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The Best Toys Shops in the UK which you need to visit in 2024
There’s something magical about looking around a toy shop. They’re places where children’s eyes shine with excitement as they hunt around looking for the perfect toy. While there are plenty to choose from in the UK, have you ever wondered which are the best toy shops? How about which is the biggest toy shop in the UK? If you have, then you’re sure to like what follows.
We’re going to be looking at the best toy shops UK. There will be more than one big toy shop, but we’ll also be looking at some of the smaller ones that have something a little different to offer. Here’s our look at the ones that we think come out on top.
Hamleys of London
Address: 188-196 Regent Street, London W1B BT
If you’re looking for the biggest toy shop in the UK, this is it, but does biggest mean best? Well, it depends on just what you’re looking for. Certainly, Hamleys of London is impressive. Having been in business for over 250 years, it definitely knows a thing or two about toys.
This big toy shop offers plenty to explore. There are seven floors that are brimming with a range of different toys. You’ll find that practically every type of toy is covered. There are traditional wooden ones along with bang-up-to-date virtual reality headsets being offered too.
While there is plenty of variety, something else that makes this one of the best toy shops is the luxury range. There are special gifts to choose from for both boys and girls, and many of these are exclusive to the shop.
Of course, the owners will be hoping that you make a purchase or two. However, the truth is that, as the biggest toy shop in the UK, you can actually just have fun exploring without spending a penny. You’ll find that you can keep the kids entertained for hours.
The Entertainer
Address: Across the UK
While not the biggest toy shop in the UK, The Entertainer is up there as one of the biggest chains. As one of the best toy shops UK, there are more than 130 stores around the country, and they all come with a host of goodies to be explored. Similar to Hamleys, The Entertainer also comes with products that are exclusive and can’t be found anywhere else.
What really makes The Entertainer one of the best toy shops is that it makes itself a destination. It’s not just about spending money and the company offer a variety of free in-store activities. This includes things such as special character appearances, game demos and art and crafts where kids can be hands-on.
You’ll find The Entertainer in a number of cities across the country, so there’s a very good chance that there’s one near you. While you may find one that you’d class as a big toy shop, there are also plenty that is on the smaller side. Regardless, they all carry a great range of toys and offer a great family experience.
Smyths Toys
Address: Throughout the UK
When looking at Best toy shops UK, Smyths is another of the major chains. It currently has over 200 stores and also has a strong online presence. Smyths stores come with an amazing range of toys and games, and you can sure of finding the newest releases, as well as the best sellers.
Just like The Entertainer, what makes Smyths one of the best toy shops is the fact that it offers free activities too. You can head to Smyths Toys and have your kids entertained by things such as face painting and craft sessions. At the weekends, there are also toy demonstrations and these are always great fun.
If you have some spare time one weekend and are looking to keep the kids happy, a visit to Smyths Toys could well be a solution. There’s plenty to see, plenty to get involved with and, what’s best, you don’t necessarily have to spend anything.
My Small World, Bath
Address: Southgate Shopping Centre 19-21 St Lawrence Street, Bath, BA1 1AN
Opening back in 2005, My Small World definitely deserves a mention when it comes to exploring the best toy shops. It’s an award-winning shop and, when you start to take a look, it’s easy to understand why. It’s a shop that is known for top quality toys as well as offering the very best in customer service. It also operates online so you can order without even leaving your house.
The shop has toys that cater for all ages. What we really like is the fact that there is also a range that is autism friendly.
This may be a long way from being the biggest toy shop in the UK, but that doesn’t mean that you don’t get a top experience when you visit. When you head here, you’ll find that everything is hands-on. You get to try before you buy and you’re sure to find something that the kids will love.
Little Citizens Boutique, County Down
Address: 120 High Street Holywood, BT18 9HW
Looking at the best toy shops UK means heading over the water into Northern Ireland. This is a toy shop that is more than just a little bit special. Rather than being filled with every type of toy under the sun, this is a shop that takes a very different approach. The toys that you’ll find have all been handpicked from around the world and there is a degree of exclusivity to what’s on offer.
It’s great to find a toy shop that is so different. When you visit, you’re not going to come across the typical games and toys that you’ll find in any old catalogue. It’s a joy to browse toys that have been specifically chosen and that have something different to offer.
The Disney Store, London
Address: 350-352 Oxford Street, London, W1C 1JH
The Disney Store is ranked as one of the best toy shops UK, and it probably needs little introduction. You’ll find Disney stores in the majority of big cities around the world and they all offer a range of Disney toys, DVDs and clothing.
If you’re looking for a big toy shop experience, The Disney Store can certainly offer you this. It is spread across three floors and has more Disney toys than you could ever know what to do with. Of course, if you’re not a Disney fan then this probably isn’t the toy shop for you, but if you’re obsessed with all things that this company creates, this is a place that you’ll fall in love with.
Crocodile Toy Shop, Cirencester
Address: 3 The Woolmarket, Cirencester, GL7 2PR
The Crocodile Toy Shop is another that deserves a mention when looking at the best toy shops. That’s because it’s one that again has something a little different to offer. You’ll find that there are favourites, such as Lego, to explore, as well as a great selection of traditional toys. However, there is more to explore here.
As you take a look around, you’ll also come across interactive areas. In these, you’ll find a whole range of toys that you simply won’t come across elsewhere. This means that you’ll always enjoy a trip to the Crocodile Toy Shop and you’ll always come across something new.
The Lego Store, London
Address: 3 Swiss Court, London, W1D 6AP
This is another big toy shop and it’s one where there’s something different as you enter. As you walk into the Lego Store, you’ll find yourself squaring up to an 8ft dinosaur. What makes this so special is that it’s made entirely from Lego. It’s certainly a spectacular site as you make your way in.
Once you make your way past the dinosaur, you’ll see why this is one of the best toy shops around. It’s a huge area that takes plenty of time to explore. You’ll come across a variety of interactive displays as you make your way around, and you’ll also see an astonishing selection of Lego sets to choose from.
It’s hard to find a child who isn’t a fan of Lego. That means that this toy shop is the perfect place for families everywhere.
Toy Kingdom Harrods, London
Address: Harrods Fourth Floor, 87-135 Brompton Road, London, SW1X 7XL
As one of the best toy shops UK, Toy Kingdom offers a truly magical experience for children of all ages. Up on the 4th floor of Harrods, it’s situated right in the centre of London, meaning that it has a great location too. If your children are fans of toys and games, you can be sure that they’ll be fans of what’s on offer here.
When it comes to some of the most popular toys, you’ll come across well-known names such as:
- Barbie
- Disney
- Peppa Pig
- Lego
- Paw Patrol
Alongside these popular toys, you’ll also find a great range of those that are exclusive to Toy Kingdom. This means that this toy shop is well worth a visit as you never quite know what you’ll come across.
Final Thoughts…
if you’re looking for a fun and engaging shopping experience, UK toy stores should be at the top of your list. With a wide range of toys and games available, these stores cater to all ages and interests.