The best toy shops in London

Hamleys is the oldest toy shop in the world and its flagship Regent Street store serves up seven floors of serious fun. Everything a child might want is under one roof, from toys and books for the very youngest children to dolls, puzzles and games, action toys, and crafts.

London's Disney Store is a captivating destination that whisks customers away into the whimsical realm of Disney and its many franchises. The lively store is packed with an extensive selection of Disney-themed products, ranging from unique toys and apparel to collectables from popular Disney series. The store features engaging interactive exhibits, statues of iconic Disney characters in full size, and decor inspired by Disney themes.

Check out Benjamin Pollock's Toyshop if you're in Covent Garden - it's been selling toys for more than 100 years. This is the destination for traditional toys that help kids to tell stories. Shoppers can expect shadow boxes, toy theatres, and puppets. There's friendly and knowledgeable service plus lots to inspire imaginative kids.

Islington store After Noah is a family-run business specialising in furniture and interiors as well as toys, games, and books for kids. If your child loves soft toys then a visit here is a real treat – there’s a whole section dedicated to teddy bears and other soft and cuddly friends.

Molly Meg stocks a wide variety of items especially for children, including kids’ furniture and decor, clothes for boys and girls, plus a selection of toys, games, and gifts. There’s a varied choice ranging from toys for babies and toddlers, crafts and activities, outdoor toys, and fun stuff for dressing up.

Kids with pocket money to spend will love Just Williams. This shop has exciting toys at every price point so they can still get something fun on a small budget. It's a bold and colourful space with something for every age group, ranging from toys for babies to arts and crafts activities.

Niddle Noddle in Crouch End is a popular boutique for kids. It’s an independent store that sells new and vintage clothing, books, and toys for children. Many of the items sold here are handmade and limited edition. This is a great shopping destination for special gifts for style-conscious kids.

Toy collectors should check out London Toy Shop in Enfield. This well-established shop deals in vintage toys, comics, trading cards, and autographs, and will buy retro toys from you too. The store hosts special events like retro toy fairs - browse in here and discover a reminder of your childhood.

The Harry Potter Shop at Platform 9¾ is a must-visit shopping haven in London for avid Harry Potter enthusiasts. Strategically located next to the "actual" Platform 9¾, this store offers an extensive range of memorabilia to satisfy every fan's desires. The shop features everything from the confectioneries mentioned in the novels to a diverse selection of toys and games, along with a variety of apparel for both children and adults.

Don't miss Chalkboard if you're looking for educational toys that support children's development. The welcoming and colourful store sells toys and games to target a variety of needs. From early years development to growing logic, maths, or English language skills, there are plenty of toys here to help kids learn through play.

QT Toys & Games opened in 1983 and sells a broad range of toys, games, and kids' activities. There are small toys that are perfect for spending pocket money on. You'll also find a wide range of other items to keep kids occupied like dolls, dressing-up costumes, and educational books and games.

The Lego Store is heaven for fans of the famous tiny bricks, especially the Leicester Square location - it's the largest Lego store in the world. These shops stock a huge range of Lego pieces and collections, plus other activities like making your own mini-figure, demonstration tables, and mosaic-making workshops.

Shop for toys, gifts, and party supplies at Cachao Toys in Muswell Hill. You'll find a big choice of toys for every age range, from bath toys to board games, toy instruments, and stuff for playing outdoors like boomerangs. There's an an extensive range of party supplies and helium celebration balloons too.

Snap Dragon sells toys, games, novelties, and gifts, with products aimed at adults as well as children - why should kids have all the fun? This bustling shop gets new stock in regularly and has a varied product range. Staff can help with suggestions if you're struggling to find the perfect gift.

Charitable initiative The Toy Project recycles unwanted toys by donating them to children in the UK and globally. They also fund toy and book libraries for local kids. At the shop in North London you can buy affordable secondhand toys and books that are in great condition, and support a charitable cause.

Based in Portobello Road Market, Andy Morant Toys is a dealer for classic toy soldiers and similar collectibles. Everything sold here is suitable for children but is just as popular with adult collectors. There are lead figurines dating back to the 19th century, as well as more recent die-cast pieces.

Starting as a family-run business in the 1980s, Kids Stuff is a traditional toy shop with items from the most popular brands. There are toys here to entertain a broad range of kids - whether they like playing with dolls, running around outside, or arts and crafts activities, there's something for them here.

In East London there's The Toybox, a vibrant destination if you're shopping for children. In-store there's a varied choice of toys that'll keep kids entertained. Products range from arts and crafts projects and construction toys to cuddly toys and dolls. The shop also stocks booties that are a great first birthday gift.

Located in Portobello Road, London Tree House sells a broad range of toys, games, and accessories for children. There's lots of variety, from war games to arts and crafts or soft toys. You'll also find other products for kids like bags and umbrellas, drinks bottles, and tableware made for small hands.

Visit the toy kingdom at Harrods for immersive and luxurious shopping. Areas are centred around types of toys so for kids who know what they want it’s a fun place to explore all the options. If you’re splashing out on a truly special gift for a child, this place is worth visiting.

If you're shopping for a child's birthday you should check out Happy Returns. This shop stocks a large selection of toys and activities, including science and art projects that help kids learn. There's also a full range of greetings cards, wrapping paper, and stickers, plus party favours if you're the host.

Paddington Bear fans can buy toys, clothes, and souvenirs at the Paddington Bear Shop, located in Paddington Station. You'll find toys, books, gifts, and clothing for babies, children, and adults too, plus special seasonal items. It's a great place to grab a last-minute birthday gift before you hop on the train.

The Toy Park in North London sells a broad selection of toys and games, plus it has exciting displays to keep kids engaged - think wooden boats filled with cuddly toy passengers. Products suitable for every age group are available here and you can expect friendly and knowledgeable customer service.

For lively shopping designed with both kids and adults in mind, visit Pingo Pongo in Chelsea. This place stocks traditional toys that help kids learn as they play like timeless wooden toys, puzzles, dressing-up outfits, and art projects. A variety of fun party supplies are sold here as well.

Gametoy in Stamford Hill sells a huge range of toys, games, puzzles, and gifts for children of all ages. This is a colourful local business with shelves stacked high with exciting options, from cuddly toys and dolls to brainteasing puzzles. Whatever your kids enjoy, there's something to amuse them here.

Specialist toy shop Puppet Planet sells puppets for both children and adults. Stock ranges from vintage puppets from throughout the world to contemporary designs. At the shop kids can watch a traditional Punch and Judy show, stage their own show at the in-store theatre, and have their birthday party here.

Located in Dulwich, The Art Stationers and Green's Village Toyshop has been in place since 1947. The shop specialises in a broad range of toys and games for kids of all ages, and also offers a comprehensive range of art and craft materials. That includes student quality products and art materials especially for kids. The exciting window display of toys is sure to catch their eye.