


Diana Memorial Playground
About
This magical Peter Pan-themed adventure playground in Kensington Gardens is one of London's most beloved free attractions for families. Children can climb aboard a full-sized wooden pirate ship, explore a treehouse village, and splash in interactive sensory water features, all set within a beautifully landscaped woodland setting that encourages imaginative play and outdoor adventure.
Highlights
- ✓Full-sized wooden pirate ship inspired by Peter Pan's adventures in Neverland
- ✓Elaborate treehouse village with bridges, slides, and climbing structures
- ✓Interactive water pump features and sensory play areas
- ✓Large sandpit beach area perfect for digging and building
- ✓Beautiful woodland setting with natural play elements and sculptures
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive when gates open at 10am to avoid crowds, especially during school holidays and weekends when queues can form at the entrance.
- 2.Bring spare clothes and towels as the water play features are irresistible. Children often get soaked even when not planning to play in the water.
- 3.The playground has a maximum capacity and may close temporarily when full. Plan alternative activities nearby in Kensington Gardens if you need to wait.
- 4.Pack snacks and drinks as there are no cafes inside the playground itself, though the Broad Walk Cafe is just outside the gates.
- 5.Supervise children closely as the pirate ship and treehouses have elevated platforms. The playground is fully fenced with controlled entry points for safety.
Best Time to Visit
Visit on weekday mornings during school term time (September through July, excluding holidays) for the quietest experience. Early mornings right at opening (10am) or late afternoons after 3pm tend to be less busy even on weekends.
What to Know
Entry is completely free but supervised by staff who monitor capacity. No toilets inside the playground, so use facilities at nearby Broad Walk Cafe before entering. The playground is well-maintained and fully accessible with wheelchair-friendly paths.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round with seasonal hours: winter (10am-3:45pm), spring and autumn (10am-5:45pm), and summer (10am-7:45pm). Water features typically operate April through September, weather permitting. The playground may close temporarily during severe weather.
Nearby Eats
The Broad Walk Cafe is located just outside the playground gates offering child-friendly meals, snacks, and outdoor seating. For more substantial dining, The Orangery in Kensington Palace (a 5-minute walk) provides elegant afternoon tea and family-friendly lunch options in a beautiful setting.
More Activities Near London
Coram's Fields
Coram's Fields is a unique seven-acre playground in central London with an extraordinary rule: adults can only enter if accompanied by a child. This historic space offers a delightful mix of adventure play equipment, a small petting farm with animals like sheep and rabbits, a seasonal paddling pool, and challenging climbing walls, making it a fantastic free outing in the heart of the city.
Camden Town
Camden Town is a vibrant neighborhood bursting with creative energy, offering eclectic markets, colorful street art, and alternative culture that fascinates tweens and teens. While the bustling atmosphere and edgy vibe make it less suitable for toddlers, older children will love exploring the quirky shops, sampling international street food, and watching talented street performers along the canal and market areas.
The British Museum
The British Museum offers families an incredible journey through human history, from Egyptian mummies that captivate young imaginations to ancient Greek sculptures and treasures from every corner of the globe. Best of all, admission is completely free, making it an unbeatable value for families traveling to London who want world-class culture without the hefty price tag.
Hyde Park
Hyde Park is one of London's most iconic green spaces, offering 350 acres of family fun in the heart of the city. From splashing in the Diana Memorial Fountain to feeding swans at the Serpentine lake, renting pedal boats, and exploring multiple playgrounds, this royal park provides hours of outdoor entertainment without costing a penny.