Diana Memorial Playground
The Royal Parks · London
A magical free playground in Kensington Gardens centred around a wooden pirate ship. Perfect for younger children with plenty of sandpits and climbing structures.
Why families love it
- The enormous wooden pirate ship offers multiple levels of climbing, scrambling and imaginative play that keeps children engaged for hours on end.
- Soft sand covers much of the playground surface, creating beaches and digging areas that feel genuinely beach-like rather than token sandpits.
- Teepees, sensory trails and a crocodile sculpture create different zones for quieter play away from the main ship if little ones need breathing space.
Best for
Families with children under eight who want a genuinely free outdoor experience where kids can get properly sandy and parents can relax on ample seating.
Good to know
Arrive before 10am or after 3pm in summer holidays to avoid overwhelming crowds. The playground is fully enclosed with controlled entry and exit points, so runners can't bolt. Bring spare clothes because children will get absolutely covered in sand, and there are taps for washing sandy hands and feet near the exit. The nearest cafe is the Diana Memorial Playground Café just outside the gates, though it's pricey for what you get.
Practical info
- Age guidance
- Best suited for children aged one to eight years old, with entry completely free for everyone regardless of age.
- Typical cost
- Entirely free to enter and use all facilities, though the adjacent café charges typical London park prices for drinks and snacks.
- How long to allow
- Most families spend around two hours here once children are absorbed in play, though you could easily stretch to three hours with snack breaks.
- Last checked
- May 2026