Kidadl.com is supported by its audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Read our Terms & Conditions for further information.
Please be aware of government guidelines before setting off.
Government Guidelines
Dating back to the 1700s, Kensington Gardens in London has been a favourite location of the British people for centuries. Along with being the current London residence of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, the palace was famously home to the royal Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, among other members of the Royal Family. The Victorian monarchs had a passion for gardening and shaped the grounds into the stunning landscape that can be seen today. If you’re looking for things to do in Kensington, the beautiful landscape and interactive features for kids make this 265-acre park a great place to visit with the whole family.
There are so many things to do in this Kensington park that it's easily one of the best parks in London. Marvel at the stunning landscape of the Italian Gardens, throw a coin into one of the gorgeously carved marble fountains and get a taste for the royal lifestyle at the café nearby. After undergoing renovations in 2011 this area of the Kensington Gardens has been brought back to its Victorian roots, with the original stonework being restored as well as plants from the original design being put back in place. A visit here will truly let you explore history by stepping into the past.
For a break from the outdoors, check out the cultural exhibitions at the Serpentine Galleries. Originally built as a tea room in 1934, the Serpentine Gallery boasts an extensive collection of contemporary art, with well-known artists from all over the world such as Andy Warhol and Damien Hirst having exhibited their work here. There is also a lot of artwork to spot around the grounds itself including many sculptures and monuments in honour of different members of the Royal Family. The kids will especially love the large Peter Pan statue that has been in place since 1912!
Kids will love letting their imaginations run wild in the Diana Memorial Playground. A tribute to the late Princess of Wales, this active play area celebrates Diana’s love for children and innocence. With a Peter Pan theme and features like teepees, a beached pirate ship, interactive sculptures and more there are so many things here that will delight children and adults alike.
Please follow the latest government guidelines if travelling by public transport.
Government GuidelinesThe Royal Parks Limited is a UK charity organisation that manages London’s eight royal parks and other areas of significant greenery in the capital city. The Royal Parks are originally owned by the Royal Family and monarchy of England and make up some of the most famous and best-loved parks in London. Making up 5,000 acres of gorgeous green space across the city, the eight Royal Parks include Hyde Park in central London, its enclosed Kensington Gardens, Bushy Park near Hampton Court Palace, St James’s Park featuring the world-famous Mall, The Green Park - a hit with commuters, Regent’s Park and Primrose Hill with stunning views of the capital, Greenwich Park in South East London, the newly-restored Brompton Cemetery, Victoria Tower Gardens at the heart of Westminster, and of course Richmond Park - the biggest park in London. Four of the expansive parks also make up the Royal Parks Half Marathon route, which has been taking place in October each year since 2008 and ends in the iconic Hyde Park, attracting over 16,000 participants.