The focal point of a £3 million renovation at the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Playground near Kensington Palace is nearing completion. The playground, currently closed for a major transformation, will unveil a new ‘full-scale’ wooden ship for children to enjoy when it reopens this summer.
Crafted in the Bavarian Alps, the 12-meter tall galleon has been meticulously inspected by Royal Parks staff before its journey to London. The playground’s upgrade, costing £3 million, is aimed at replacing the aging equipment.
The revitalized play area will showcase the impressive galleon, featuring a tunnel slide, two crows nests, and a ramped entrance for disabled access. In addition to the ship, visitors can explore a new treehouse, redesigned water play area, and an under-threes section. The ship incorporates mountain larch wood from sustainable forests in the Bavarian Alps, known for its strength and natural resistance to decay.
Manufactured by Timberplay and Richter Spielgerate in the German village of Frasdorf, the new structure follows the design principles of the original Peter Pan-themed galleon that debuted in 2000. Andy Williams, the park manager, emphasized the playground’s ability to spark children’s imaginations in a secure environment, staying true to Princess Diana’s legacy.
Paul Collings, Timberplay’s managing director, expressed confidence that the new galleon and treehouse will set a standard for public play, delighting children for years. Peter Heuken from Richter Spielgerate, who contributed to the 2000 galleon, echoed the sentiment, highlighting the playground’s enduring appeal.
The Diana Memorial Playground, inaugurated in 2000, stands on the site of a former playground established in 1906 by JM Barrie, the author of Peter Pan. Despite the absence of royal attendees at the opening, the playground attracts around one million visitors annually, making it the most popular playground in the UK, according to the Royal Parks.