More about the Diana, Princess Of Wales Memorial Playground

This truly magical place is a kiddie's wonderland and the ideal jaunt for family fun. The focal point of the commemorative Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Playground is an intricately detailed pirate ship, moored aground in a sea of, immaculately kept fine, white sand. Children up to the age of twelve can clamber up the rigging all the way to the crow's nest, turn the giant wheel, explore the cabins and tug on a myriad of pulleys and ropes. It really is fantastic. The mermaids fountains and rocky out crops are lovely spots to splash around in water and cool down. Beyond the land of pirates lies the tepee camp.  Expect to find a delightful trio of wigwams, each large enough to hold a sizeable tribe of mini-Indians. Our favourite area is the tree house encampment. With walkways slung between trees and ladders and slides it's just such a fun, energetic environment for kids to play in. Kensington Gardens' connection with JM Barrie, the author of Peter Pan, simply reverberates around the playground. Neverland has been brought right into the heart of London to captivate the city's children. The playground works tirelessly to appeal to the senses: scented shrubs, whispering willows and bamboo are peppered across the area and football chimes ring out while curvy sculptures are there to be stroked and prodded. Much of the equipment was designed so less active children with special needs can still enjoy the playground. This extends to those in wheelchairs. Should they finish play feeling a little peckish, the newly refurbished café has a super children's menu. Come the summer holidays, they have a special programme of free entertainment too. It varies from clowns to storytelling sessions and takes place Monday to Friday at 11am, 1pm and 3pm. It's definitely worth trying to schedule in one of those times to your visit. There's plenty of seating area for parents to comfortably perch while their little darlings tear round the park making friends and exploring. But unaccompanied adults aren't allowed in - children are at the helm in this little part of our capital, designed solely for them.