Ask most children (and many adults) what they want for Christmas and chances are toys will be top of the list.
London has a fantastic array of shops selling everything from retro board games and puppets to cool gadgets. Here are just some of the wonderful toy shops to be found across London – just make sure you allow enough time to play with everything...
Founded in 1760 as a small toyshop, Hamleys moved to its present location in Regent Street in 1881. Today it's London's most famous toyshop, its seven floors filled with every conceivable toy from all the popular brands. Even the nurseries and playrooms of the Queen and her children have been stocked from this extraordinary shop.
Benjamin Pollock's Toyshop was established in London's Hoxton back in the 1880s. The shop moved to Covent Garden in 1980 and today still sells the same paper toy theatres it always has. You can also find marionettes, glove puppets and other traditional toys with a theatrical theme.
Based in historic Greenwich, Compendia is a real treat for games enthusiasts. But you won't find any computer-generated characters on these shelves because Compendia specialises in toys that don't include the batteries. The shop is crammed with classic board games, puzzles, plus many hard-to-source or limited edition games.
Portobello Road toyshop Honeyjam takes its name from those of its founders; model Jasmin "Jam" Guinness and Honey Bowdrey. The shop sells quirky and traditional toys, with fair-trade and eco-friendly toys sharing shelf space with retro and vintage favourites.
International Magic is an Aladdin's Cave of a shop; small on the outside but full of amazing finds inside! Established in 1962, it is the place to go for card tricks and magicians' tools of the trade. The knowledgeable staff are on hand to help beginners make the right choice and the shop also runs courses for would-be conjurers.
The Modelzone store on High Holborn, one of a chain of toyshops around the UK, will appeal to anyone who likes a construction project. Its huge range of models includes everything from train sets and Scalextric for all the family to military models for the serious collector.
Playlounge's distinctive design-led range has something for every member of the family. With an emphasis on the artistic as well as playful aspect of toys, their product range is very selective and individual. Expect to find exquisitely illustrated books, quirky character toys and soft toys that are cuddly and cute – but ugly!
Puppets on strings, puppets on rods, and glove puppets from across the globe line the shelves in Puppet Planet. This magical store also has a small theatre so customers can put on a play and, if you're looking for a really unique gift, you can even commission a "lookalike" marionette.
QT Toys and Games has been trading on Northcote Road in Clapham since 1983 and over the years become a popular stop-off on this marvellous shopping street. As well as all the familiar and favourite brands, the shop stocks an extensive range of intricate Schleich plastic figures.
The Science Museum's fascinating gift shop is full of gadgets and gizmos to amaze, educate and entertain. With child-friendly titles like Why is Snot Green?, technical products such as the electronic weather station, plus prices that range from £1 to £250, there really is something for everyone.
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