Hidden Stories of Kensington Gardens

Kensington Gardens offers a mix of old and new park pastimes and green space.

Discover hidden stories with a walking tour of the beautiful Kensington Gardens. Hear the tales behind its famous statues, including the beloved Peter Pan, the Garden’s famous fictional resident. The bronze statue features Peter Pan surrounded by squirrels, rabbits, mice, and fairies. Peter Pan creator and local resident JM Barrie was inspired by Kensington Gardens. He commissioned Sir George Frampton to build the statue which has been a favourite feature of the gardens since 1912.

Marvel at the history and heritage of Kensington Palace, visitors can walk through the King’s State Apartments, the Queen’s State Apartments and the Gardens. There are also exhibitions plus a shop and The Orangery cafe.

Go behind the railings and admire the Victorian splendour of Albert Memorial, one of London’s most ornate monuments, designed by George Gilbert Scott.. Unveiled in 1872, The Albert Memorial commemorates the death of Prince Albert, Queen Victoria’s husband, who died of typhoid fever at the age of 42.

Get your fix of contemporary art and architecture at the Serpentine Galleries, with exhibitions timed to take place in spring and summer. Over in the Diana Memorial Playground, kids can enjoy the huge wooden pirate ship, sensory trail and play sculptures, inspired by the adventures of fictional park hero, Peter Pan. The

Royal Parks offer free spaces for those in need. For more information on eligibility and how to book a walking tour please call or email Loveday Lewthwaite on 03000612255 or llewthwaite@royalparks.org.uk.

Kensington Gardens is one of London’s eight Royal Parks and covers an area of 265 acres. royalparks.org.uk

Diana Memorial Playground will be closed for 5 days between Monday 15th and Friday 19th May 2023 for essential maintenance works.

Learn about how Kensington Gardens was gradually separated from Hyde Park by a succession of royals who created its distinctive mix of stately avenues, formal planting, wild meadows and long views. Finally, relax and enjoy this green refuge in the busy city and hear how The Royal Parks look after its ecological balance. You can even pick up tips for growing fruit and vegetables from the park’s very own allotment which is also home to a number of chickens.