Where Hamleys leads, toy lovers follow and this year’s top picks from the iconic retailer promise endless fun and education too.

The line-up, from £18, includes predicted best-seller, LOL Magic Flyers, a new innovative take on the ever-popular LOL doll, closely followed by perennial favourite Barbie.

For imaginative early years play there is Disney Winnie and Piglet’s Treehouse and a classic Hamley Bear with a Harry Potter twist, the perfect companion for wizard bedtimes. Twister Air also offers huge fun with a fresh, digital take on a popular family game, suitable for all age groups. 

For pre-teens Hamleys’ expert Buying Team have chosen the Barbie Fruit Crush series, tapping into the success of this year’s biggest blockbuster, while LOL Magic Flyers and the popular Beast Lab Beast Creator are easy to use with heaps of innovative interactive opportunities. 

Fans of Marvel have the chance to get their hands on the super soft and squishy TY Squish-A-Boos, featuring favourite heroes, and for traditional gift givers, Hamleys Wooden Bus is set to be a keepsake for years to come. 

Highlighting the selection’s diversity Victoria Kay, Hamleys head of buying, says: 

“We’ve closely observed the trends shaping the toy industry, including toys inspired by beloved on-screen characters and the continued Kidult trend. 

“Given the ongoing challenges, we recognize the importance of providing parents with a range of pricing options, allowing them the flexibility to plan and purchase thoughtfully.

“We have also diversified our toy selection to create an additional pull-out list of Top 3 toys that collector parents or Kidults would enjoy.”

Also pay Hamleys a visit, it could be the best time of all. “What’s not on the list, but is very much a coveted Christmas gift, is a day at Hamleys,” declares Victoria.

“ With our magical in-store experiences, Elfie selfies and a chance to meet your favourite characters offered complimentary to all visitors – a visit to Hamleys truly captures the warmth of the Christmas season and crafts memories that last for a lifetime.”