A playground honoring the memory of the late Diana, Princess of Wales, is scheduled to shut down for six months to allow for the replacement of its aging facilities.
Situated close to Diana’s previous residence, Kensington Palace, the site attracts over one million children annually, making it one of London’s most frequented recreational spots.
As part of a £3 million renovation project, the Peter Pan-themed playground will see enhancements including an upgraded pirate ship and a multi-level treehouse.
This play area, inaugurated in 2000, commemorates what would have been the princess’s 39th birthday.
The Royal Parks charity, which manages the playground in Kensington Gardens, indicated that the renovation plans aim to “preserve the essence of the current Peter Pan-themed playground.”
Furthermore, they intend to “enhance accessibility and inclusivity in play while providing more physically challenging activities, ensuring children of all abilities can engage in imaginative and creative play together,” the statement remarked.
The proposed upgrades will include a galleon that is more accessible, a tunnel slide, a rope bridge, and a seesaw bridge featuring a slide.
The treehouse will come with a suspension bridge, and the Mermaid Fountain will be revamped to enlarge the water and sand play area.
Kensington Gardens has a historical connection to Peter Pan, as JM Barrie, the character’s creator, was inspired by his frequent visits to the locale.
Andy Williams, the park manager for Kensington Gardens, expressed enthusiasm about incorporating new and improved features into the playground.
“It’s been fantastic to host millions of children at what is arguably one of the most iconic playgrounds globally. We’re excited to unveil the initial designs for this thrilling transformation,” he stated.
The playground will remain closed throughout the six-month renovation, scheduled between autumn 2025 and spring 2026.
