Diana Memorial Playground Kensington Gardens London
A magical, Peter Pan-themed playground in Kensington Gardens, honoring Princess Diana with a giant pirate ship and imaginative play zones.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to play
Diana Memorial Playground Kensington Gardens London
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to play
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A magical, Peter Pan-themed playground in Kensington Gardens, honoring Princess Diana with a giant pirate ship and imaginative play zones.
"This is one of the best small parks we have taken our kids to so far!"
🎯 Free Entry & Gated Access
Enjoy this magical space for free! The gated entrance with staff ensures a safe environment for kids.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
Lots of climbing and exploring! Wear comfy shoes for kids and adults to make the most of the adventure.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Pirate Ship
Central area
A massive wooden pirate ship that sparks imagination and adventure for all young visitors.
Peter Pan Themed Zones
Throughout the playground
Explore teepees, sand and water play areas, and musical instruments inspired by J.M. Barrie's classic tale.
Sensory and Musical Play
Rear section
Engage little ones with interactive sound features and musical instruments for a multi-sensory experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan for Peak Playtime
Safety and Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Entry & Gated Access
Enjoy this magical space for free! The gated entrance with staff ensures a safe environment for kids. 
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
Lots of climbing and exploring! Wear comfy shoes for kids and adults to make the most of the adventure.
🍦 Nearby Treats Available
A cafe on-site offers snacks, and Amorino ice cream is just around the corner for a sweet treat.
⏰ Check Opening Hours
Hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Royal Parks website before your visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Entry & Gated Access
Enjoy this magical space for free! The gated entrance with staff ensures a safe environment for kids.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
Lots of climbing and exploring! Wear comfy shoes for kids and adults to make the most of the adventure.
🍦 Nearby Treats Available
A cafe on-site offers snacks, and Amorino ice cream is just around the corner for a sweet treat.
⏰ Check Opening Hours
Hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Royal Parks website before your visit.
👶 Toddler-Friendly Features
With sand, water play, and accessible areas, it's great for toddlers and younger children.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Diana Memorial Playground as a magical, well-maintained, and safe haven for children. Its Peter Pan theme, especially the iconic pirate ship, is a huge hit, offering hours of imaginative play. The free entry and excellent facilities like clean restrooms and a cafe make it a top choice for families. Some note that it can get very busy, and the closing times might feel a bit early during long summer days.
"Very big playground with a large variety of equipment for different ages, toilets are available, very convenient for parents. Free access with kids. A cafe is next to it, no need to worry if kids are hungry."
Ching-Yen CHENG
"Beautiful and very well-maintained place. The playground is spacious with plenty of activities for children – climbing frames, swings, and sand areas. The atmosphere is calm and pleasant, with enough seating and greenery. A perfect choice for a family outing and playtime. Definitely worth a visit!"
Veselina Niklenova
"This is a really lovely playground with lots of variety thanks to the wide range of play equipment. The playground is fully enclosed, and only people accompanying a child are allowed inside. My son also loved the squirrels running around — they were an extra source of great entertainment."
Ann-Sofie Viaene
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Diana Memorial Playground is located in Kensington Gardens. The nearest tube station is Queensway on the Central Line, about a 5-minute walk away. Lancaster Gate and Notting Hill Gate are also within walking distance.
On-street parking is limited and can be expensive in this area. It's highly recommended to use public transport or a taxi to reach Kensington Gardens.
Yes, cycling is a great option! Kensington Gardens has dedicated cycle paths, and you can rent bicycles near the main entrance.
Absolutely! Kensington Gardens, including the Diana Memorial Playground, is free for everyone to enjoy.
The playground is situated in the northwestern corner of Kensington Gardens, near Kensington Palace. Look for signs directing you to the Diana Memorial Playground.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Diana Memorial Playground is completely free for all visitors.
The playground is typically open daily from 10:00 AM until 7:45 PM, but hours can vary seasonally. It's always best to check the official Royal Parks website for the most up-to-date information.
The playground is designed for children aged 12 and under, with various areas catering to different age groups, from babies to older kids.
The playground is generally accessible, with wide paths and areas suitable for prams. Some play structures may be more challenging for wheelchairs, but the overall space is navigable.
Dogs are not permitted inside the Diana Memorial Playground itself, but they are welcome in Kensington Gardens on a lead.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll find a huge wooden pirate ship, teepees, sand and water play areas, swings, slides, climbing frames, and musical instruments. It's inspired by Peter Pan.
Yes, there are clean restrooms available within the playground area, making it convenient for families.
There is a cafe on-site offering snacks, ice cream, and drinks. Additionally, Amorino ice cream is located nearby.
The playground is securely gated with staff present, providing a safe environment for children to play freely.
While there isn't dedicated picnic seating, there are plenty of green spaces and benches around the playground where you can enjoy a picnic.
📸 📸 Photography
The iconic pirate ship is a must-capture. Also, try to get shots of children interacting with the Peter Pan-themed elements and the lush greenery surrounding the play areas.
Yes, photography is generally allowed for personal use. However, always be mindful of other visitors' privacy.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light and fewer crowds, making for more picturesque shots. The 'golden hour' can be particularly beautiful.
Drone usage is typically prohibited in Royal Parks, including Kensington Gardens, for safety and privacy reasons.
Yes, parents are encouraged to capture their children's joyful moments. Just ensure you have permission if photographing other children.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Young Children
+2Parents can relax on the numerous benches while children engage with the Peter Pan-themed elements. The playground's design encourages imaginative play, making it an ideal spot to help children adjust to jet lag or simply burn off energy during a London visit. Don't forget to bring a change of clothes for the water play!
+1✨ Budget-Conscious Travelers
+1While the playground itself is free, there's a cafe on-site for affordable snacks and drinks. You can also pack your own picnic to enjoy in the surrounding green spaces of Kensington Gardens, further keeping costs down. It's a fantastic value for an unforgettable experience.
+1👑 Royal Enthusiasts & History Buffs
Visitors can combine a visit to the playground with exploring Kensington Gardens and Kensington Palace itself, creating a well-rounded royal-themed outing. The playground's design, inspired by classic literature, also appeals to those interested in cultural and historical influences on public spaces.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Inspiration Behind the Playground
+1The playground's layout and features are meticulously crafted to reflect elements from the story. From the iconic wooden pirate ship, which serves as the central play structure, to the teepee tents, sand and water play areas, and even a stone crocodile, every detail is a nod to Peter Pan's adventures. This thoughtful design ensures that children can immerse themselves in imaginative play, fostering a sense of wonder and storytelling.
+1Beyond the whimsical theme, the playground prioritizes safety and accessibility. It is a securely enclosed space with controlled entry, managed by staff to ensure a secure environment for young visitors. This allows parents and carers to relax while children explore freely, knowing they are in a protected setting. The playground also features ample seating for adults and is designed to be inclusive for children of various ages and abilities.
+1Playground Renewal and Inclusivity
A key aspect of the renewal was to make the playground more inclusive. This means incorporating features and designs that cater to a wider range of abilities, ensuring that children with disabilities can also fully participate and enjoy the play experience. The goal is to create a truly welcoming environment where every child can play, explore, and create memories.
The renewal project also likely involved updating safety standards and incorporating sustainable materials where possible. While the core Peter Pan theme and the beloved pirate ship remain central, the enhancements ensure the playground continues to be a world-class facility that honors Princess Diana's legacy.
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