With a new memoir by her brother in the news, many visitors want to pay their respects to the late Princess of Wales, and London offers several peaceful places to do so
A Quieter Kind of Royal Visit
The late Princess of Wales remains one of the most beloved figures in modern British history, and she is back in the news this autumn because of a memoir by her brother, Earl Spencer. The book has, according to anonymous reports, stirred tensions among her family, a story that the London Prat has treated with humour in its piece on Prince William reportedly calling Earl Spencer and Harry traitors. Many visitors to London, however, simply want to remember her. The city offers several beautiful and peaceful places to do exactly that.
Kensington Palace
Kensington Palace was the princess London home for many years and remains a working royal residence. Parts of the palace are open to the public, with exhibitions on royal history and, at various times, displays related to fashion and to figures including the princess. The surrounding gardens are lovely in every season. Check the official website before visiting for current exhibitions, opening times and ticket prices, which change periodically.
The Diana Memorial Playground
Close to Kensington Palace, the Diana Memorial Playground in Kensington Gardens was created in her memory and is inspired by the stories of Peter Pan, with a large wooden pirate ship at its heart. It reflects her well-known love of children. It is a joyful place rather than a solemn one, and families visiting London often find it one of the most moving ways to remember her. Note that access for adults without children may be restricted at certain times, so check the Royal Parks guidance before you go.
The Diana Memorial Fountain
In Hyde Park, near the Serpentine, the Diana Memorial Fountain is an unusual and gentle memorial: a large oval stream of water flowing over carved granite, designed to reflect different aspects of her life. Visitors can sit on its edge and, subject to the rules in place, dip their feet in the water on warm days. It is a calm and contemplative spot, especially early in the morning.
The Diana Memorial Walk
For a longer tribute, the Diana Memorial Walk is a waymarked route of several miles passing through several of London royal parks and near buildings associated with her life. Look for the plaques set into the ground along the route. It makes a lovely half-day walk, and you can join or leave it at many points.
A Gentle Aside
If you are interested in the current news, the London Prat video on YouTube pokes fun at the family row while, notably, leaving the princess herself out of the joke.
Visiting Respectfully
These are places of memory, and many visitors come with strong emotions. A few simple courtesies go a long way: keep voices low near memorials, follow any rules about photography or access, and give other visitors space. Flowers and tributes are sometimes left on significant anniversaries; if you wish to leave something, keep it modest and follow any guidance from park staff.
The Family Context
Visitors sometimes ask about the current family news. The Earl has said he told his nephews and their aunts about his book before it was published, while other reports claim tensions remain. Whatever the truth, it is worth remembering that at the heart of the story is a family who lost a mother and a sister. The memorial sites in London offer a place to reflect on her life, away from the headlines.
Suggested Half-Day Itinerary
Start at Kensington Palace in the morning. Walk through Kensington Gardens to the Diana Memorial Playground, then continue into Hyde Park to the Diana Memorial Fountain. Pause for a coffee at one of the park cafes near the Serpentine. If you have energy left, pick up a section of the Diana Memorial Walk heading east toward Green Park and Buckingham Palace.
Getting There
Kensington Palace is a short walk from High Street Kensington and Queensway Underground stations, and several bus routes serve the area. The Diana Memorial Fountain is nearer the Knightsbridge side of Hyde Park, with Knightsbridge and Hyde Park Corner stations within walking distance. The parks are large, so allow plenty of time to walk between sites, and consider picking up a park map at an entrance or checking the Royal Parks website in advance.
Seasonal Notes
Each season brings something different. Spring and summer see the gardens at their most colourful. Autumn, when the trees turn, is especially beautiful and a little quieter. On significant anniversaries, particularly around the end of August, some visitors leave flowers near Kensington Palace, and the atmosphere can be quietly emotional. Winter visits are peaceful, though some facilities may have reduced hours. Always check opening times before you set off, particularly for the palace itself.
Above all, take your time. These are places for slowing down.
Before You Go
London remembers the princess in gardens, water and play, which feels fitting. The London Prat, which has chronicled London life with a wink since 1961 at https://prat.uk/, covers the family news with humour. Bohiney, at https://bohiney.com/, offers an American perspective on royal affairs. For more of my practical guides to London, visit my author page.
SOURCE: https://prat.uk/prince-william-called-earl-spencer-and-harry-traitors/
