Hamleys reveals its 15 best Christmas toys for stress-free gifting – all under £100

Among the world’s oldest toy retailers, Hamleys began life as Noah’s Ark in 1760, selling tin soldiers, wooden horses, and rag dolls. Dubbed the “joy emporium” in the Victorian era, its iconic Regent Street flagship store remains the ultimate Christmas Day out for children (and adults for a nostalgia kick).

A browse through its seven floors delivers endless gifting inspiration – perhaps too much. To help whittle down your shopping experience, Hamleys has unveiled its annual “Festive 15”, from imaginative playsets to collectable characters and big-ticket presents.

If you’re hoping to get ahead of the festive shopping rush, now is the time to start thinking about what's going under the tree. Hamley’s handpicked collection of toys designed to capture children's imaginations has something for every child, whether they're animal lovers, budding builders, aspiring performers or fans of their favourite screen characters.

Highlights include an interactive Peppa Pig toy that learns to pedal, a transforming remote-controlled sports car, a giant prehistoric shark that hatches from an egg and a magical remote-controlled unicorn. There are also creative playsets, collectable figures and family games to keep everyone entertained long after the presents have been unwrapped.

With prices starting at just £9.99, the selection spans affordable stocking fillers through to more extravagant gifts for children who have their hearts set on something special. While some have already launched, other toys are coming soon and worth adding to your wishlist. Here’s everything you need to know.

Hamleys' best Christmas toys for 2026

Ready, Pedal, Go Peppa Interactive Toy

Hamley's

A brilliant choice for little Peppa Pig fans, this interactive toy brings the much-loved character to life on two wheels. Children can help Peppa get ready for her cycling adventures by popping on her helmet and attaching the push stick to guide her along. Once she's found her confidence, remove the stick and watch her pedal independently. With more than 70 sounds and phrases, plus decorative stickers to personalise her bike, there's plenty to keep little ones entertained.

Age: 3+

Hamleys' Movers and Shakers collection

Hamleys

For children who love their cuddly companions, Hamleys' Movers and Shakers collection is a charming choice. These interactive soft toys come in four adorable designs: a West Highland Terrier, Golden Retriever, Husky and black and white cat. With playful features and plenty of character, they're ideal for little ones who want a furry friend to take on all their adventures.

Age: 18 months+

ScorpiX RC Transforming Car

Hamleys

Why settle for an ordinary remote-controlled car when you can have one that transforms into a scorpion? The ScorpiX is a particularly exciting pick for children who love action-packed toys. Featuring LED headlights and taillights, the vehicle can switch between sports car and scorpion modes at the touch of a button. It also releases smoke effects and has a remote-control range of up to 25 metres.

Magic 3D Track Set

Hamleys

A toy that combines creative construction with plenty of racing excitement, the Magic 3D Track Set offers 171 pieces to build and customise. Little engineers can experiment with different track layouts and combinations before sending the USB-rechargeable train around their creations. With colourful track cubes and traffic accessories included, it's a lovely option for children who enjoy building, problem-solving and hands-on play.

Dr Doom Avengers Action Figure

Hamleys

Marvel fans will be pleased to find this impressive Doctor Doom figure among Hamleys' festive picks. Standing at 15cm tall, the collectable is inspired by the character's appearance in Avengers: Doomsday and features detailed design work alongside more than 20 points of articulation. Whether it's destined for imaginative superhero battles or a growing Marvel collection, this is a great gift for young fans of the franchise.

Age: 4+

The Big Squij Range

Hamleys

Sensory toys continue to be a popular choice, and the Big Squij collection offers plenty of squishy fun. These ultra-soft, slow-rising toys come in a selection of playful designs, including a Corgi Butt, duck, croissant, watermelon and heart-shaped characters. At £9.99 each, they're an affordable little treat for Christmas stockings, party bags or children who love collecting quirky characters.

Age: 3+

Barbie in the Nutcracker Doll Collection

Barbie

Bringing a little festive magic to the classic Barbie collection, this Nutcracker-inspired doll is a lovely present for children who enjoy imaginative storytelling and dressing up. Inspired by the much-loved ballet, Clara arrives in a shimmering tutu and glittering tiara, complete with adjustable ballet shoes that allow her to pose en pointe. It's a particularly sweet gift for little dancers and Barbie collectors alike.

Age: 4+

Primal Hatch Megalodon

Hamleys

One of the more dramatic toys in this year's collection, Primal Hatch Megalodon promises a prehistoric surprise. Children place the oversized egg into its tank, add water and watch as the liquid bubbles and changes colour before a giant Megalodon bursts through its shell. Measuring an impressive 40.6cm, the shark features glowing eyes, snapping jaws, lights and sound effects. Best of all, the experience can be reset for another round of hatching fun.

Age: 5+

Numberblocks Sing and Record Music Player

NumberBlocks

Combining music with early learning, this Numberblocks music player is a clever choice for younger children. Inspired by the popular CBeebies series, it features 15 sounds and songs, including the familiar theme tune, alongside five character buttons that introduce counting, colours and shapes. There's also a built-in microphone that lets children record up to 90 seconds of their own singing and play it back. A fun way to encourage little performers while sneaking in some learning.

Age: 3+

Play-Doh Stamp and Spin Pizza Playset

Hamleys

Little chefs can get creative in the kitchen with this Play-Doh pizza-making set. The playset features a fun stamp-and-spin oven that helps children create their own pretend pizza bases, ready to decorate with more than 25 different toppings. Five tubs of modelling dough and eight handy tools are included, giving children everything they need to roll, shape, slice and serve their creations. It's a brilliant option for imaginative roleplay and creative afternoons at home.

Age: 4+

Hatsune Miku T-Most PVC Figure

Hamleys

For older fans of anime, gaming and Japanese pop culture, the Hatsune Miku T-Most figure makes a distinctive addition to any collection. The virtual music superstar is recreated in her signature look and presented on a decorative heart-shaped base. Whether displayed on a bedroom shelf or added to an existing collection, it's a thoughtful gift for fans of the iconic Vocaloid character.

Age: 14+

Hamleys Wooden Taxi

Hamleys

A timeless toy with a distinctly London feel, the Hamleys Wooden Taxi is a lovely alternative to the latest electronic gadgets. Beautifully crafted with a classic design, it's made for little hands to push, pull and steer through imaginative adventures. It's also a charming keepsake for families who want to give younger children something a little more traditional this Christmas.

Age: 12 months+

Thunder Unicorn

Hamleys

For children who believe there's no such thing as too much magic, the Thunder Unicorn is sure to make an impression. This remote-controlled creature can strut, gallop and light up, bringing a little fantasy to playtime. With its magical effects and interactive movements, it's a dream gift for young unicorn enthusiasts and children who love toys with plenty of personality.

LEGO Marvel Doctor Doom Bust

Lego

The kidult gifting trend shows no signs of slowing down, and this LEGO Marvel Doctor Doom Bust is a particularly good choice for older builders and superhero enthusiasts. Inspired by the Avengers: Doomsday villain, the detailed display model features a metallic-finish hood and cape, movable jaw and neck joints, and a bonus Doctor Doom minifigure. Finished with a nameplated display stand, it's the sort of build that deserves pride of place on a shelf rather than being packed away after Christmas.

Age: 18+

Articulate: Under Pressure Game

Hamleys

Articulate: Under Pressure brings a fresh twist to the much-loved family party game. Players must describe words and phrases while their teammates race to guess the answers before the buzzer sounds. With three different playing modes and a timer to keep everyone on their toes, it's a brilliant choice for family gatherings, Boxing Day entertainment and competitive game nights.