Great Ormond Street Hospital – Neverland at Kenwood House

Happy New Year 🤍 I hope you had a lovely little break.Mine? Truly wonderful.

I baked an indecent amount of Peanut Butter Blossoms, made my famous festive toffee pecan upside-down cake… and I also came back from Neverland — yes, that Neverland. Peter Pan’s Neverland.

I did discover this a little late, but by some miracle, I managed to snag a last-minute ticket — and honestly, it felt meant to be.

Now, no, I’m not a child. And no, I don’t have a child. But this trip was essential, because it supports a cause that is incredibly close to my heart. As a former Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH) patient myself, I’ve always promised to support their causes and events whenever I can.

GOSH did so much for me that I once half-joked it was my second home — though the gratitude I feel is something I’ll never be able to fully put into words. I will forever feel indebted to the doctors and nurses who quite literally saved my life. They are real-life superheroes to so many children and families.

A special shout-out to Dr Cullen and Nurse Rose — thank you for believing in me, supporting me, and fixing me. GOSH isn’t just a children’s hospital; it’s a sanctuary. A place of hope, comfort, and life-changing care when families need it most.

Why GOSH Is So Special

Great Ormond Street Hospital isn’t just remarkable because of its history — though that alone is extraordinary. Founded in 1852, it was the UK’s very first children’s hospital, starting with just ten beds in a townhouse. Since then, it has grown into one of the world’s leading centres for paediatric care.

It’s a place that has pioneered life-saving treatments, from early respiratory support to groundbreaking heart and gene therapies. Many of the most complex cases from across the UK — and beyond — are treated here. What makes this even more incredible is that much of the hospital’s innovation, research, and specialist equipment is funded through charity support.

There’s also something beautifully poetic about its connection to Peter Pan. In 1929, J.M. Barrie gifted the rights of Peter Pan to GOSH, meaning Neverland has quite literally helped keep the magic — and the medicine — alive for generations of children.

Stepping Into Neverland

Despite the freezing cold (which I absolutely pretended wasn’t happening), I had the time of my life. Was I the only adult there without a child? Yes. Was I mildly embarrassed? Maybe for half a second. Did I care? Not at all.

I’m a little girl at heart — and frankly, wherever Tinker Bell is, you’ll probably find me too.

From the moment I stepped through the gates at Kenwood House, it felt like entering another world. The lights were breathtaking — not just pretty, but immersive. Every corner felt intentional, thoughtful, and full of wonder. It wasn’t just a display; it was storytelling.

The replica of the Darling family home genuinely stopped me in my tracks. For a brief moment, I questioned reality — and judging by the expressions around me, I wasn’t alone. As the trail continued, Kenwood House itself became part of the magic, illuminated with projections that made everything feel dreamlike and nostalgic.

Then came Captain Hook — charismatic, dramatic, and fully committed to the chaos. Children were laughing, adults were grinning, and for a while, everyone seemed to forget the outside world. And just when I thought it must be ending… it wasn’t even halfway through.

The experience unfolded slowly, scene by scene, each one more enchanting than the last. You could feel how much care had gone into every detail. It was whimsical, immersive, and genuinely moving — the kind of magic that reminds you why imagination matters.

Why It Matters

Tickets have now sold out, but events like this are so much more than festive experiences. They raise vital funds, awareness, and support for children and families who need it most.

GOSH regularly hosts events and is always in need of funding, donations, and volunteers. Supporting them isn’t just charity — it’s hope. It’s easing the weight on families during unimaginable times. It’s giving sick children moments of joy, comfort, and care when they need it most.

That night in Neverland wasn’t just magical because of the lights or the story — it was magical because it stood for something bigger. Because somewhere, a child is being helped, healed, and held by the same place that once did that for me.

And that kind of magic?That’s real. ✨

Great Ormond Street Hospital – Neverland at Kenwood House

Great Ormond Street Hospital – Neverland at Kenwood House

Great Ormond Street Hospital – Neverland at Kenwood House

Great Ormond Street Hospital – Neverland at Kenwood House

Great Ormond Street Hospital – Neverland at Kenwood House