The Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Playground, a beloved space in Kensington Gardens, is set to undergo a transformative £3 million upgrade to enhance its features and accessibility.
The playground, inspired by J.M. Barrie’s Peter Pan, welcomes over a million visitors annually and stands as a tribute to Diana’s legacy of compassion and inclusivity.
Opened in 2000 to commemorate what would have been the late princess’s 39th birthday, the playground sits near Kensington Palace, Diana’s former London residence.
Its centrepiece, the iconic pirate ship, will be replaced by a state-of-the-art galleon designed to accommodate children of all abilities.
The Royal Parks charity, which manages the site, stated that the refurbishment will preserve the playground’s magical Peter Pan theme while making it more accessible and inclusive.
New features will promote creative, imaginative, and physically challenging play for children with diverse needs.
“The plans will retain the characteristics of the existing Peter Pan-inspired playground but will provide more accessible and inclusive play,” said a spokesperson for the Royal Parks.
The redevelopment is scheduled to begin in autumn 2025, with the playground closing for six months to facilitate the works. It is expected to reopen in spring 2026, offering a refreshed and modernised experience for families from around the world.
The Diana Memorial Playground was conceived to honour the princess’s deep commitment to children’s welfare and her enduring legacy of kindness.
Designed to spark imagination, it features sensory trails, tepees, and a sandy beach surrounding the pirate ship, inspired by Barrie’s Peter Pan—a story closely tied to Kensington Gardens.
Diana, Princess of Wales, lived at Kensington Palace for much of her life, and her association with the area adds to the playground’s sentimental value.
Over the years, it has become a popular destination for families visiting London, with its mix of themed play areas and peaceful seating spots for adults.
