The Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Playground in Kensington Gardens, West London, will reopen tomorrow (Wednesday, August 5) following a £3 million refurbishment by The Royal Parks. The Peter Pan-inspired park, which attracts over one million visitors annually, closed in October last year to replace older equipment, including the large sailing ship.
New features unveiled after extensive upgrade
The centerpiece of the makeover is a brand new 17-metre by 12-metre Galleon ship moored on a sandy beach. Children can also explore a new treehouse featuring three different towers and a tunnel slide. A "larger-than-life" crocodile structure has been installed within a waterplay area, while younger children have a redesigned play area with tree houses, play ships, and a large sandpit.
Andy Williams, Park Manager for Kensington Gardens, expressed excitement about the reopening: “We know that children across London, the UK and the world have been eagerly awaiting the reopening of this playground, and we can’t wait to see their reactions when they visit. We know they will absolutely love it.”
Focus on inclusivity and accessibility
The Royal Parks charity has prioritized inclusivity and accessibility, ensuring children of all abilities can play together. This includes wheelchair-accessible spaces in the Galleon and Treehouse, a new accessible path, and raised tables in water play and sand areas. Sensory planting, an upgraded musical area, and numerous interactive play features have also been added.
Williams added: “This playground has been thoughtfully designed so that children of all abilities and interests can find something that appeals to them. Children can once again splash, swing, climb and hide in this almost two-acre playground set amongst sub-tropical planting.”
Sustainability at the core
The design emphasizes sustainability, using timber from sustainably managed European forests and collecting water for irrigation. The playground, set within Kensington Gardens, is one of the most visited in the UK, and the refurbishment aims to enhance its appeal for families during the summer holidays and beyond.
The park's reopening is expected to draw large crowds, with its unique Peter Pan theme and new attractions offering a fresh experience for returning visitors and first-timers alike.
