I took the babes to the Diana Memorial Playground at Kensington Gardens to meet up with my Cybermummy buddy Jacqui, of Mummy’s Little Monkey fame.
It was great to catch up with Jacqui (she looks fab going on 8 months preggers!) and to meet her sweet Lucia, just turned 2, in the flesh. It was also fun to check out the playground again as it’s been over two years since my last visit.
Set in one of London’s most handsome parks, near the Queensway Station entrance, the Diana Memorial Playground is a lovingly designed wonderland for kids of any age. The playground theme is inspired by the legend of Peter Pan.
Each time we go it seems there’s something new to discover, from the sensory trail and brand new play tunnel to the stone-carved crocodile lurking by the treasure chest.
Like most of the bigger kids, Ezra soon clambered onto the huge pirate’s ship – the park’s main attraction – and got into full ‘ya haargh, matey’ mode… until a naughty pirate threw water in his face and gave me back my little boy again.
Lucia got stuck into the huge sand pit and every available puddle or mini-fountain, until she was sopping wet and had to be disrobed. She looked ultra-cute wearing Ezra’s monkey top as a mini-dress.
Once I could prise Jed from the swings, he loved climbing up into the wooden play huts, riding on the huge see-saw (almost) by himself and generally roaming around in all that space.
Although I did have to chase him around a little, at least I felt quite safe as the playground is enclosed with security at the gate. You’re not even allowed inside unless you’ve got kids with you.
As Jacqui and I nattered away the time whizzed by and despite the forecast and a few ominous clouds, there wasn’t a drop of rain.
The Diana Memorial Playground is really a beautiful and chilled out place to have an afternoon playdate. There are toilets with baby-changing facilities on site as well as a café serving hot fresh food with kids’ menu.
You can round off the day with a ride on the carousel just outside the playground. That’s if your little ones aren’t already dizzy enough from their adventures!
The Diana Memorial Playground at Kensington Gardens is open all-year round (except Dec 25). Check the web site for opening and closing times.
Awww, they all look so cute! I must admit I was REALLY impressed with the playground – so much so I’ve been back again already. This time I took a complete change of clothes for Lucia, but of course, because I was prepared, she didn’t need them – typical! xx
Hey Jacqui, it is a great place to hang out isn’t it? I’m definitely planning another visit soon and I’ll also go prepared! Lucia was so sweet and independent too. Looking forward to our next outing, though next time we’ll be double-dating eh? ;-)