Children get to be children at the Diana, Princess of Wales’ Memorial Playground in Kensington Gardens, London. Inspired by the story of Peter Pan, the children’s playground is a space where kids get to set their imaginations aflight and to enjoy time outdoors while in London.
Even though it opened more than 20 years ago on 30 July 2000, the Diana, Princess of Wales’ Memorial Playground in Kensington remains ever popular.
Diana, Princess of Wales’ Memorial Playground: Welcoming Families and Children in London
The free London playground is enjoyed by more than 1,000,000 visitors each year – and for good reason.
At the heart of the Diana, Princess of Wales’ Memorial Playground is a large wooden pirate ship. With masts and sails, the pirate ship invites kids to imagine that they are on an adventure. It is the perfect way to be whisked away to Never Never Land.
The sandy grounds around the Diana, Princess of Wales’ Memorial Playground galleon are also ideal for play with other structures near by such as a little boat.
Kids will have plenty of fun exploring structures such as a wobble bridge, and even a fort.
But there are other areas to explore around the Diana, Princess of Wales’ Memorial Playground too.
A see saw and sand pit can be found close to entrance of the gated playground.
Venture deeper inside and there is a sound wall where children can play with sound.
Another iconic sight that you will come across at the Kensington Gardens playground is a group of teepee tents.
These are great fun for kids to explore and let their imagination take flight.
Outdoor Play at the Kensington Gardens Playground, in the Heart of the London
The Diana, Princess of Wales’ Memorial Playground is great for those who may be visiting London with kids and who have been tired out by all the museums and sights.
It is a chance to let the kids enjoy the outdoors, especially if the weather is nice, and for them to expend some energy.
Parents can also enjoy some respite at the shaded seats within the children’s garden area.
Take note that only adults supervising children up to 12 years old are allowed to enter.
The playground is open at various times during the year. These are:
- May to August: 10 am to 7.45 pm
- April and September: 10 am to 6.45 pm
- March and early October: 10 am to 5.45 pm
- February and late October: 10 to 4.45 pm
- November to January: 10 am to 3.45 pm
It is located just next to Kensington Palace, which is closely associated with Princess Diana. You can read more about the Diana, Princess of Wales’ Memorial Playground.
For more interesting things to do while in London, read our story about visiting London with kids.
