Kensington Gardens

Entry to Kensington Gardens is free for all visitors, and no booking is required to enjoy the parkland. The gardens open daily at 6:00 AM and close at dusk, which ranges from 4:30 PM in mid-winter to 9:45 PM in the height of summer. While the park is free, separate tickets are needed for Kensington Palace, costing approximately £25 for adults in 2026. This ticket includes access to the State Apartments and the Sunken Garden. For a break, the Italian Gardens Cafe and the Broad Walk Cafe offer a variety of stone-baked pizzas and snacks. Public toilets are available near the playground and the Albert Memorial. The park is fully accessible with paved paths, and the new inclusive facilities at the playground make it a welcoming space for visitors of all abilities.

If you are traveling with children, the Diana Memorial Playground is a major highlight. In 2026, it features a brand-new wooden galleon and improved accessible water play areas following a major renovation. Note that adults are only admitted if they are accompanying a child under 12. For those seeking the famous Peter Pan Statue, it is located on the west bank of the Long Water. While cycling is permitted on the Broad Walk and the Palace Walk, most other paths are for pedestrians only to maintain the park’s tranquil vibe. Photography is highly encouraged, but please be mindful of the privacy of the Royal Family near the palace boundaries. Lastly, if you plan to visit the Serpentine Galleries, check their schedules in advance as they often host free but high-demand contemporary art events.

The gardens are exceptionally well-connected by the London Underground. For those heading to the Diana Memorial Playground or the northern side, Queensway and Lancaster Gate stations on the Central line are just minutes away. To reach Kensington Palace or the southern end, High Street Kensington on the Circle and District lines is the best choice. South Kensington station is also convenient for a 15-minute walk up toward the Albert Memorial. Numerous buses, including the 9, 52, and 452, stop along Kensington High Street. If you prefer a scenic arrival, the park is a 20-minute walk from Paddington Station. Santander Cycle docking stations are located at various park gates, providing a great way to arrive via the city’s network of cycle lanes.