Sport & leisure in Kensington Gardens

Discover Kensington Gardens at your leisure

Kensington Gardens was originally part of Hyde Park but was annexed by King William III and his wife to create a beautiful garden for their new London home, Kensington Palace. Whether you love art or history, wildlife or formal gardens, Kensington Gardens has something for everyone to enjoy. Despite its many impressive monuments, memorials and mansions, Kensington is, at its heart, a peaceful, green oasis. A place to keep fit and active, reconnect with nature, and restore your sense of wellbeing. 

Walking, running and cycling in Kensington Gardens

Discover the secret histories of the park with a self-guided walk, or join one of our guided walking tours. Many local runners and cyclists commute through the park – it’s a great way to unwind after work and stay fit. If you are cycling through, please do respect other park users – and the wildlife – who share the paths and trails. If you are ready for a longer adventure on foot, try the Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Walk. 

If you enjoy team sports and organised activities, head over to Hyde Park, where you can book a game of tennis, padel, cricket or rugby. Park Sports Hyde Park has excellent sports facilities, courts and pitches on the south side of the park. 

Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Walk

The Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Walk covers seven miles, and takes in four Royal Parks, three palaces and two mansions, all of which were special to Princess Diana at different times in her life. Follow the 90 bronze plaques embedded along the route. 

The Princess and the Palace

Princess Diana lived at Kensington Palace, one of the most intimate royal palaces, for much of her married life, and you can tour the State Apartments, and stroll through the formal gardens, designed in the Dutch style by Queen Mary, wife of King William III. 

Book your tickets to visit Kensington Palace here.

Art in the park

Serpentine Gallery North and South are two of London’s most high profile contemporary art spaces. The galleries, in the heart of Kensington Gardens, showcase world class talent in art, design and architecture. If you’re visiting us during the summer, don’t miss the annual Pavilion, commissioned from a different prominent architect each year and an important event in the capital’s arts calendar.