Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Walk

I’ve always found London’s energy to be electric, but every time I follow the Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Walk, the city softens. It’s contemplative. Emotional. Almost sacred. This walk isn’t just a trail; it’s a tribute, winding through royal parks and past landmarks that defined Diana’s life and legacy.

Whether you’re a royal history fan or just need a peaceful walk that connects green spaces, monuments, and memory, this route delivers something profound. And with the StoryHunt London audio walk in your ears, you don’t just see London - you feel it.

What is the story behind the Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Walk?

The Diana Memorial Walk was opened in 2000, three years after her tragic passing, as a tribute to her humanitarian work and deep connection with the people. It’s a 7-mile circular trail (we’ll get to the details shortly) that links four royal parks: St James’s Park, Green Park, Hyde Park, and Kensington Gardens.

Along the route, you'll encounter 90 plaques set in the ground - each bearing a rose emblem and marking key places tied to Diana’s life. From Kensington Palace, where she lived, to Spencer House, and even near Buckingham Palace, the walk traces the public and private spaces that defined the “People’s Princess.”

What I love most? It’s open, unfussy, and full of both grandeur and quiet reflection.

How long is the Diana Memorial Walk?

The full Diana Memorial Walk is 7 miles (11 kilometers) long. I’ve done it more than once - sometimes in sections, sometimes all in one go - and while it’s certainly walkable in a single day, I always recommend breaking it up over an afternoon or two.

Start at Kensington Gardens for a peaceful intro, or jump in at St James’s Park if you're already exploring central London. The route is well-marked and passes some of London’s most famous locations, including spots featured on the StoryHunt audio tour.

Wear comfy shoes, bring a bottle of water, and allow yourself to linger.

Can you visit Princess Diana's memorial?

Yes - and actually, there are two major Diana memorials in London, and both are worth visiting.

1. The Diana Memorial Fountain in Hyde Park is the most visited. It’s a modern, circular granite stream that encourages visitors - especially children - to wade in and connect. It was designed to reflect Diana’s openness and love for children. You can find directions and details on the Royal Parks website.
2. The Diana Memorial Walk itself is a larger tribute, guiding you through London landmarks connected to her story. It’s more interpretive - there are no statues or plaques with long inscriptions, just symbolic markers, encouraging personal reflection along the way.

Both sites are public, free to visit, and deeply moving.

What is the best part of the Diana Memorial Walk?

Everyone has their favourite stretch, but for me, nothing beats the section through Kensington Gardens. It’s where Diana lived, and walking through the Sunken Garden - now home to the Princess Diana Memorial Statue, unveiled in 2021 - feels especially personal.

The Hyde Park section near the Serpentine is also stunning, especially on a warm afternoon. You can stop by the Diana Memorial Playground if you’re with kids (or just want to feel the joy she championed).

And near St James’s Park, you’re not far from Westminster Abbey and Downing Street, which you’ll hear more about in the StoryHunt London audio walk - it adds rich context to every plaque you pass.

Is it worth seeing Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Walk?

Absolutely. This isn’t your average sightseeing route. It’s a deeply human and emotionally rich experience, whether you're a longtime admirer of Diana or simply seeking a new way to explore London.

You’ll discover serene green spaces, major landmarks, and quieter corners you might otherwise overlook. And because it’s free, self-guided, and woven into the urban fabric, you can tailor the experience to your own pace.

Pair it with the StoryHunt Central London walk to deepen your understanding of the royal and political backdrop of Diana’s life. It’s one of the few walks in London that feels both grand and grounding.

What else is nearby Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Walk?

The walk links seamlessly to many of London’s most iconic landmarks - some of which you’ll also visit in the StoryHunt audio walk. Here are four highlights worth adding to your itinerary:

• Westminster Abbey: Where Diana’s funeral was held in 1997. It’s one of London’s most powerful historic sites and just a short walk from the St James’s Park section of the memorial route.
• Big Ben & Houses of Parliament: Visible from many points on the walk, especially near Westminster Bridge. Hear its chimes and feel the history - then learn the deeper stories via the StoryHunt audio guide.
• The National Gallery: At the northern end of Trafalgar Square, it’s free, accessible, and filled with masterpieces. A perfect break point on your memorial walk.
• Admiralty Arch: The ceremonial gateway between The Mall and Trafalgar Square. It’s a key transition point on the walk.

You don’t need a guidebook - just good walking shoes, a curious heart, and if you’re smart, the StoryHunt audio walk in your ears.