Things to do in Kensington Gardens

Kensington Gardens – a magical park for all ages

Whether you’re an art lover, a music lover, a nature lover or a child at heart, just here for the day or a Kensington Gardens regular – you’ll find a little bit of magic here.

Kensington Gardens has a rich, colourful past – and its many monuments, statues and fountains make a great introduction to its history.  From The Albert Memorial; the high water mark of Victorian Gothic, to the elegant Italian Gardens, or the charming Peter Pan statue, you can spend a delightful hour or two discovering the history and heritage of the park. Join one of our experts for one of our monthly Hidden Stories of Kensington Gardens. 

The palace in the park

For many Londoners, Kensington Gardens is closely associated Diana, Princess of Wales. The Princess lived at Kensington Palace and was said to tap dance and roller skate in the State Rooms! If you want to visit Kensington Palace, you’ll need to book ahead.

If you’re up for a longer walk than a lunchtime stroll, the Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Walk covers seven miles, and crosses four Royal Parks – you’ll be guided by the 90 plaques along the route.

Kensington Gardens – made for mini adventures

Whether you’re taking a break from city sightseeing with the family, or you’re park regulars, the whole of Kensington Gardens makes a wonderful playground for children of all ages. It’s forever associated with J.M. Barrie’s childhood classic, Peter Pan, but you’ll also find the Elfin Oak here with its miniature world of woodland creatures, and best of all (if you’re under 12), a huge pirate ship, complete with its own beach, at the Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Playground. 

Art in the park

Kensington Gardens is famous for having not one world-renowned contemporary art gallery, but two. Serpentine Gallery North and South are dedicated to showcasing the most exciting and innovative work of contemporary and emerging artists and architects. If you’re visiting during the summer, you’ll also see the annual architectural Pavilion, commissioned every year from a leading architect.