London is a city of unique landmarks, steeped in culture and the arts. Within its streets, the past and present intertwine to reflect the true spirit of the British capital. One particularly poignant site is the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain in Hyde Park. A tribute to her kindness, sincerity, and compassion, it stands as a lasting honour to her legacy. Read more at london-future.
Who was Princess Diana?
Diana Frances Spencer, Princess of Wales, was a prominent member of the British Royal Family. As the first wife of Charles III (then the Prince of Wales) and the mother of Princes William and Harry, her warmth and tireless activism earned her global devotion, cementing her status as an international icon.
In 1981, while working as a nursery teacher’s assistant, she married Charles, the eldest son of Queen Elizabeth II. Their wedding at St Paul’s Cathedral captured the world’s imagination. From that moment, she became the Princess of Wales, a role she stepped into with immense public support. Although the couple had two sons, the marriage eventually collapsed under the strain of extramarital affairs.
As Princess of Wales, Diana captivated the media with her beauty, charm, and impeccable style, but it was her modern approach to charity that truly defined her. Initially focusing on children and the elderly, she expanded her reach to those suffering from cancer and mental health issues. Despite her initial shyness, her natural charisma won over the public. This stellar reputation allowed her to remain a beloved figure even after her marriage ended. A natural in front of the camera, she became the ultimate fashion icon of the 1980s and 90s.
Tragedy struck in August 1997 when Princess Diana died following a car crash in Paris. Her death sparked an unprecedented wave of public mourning. A subsequent inquest into the accident resulted in a verdict of unlawful killing.
The Memorial Fountain
The Memorial Fountain was established in London to celebrate the Princess’s life and her particular love for children. Located south of the Serpentine lake and east of the Serpentine Gallery, the first stone was laid in September 2003. It was officially opened on 6 July 2004. Its location in Hyde Park is deeply symbolic, as it was one of the Princess’s favourite places in the capital.
Designed by Kathryn Gustafson, the fountain was intended to be a fitting tribute to the Princess’s spirit. The oval design reflects her life and character. Built into a gentle slope, water rises to the highest point before flowing down in two directions. The structure features various steps, curves, and rills that cause the water to swirl and ripple as it descends into the pool. these different textures represent the dual nature of Diana’s life: the periods of immense happiness alongside the more turbulent times.
The construction involved 545 individual pieces of Cornish granite. Each piece was cut using state-of-the-art machinery before being meticulously assembled by hand. The water itself is constantly refreshed, drawn from London’s natural underground springs.
Safety and Maintenance
The fountain was originally designed to be accessible, allowing visitors to cross through the water. However, after three people were hospitalised due to slips, the site was temporarily closed. It reopened with a perimeter fence and wardens to ensure that visitors do not run through the water.
The surrounding grass also faced challenges, with heavy footfall threatening to turn the area into a quagmire after rain. This led to a further renovation project in December 2004, which included drainage improvements, the laying of new hard-wearing surfaces in high-traffic areas, and the sowing of a bespoke grass seed mix.
Public Significance
Every element of the fountain’s design is a reflection of the Princess. Three bridges allow visitors to cross the water and reach the heart of the memorial. People are encouraged to sit on the edge and dip their feet in the water to cool off. Accessibility was a priority, with a dedicated path ensuring that everyone can enjoy the site. Today, it serves as both a monument and a sanctuary where Londoners and tourists can relax and reflect on the values Diana championed.
Beyond the oval fountain, the site is part of the seven-mile Princess Diana Memorial Walk. Marked by 90 floor plaques, the trail leads visitors through St James’s Park, Green Park, Hyde Park, and Kensington Gardens.
This high-profile, state-funded project has attracted millions of visitors and won international acclaim. It remains one of London’s most popular attractions because it commemorates a woman who was a hero to many. The fountain stands as a symbol of her kindness and tireless work, continuing to inspire new generations.
Other Memorials
The fountain is not the only memorial dedicated to the Princess in London. In Kensington Gardens, the Diana Memorial Playground serves as a vibrant tribute. Its design, inspired by the stories of Peter Pan, is a fitting nod to her well-known love for children and her playful spirit.