sensory Huts and Tipis
Various locations
Enchanting spaces for quiet play, storytelling, and imaginative exploration.

Sand and Water Play Areas
Designated zones
Expansive sandpits and refreshing water features for tactile fun.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan for the Playground's Future
Entry and Supervision
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⏳ Playground Closure Alert
The playground is closed for a major upgrade until Spring 2026. Plan your visit accordingly!
👨👩👧👦 Adult Supervision Required
Only adults with children can enter. Staff monitor entry for safety.
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
Refreshments are available, but bringing your own is a good idea.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
Lots of running and climbing! Wear shoes suitable for active play.
Tips
from all over the internet
⏳ Playground Closure Alert
The playground is closed for a major upgrade until Spring 2026. Plan your visit accordingly!
👨👩👧👦 Adult Supervision Required
Only adults with children can enter. Staff monitor entry for safety.
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
Refreshments are available, but bringing your own is a good idea.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
Lots of running and climbing! Wear shoes suitable for active play.
📸 Capture the Magic
Bring your camera for whimsical photos, especially during golden hour.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Diana Memorial Playground for its imaginative Peter Pan theme, especially the iconic pirate ship, and its secure, free entry. It's lauded as a safe haven for children to play freely and connect with others. Some note that the adjacent Sunken Garden, while beautiful, has limited access and the statue's likeness is debated.
"The Diana Sunken Garden at Kensington Palace is a beautiful and peaceful garden, free to enter, though it’s gated and sometimes closed to the public. The statue of Princess Diana may not be the most accurate likeness, but it’s still a heartfelt tribute to her memory. This lovely spot is also where Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s engagement was announced. A must-see for royal fans and garden lovers alike. Recommended."
M
"Diana Princess of Wales Sunken Garden is a beautiful place located within Kensington Gardens in London. It's a quiet and peaceful environment, ideal for walks. You can admire statues and fountains in the garden—it's a lovely green oasis in the heart of London!"
Kft Wyxabo
"Behind Kensington Palace, much smaller than I imagined and you cannot enter the garden but can view from outside. Worth seeing and Hyde park is lovely to walk around too."
David Chung
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Diana Memorial Playground is located in Kensington Gardens. You can reach it via the Queensway or Lancaster Gate tube stations. Many visitors also enjoy walking through Hyde Park to get there.
Parking directly at the playground is very limited. It's best to use public transport or walk. The nearest car parks are often a significant distance away.
Strollers are generally allowed, but space can be tight when it's busy. Consider leaving it outside if possible or be prepared to navigate crowded areas.
The closest tube stations are Queensway (Central Line) and Lancaster Gate (Central Line). Both are a short walk from Kensington Gardens.
Yes, several bus routes stop near Kensington Gardens. Check Transport for London (TfL) for the most up-to-date routes and stops serving the area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Diana Memorial Playground is completely free! This makes it a fantastic option for families looking for affordable activities in London.
Opening hours vary seasonally, typically from 10 AM to around 7:45 PM. It's always best to check the official Kensington Gardens website for the most current times before your visit.
No advance booking is required for the Diana Memorial Playground. Entry is on a first-come, first-served basis, though you might have to wait if it's very busy.
The playground is designed for children, and entry is restricted to adults accompanied by children to ensure a safe and appropriate environment.
The playground is currently closed for a £3 million upgrade and is scheduled to reopen in Spring 2026.
🎫 🎡 Onsite Experience
The playground features a famous Peter Pan-themed pirate ship, sensory huts, tipis, water play areas, and extensive sandpits, all designed to spark imagination.
Yes, you can purchase refreshments and ice creams within the playground. However, bringing your own snacks and drinks is also a good idea.
Restroom facilities are available on-site for visitors.
The playground is ideal for children aged approximately 2 to 9 years old, offering a variety of play experiences for this age range.
Absolutely! The playground is a place where children from all over the world come together, often overcoming language barriers through the universal language of play.
📸 📸 Photography
Late afternoons, especially during the 'golden hour,' offer beautiful lighting for photos. Weekday mornings can also be less crowded, allowing for clearer shots.
The iconic pirate ship is a must-capture. The sensory huts and the overall whimsical design of the playground also make for charming photographs.
Yes, you are welcome to take photos of your children enjoying the playground. However, always be mindful of other visitors' privacy.
Drone photography is generally not permitted in Kensington Gardens or within the playground area due to privacy and safety regulations.
A versatile camera, whether a smartphone or a dedicated camera, is suitable. Consider a wide-angle lens to capture the scale of the pirate ship and play areas.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit