Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Playground

Time Out says

Wed Jun 20 2012

The Diana, Princess of Wales’ Memorial Playground celebrated

its tenth anniversary in June 2010. This commemorative play area is easily the best bit of Kensington Gardens for a child. A huge pirate ship on its own beach takes centre stage (take buckets and spades). Beyond this lies the tepee camp: a trio of wigwams, each large enough to hold a sizeable tribe, and a tree-house encampment with walkways, ladders, slides and ‘tree phones’.

  The area’s connection with Peter Pan creator JM Barrie is remembered in scenes from the story, etched into the glass in the Home Under the Ground. Many of the playground’s attractions appeal to the senses (scented shrubs, whispering willows and bamboo are planted throughout), and much of the equipment has

been designed for use by children with special needs, including

those in wheelchairs. There’s also plenty of seating for parents, and unaccompanied adults aren’t allowed in. A programme of free entertainment includes visits by clowns and storytelling sessions; check the website for details. The café has a children’s menu and serves good ice-cream.