The central feature of a £3 million renovation of the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Playground, located beside her former residence at Kensington Palace, is nearing completion. The playground is currently closed for extensive upgrades and is set to reopen this summer, showcasing a new ‘full-scale’ wooden ship for children’s play.
Crafted in the Bavarian Alps, the ship has undergone inspection by Royal Parks staff before its journey to London for installation in Kensington Gardens. With an investment of £3 million in playground improvements, Royal Parks is replacing outdated equipment to enhance the play area.
Upon reopening, the playground will showcase a 12-meter-tall galleon complete with a tunnel slide, two crows nests, and a ramped entrance for disabled access. Additionally, the revamped area will include a new treehouse, redesigned water play zone, and a dedicated section for children under three years old. The new ship incorporates mountain larch wood sourced from sustainable forests in the Bavarian Alps, known for its durability and natural resistance to decay.
Constructed in Frasdorf, Germany, by Timberplay and Richter Spielgerate, the same designers behind the original Peter Pan-themed galleon installed in 2000, the new ship aims to spark children’s imaginations in a secure environment. Park manager Andy Williams emphasized the playground’s alignment with Princess Diana’s spirit, providing a safe and imaginative space for young visitors.
Timberplay’s managing director, Paul Collings, expressed confidence that the new galleon and treehouse will establish the playground as a premier destination for public play, delighting generations of children. Peter Heuken, head of planning and projects at Richter Spielgerate, echoed this sentiment, noting the honor in seeing well-loved equipment enjoyed by children over time.
The Diana Memorial Playground, inaugurated in June 2000 on the site of a previous playground established in 1906 by JM Barrie, has attracted millions of visitors annually, making it the UK’s most frequented playground, according to the Royal Parks. The forthcoming addition of the new wooden ship is poised to further enhance the appeal of the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Playground in Kensington Gardens.