Diana memorial playground galleon renewal

Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Playground renewal

After welcoming children for 25 years of play, since the playground opened in 2000, many of the playground's play features have now reached the end of their life.  

The Royal Parks charity is undertaking a £3 million renewal of the much-loved playground.  

The renewed playground will retain the characteristics of the existing Peter Pan-inspired playground but will provide more accessible and inclusive play, as well as  challenging physical play, so that children of all abilities can enjoy creative and imaginative play together. 

Diana memorial playground tree encampment renewal

A new Galleon, constructed with sustainably-sourced timber over three levels, with wheelchair accessible spaces, will replace the existing pirate ship. The Galleon will include an additional ‘crow’s nest’ and a double storey ‘stern’ with a ship’s wheel and a telescope.  

 

Diana memorial playground accessible galleon

A new multiple-level Tree House Encampment constructed with sustainably-sourced timber will provide opportunities for children to climb and play at different heights and includes areas accessible to wheelchairs. 

Three towers at different heights will provide different levels of challenge, while other features include a suspension bridge, a tunnel slide, a rope bridge and a see-saw bridge with a slide.

Diana memorial playground tree encampment

A redesigned and improved Mermaid Fountain will expand the water and sand play area. The new designs will allow runoff water to be collected and reused for irrigation.

New tree planting for shade and biodiversity, together with sensory, allergy-friendly and pollinator-friendly planting will improve the playground’s natural setting, alongside new seating and paths which will improve access for all.

We’re working together with local communities, especially children, to gather and incorporate their feedback into the designs at every stage, so that that all children feel welcome and can enjoy free, accessible, creative and social play, fostering their health and wellbeing.

The playground will close in autumn 2025 with the works completed in spring 2026.  

Thank you for your patience during this time. For any enquiries please contact us here

Diana memorial playground galleon