Princess Diana Playground Reopens After £3M Renovation

The Princess Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Playground in Kensington Gardens has reopened following a nearly year-long, £3 million renovation. The Peter Pan-themed attraction, which first opened in 2000, welcomed visitors back on August 5, 2026, after essential equipment, most notably its iconic wooden sailing ship, had deteriorated beyond repair after more than two decades of intensive public use.

The renovation, funded and led by The Royal Parks charity, represents a complete overhaul designed to enhance accessibility, inclusivity, and sustainability. The centerpiece of the revamped playground is a new 17-meter-long custom wooden pirate galleon, constructed from sustainably sourced mountain larch wood. The ship, situated on its own sandy beach, features two crow's nests, a large tunnel slide, a play kitchen below deck, and wheelchair access. Other new play features include a multi-story treehouse with a four-meter slide, an extended crocodile-shaped water play feature, and a dedicated toddler zone with timber houses and sand play areas.

Park officials have emphasized the design's focus on inclusive play for children of all abilities and interests. Andy Williams, Park...