William III bought what was originally part of Hyde Park in 1689.
An asthma sufferer, the king found the location quiet and the air salubrious and so he commissioned Sir Christopher Wren to design the redbrick building that is Kensington Palace. Queen Anne enlarged the Palace Gardens by 'transferring' 30 acres from Hyde Park and was responsible for the creation of the Orangery in 1704.
The Gardens are particularly popular for sunbathing and picnics... Read more >>

William III bought what was originally part of Hyde Park in 1689.
An asthma sufferer, the king found the location quiet and the air salubrious and so he commissioned Sir Christopher Wren to design the redbrick building that is Kensington Palace. Queen Anne enlarged the Palace Gardens by 'transferring' 30 acres from Hyde Park and was responsible for the creation of the Orangery in 1704.
The Gardens are particularly popular for sunbathing and picnics in fine weather. It is also popular as a healthy walking route to work for commuters. The paths are used extensively by joggers and runners. Cycling is allowed on the designated path linking the Queen's Gate to West Carriage Drive, Mount Gate to the Broadwalk and the broadwalk itself from Black Lion Gate to Palace Gate.
Informal games do take place in the Gardens but are discouraged in view of the importance of the historic landscape and the desire to maintain their primary role as a peaceful refuge for people living, working or visiting Central London.
The Diana, Princess of Wales' Memorial Playground is a fantastic adventure for kids up to the age of 12. Over 750,000 parents and children enjoy the playground each year.

High Street Kensington
Book online: Use the links below
Telephone Booking: 0844 871 7627
Customer Service: 0844 871 7627
Groups Bookings: 0844 871 7627
If you’ve worked up an appetite on your journey to Narnia, make your way to The Pavilion Bar where you will find a delicious array of quiches, freshly prepared sandwiches and a delectable selection of cakes. Enjoy a glass of Champagne, Summer Pimms or a chilled glass of wine whilst lounging in our summer garden overlooking the glorious Kensington Palace.
For those with a sweet tooth, make your way to our traditional pic and mix stand with a wide selection of classic favourites. Fresh popcorn, delicious ice cream and natural sorbets are also available to buy.
You can also enjoy a sumptuous picnic in the park before the show. Pre-order picnics when booking your tickets online or at the box office.
The Pavilion Bar and picnic collection point are open two hours before each show.
We look forward to welcoming you.
Have you got a special occasion that you’d like to celebrate in the stunning setting of Kensington Gardens?
We can host bespoke events and design hospitality packages to delight your friends, families or guests. Previous events we have catered for include:
Please call us to discuss your requirements on 0207 514 5854 or email info@rouge-events.com and a member of our team will be able to help you with your special event.



The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe
Family Workshops
Working with a professional actor, the workshop will explore storytelling techniques, including warm up games and a discussion on the art of storytelling. Using the traditional fairytale genre as your inspiration, you will investigate the story of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe and way to perform it.
For parents and children aged 4+
£8.00 per participant
Dates of workshops:
Wednesday 1st August 11:30am and
Thursday 9th August 11:30am
Running Time: 1 hour
You can book the workshops when purchasing your tickets for shows on these days and create a great day out!
Group Workshops
We offer bespoke group workshops to enhance your visit to The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.
For more information and to arrange your workshop, please contact:
Zoe Briggs
Creative Learning Officer (West End)
zoebriggs@theambassadors.com
0207 420 4800