London Shopping

Hamleys

#103 of 1425 things to do in London

#121 of 5557 shopping in Europe

3 reviews | Write a review

Good for: crowds, kids

Not good for: a 'magical toyshop experience'

  • Address
    • 188-196 Regent St W1
  • Transport
    • Oxford Circus
  • Website
  • Phone
    • 0870 333 2455
    • 7494 2000
  • Hours
    • 10am-8pm Mon-Sat, noon-6pm Sun

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Lonely Planet review for Hamleys

Reportedly the largest toy store in the world and certainly the most famous, Hamleys is a layer cake of playthings. Computer games are in the basement, the latest playground trends at ground level. Science kits are on the 1st floor, preschool toys on the 2nd, girls’ playthings on the 3rd and model cars on the 4th, while the whole confection is topped off with Lego world and its cafe on the 5th.

 

Traveller reviews for Hamleys (3)

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    Often crowded but still a joy

    rocketbabydoll recommends this,

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    Disappointing - too much packaged tat :-(

    gemex does not recommend this,

    We were so excited about taking our kids here, but it just isn't really anything special (at least for toys for under 10s, may be different for more specialised stuff). The ground floor is crowded and a bit tatty, not a good introduction. Lots of the Hamley's brand toys seemed overpriced and frankly not very good quality. Overall, very, very disappointing. We're seen lovely toy shops overseas (especially in Germany) and we expected this to be even better, but it really isn’t.

    Good for: crowds

    Not good for: a 'magical toyshop experience'

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    Six floors of Play Doh-sniffing heaven

    janeyo recommends this,

    If the pace and grit and glum faces of London are getting you down, therapy is free on Regent St. Just disappear into this multi-story toy store - all glittering displays and kind lighting and magical little toys. You'll forget your worries and return to easier times. Lose an afternoon eyeing up the Thunderbirds clocks, the airoplane kits and the avenue of Barbies. Knock yourself out sniffing the Play Doh, swishing the light sabres overhead and pitying the poor saps who'll get 'educational' toys for Christmas.

    Good for: kids

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