Prince William anad Prince Harry’s childhood memories may be revived after a heartwarming update about their late mother Princess Diana’s memorial in Kensington Gardens.
As per the latest update, the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Playground in Kensington Gardens will reopen to visitors following a £3 million renovation by The Royal Parks charity.
For William and Harry, the announcement is deeply personal as Kensinsington gardens is a place where they used to play with their mother.
The restoration of the park brings back memories of joy, laughter, and love for the two royal brothers.
Originally opened in 2000 as a tribute to the late princess, who lived at neighbouring Kensington Palace, the Peter Pan-themed attraction has been one of Britain’s most popular playgrounds, drawing more than a million visits annually.
Kensington Gardens, once part of the private gardens of Kensington Palace, are now among the Royal Parks of London and largely open to the public. There are around 13 other playgrounds to visit across the Royal Parks.
After over two decades of use, much of the equipment, including the iconic sailing ship, had deteriorated beyond repair, prompting a complete overhaul. The free-to-enter site spans nearly two acres and is surrounded by sub-tropical planting.
Pupils from nearby St Mary Abbots School were given an early preview, testing the new equipment ahead of the public opening. The centrepiece of the revamped playground is an imposing new Galleon, measuring 17 metres by 12 metres, which sits on a sandy beach.
Young adventurers can scale two crow’s nests, hurtle down a large tunnel slide, and peer through a play telescope, while below deck they will find a play kitchen and numerous hidden corners to explore.
Andy Williams, Park Manager for Kensington Gardens, said: “We want to manage expectations and help people plan ahead.”
Visitors should also note that the waterplay area is currently not operational owing to the Thames Water hosepipe ban.
2026-08-04 18:58:00
