To put it nicely... it's a CLUSTER F in there! Actually... everywhere! Sis and I decided to check it out to get the little monster something... but it got us headaches instead. It was sensory OVERLOAD. Thus... my only advice... have a sense of what you want to get and go there directly or find it ASAP. Save yourself ... save your sanity... save your $ as well. So for all you folks wanting to visit this place... may the force be with you... for you will need it! read more

Hamleys is named after William Hamley, who founded a toy shop called "Noah's Ark" at in London in 1760. The founding store location has changed over the many years and there's been various global expansions of the brand that have had mixed success. Hamleys (no apostrophe) also holds a Royal Warrant as a "Toy and Sports" Merchant. Hamleys is one of the world's largest toy shops. I have been to all 7 floors of their flagship store on Regent Street and a much smaller shop at Heathrow. It's kind of a London tourist attraction by itself and is a good place to deal with the question that most Parents get when they return from a business trip - Did you get me anything? And believe me, if you can't find a "cool toy" here, the Kid (or the Dad) probably didn't need one anyway. read more

So much fun! I actually didn't intend to run into this place but when I saw it, I had to go in and check it out! Once I stepped foot inside the entrance, Immediately I see a sales rep on a large circular pedestal throwing a Nerf boomerang! The greeter let me know that there are 5 floors and to check them all out! Which, indeed I did! There were so many things to see and I loved the big displays of various famous characters I grew up with. I love that the employees play with many of the toys, but also encourage visitors to play with them as well! For adults, this will definitely bring out the big kid in you! Cheers! read more

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Neat store - absolutely HUGE. Hubs and I wandered in here after spending a little time on Regent St shopping. We enjoyed the different levels and all the neat items we found inside from some Superman, Hello Kitty, Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings memorabilia. There is a sweet shop on the top floor that has shakes, cupcakes, etc. They have staff on all the levels selling little gadget items that are pretty cute but are really gimmicky. We saw some neat Star Wars stuff, lego stuff, I mean really, they probably have every kind of toy known to man in here. It was 5 levels and really packed full of items. Kids paradise and really crowded and loud. Glad we looked inside but we didn't buy anything and left after browsing each level pretty quickly. read more

Aside from Disneyland, Hamleys is the most magical place on earth! Even though I'm not below the age of thirteen, a visit to Hamleys is one of the most wonderful ways bring out the kid I truly am at heart! Hamleys is spread across three levels. There are rows and rows of plush stuffed animals, a candy place on the second floor and endless games available to keep you or your child entertained for hours and hours. During the Christmas season they have specials on toys such as buy two get one free. The staff are upbeat, loud and ready to help out wherever or however they can! read more

Hamleys - Toy Stores Near Me - London, XGL

The prices are not the best, but this is the best toy store I've been to in the world. Been coming for 30+ years and finally got to bring my daughter along for her first trip. Had a great time wandering and picked up a few items. You can often find the same items on line for a better deal, but the experience is amazing. Even without kids! read more

Hamleys - Toy Stores Near Me - London, XGL

What's not to love about Hamley's? For me, it's only the price. Hamley's lives up to its name-biggest toy store in the world. Each level provides different aspects for the developing child and me a not ready to be adult. The staff are constantly everywhere, demonstrating the toys, dressed up in funny outfits, being loud trying to engage your pursestrings. The decor changes with the season, makes you giddy upon entry. There's a restaurant at the top, along with a level of movie replica memorabilia. (My favourite) There's also a set of stairs decked out in Chronicles of Narnia decorations and some movie props. It's a nice break from the crowded escalators, and believe me Hamley's is constantly full of children running around hyped up from the colours and playthings at their fingertips. It's a must stop if you've never been before, but there aren't many things to buy without spending a good sized sum. Sometimes it's nice to walk around and remember those joys of picking out that beloved toy when you were young. read more

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Hamleys is probably best enjoyed by two groups of people - kids and anyone who's had a childhood they don't mind being reminded of once in a while. Admittedly things have changed quite a bit since the 80's and my infancy but essentially the spirit of the toy shop - its tribute to imagination and playtime - remains a potent force. This place is huge, there are rows and rows of toys and games for all ages and throughout the shop there are staff doing demonstrations and keeping the little ones excited enough to maintain their best parental pressure throughout. Hence the reason why most parents might not have the best time ever at Hamleys - still it's worth it just to see the look on their little faces right? read more

Hamleys - Toy Stores Near Me - London, XGL

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This is a huge toy shop. My husband and I went crazy on this place. There are many many stuff animals. We bought the first teddy bear for my future baby. read more

Oh dear God, why would you want to do this to yourself? Once upon a time, this really was a very good toy shop- but that was before this whole interweb thing. True, there's little or no competition in central London, but that's also because you can buy anything there somewhere else for less money, unless you really want one of their branded bears or something ( in which case you are doubtless a foolish rube). Overpriced, overstuffed ( too much floor space given over to things no-one looks at, like expensive die-cast cars and planes)- a good place to watch stressed provincial parents get parted from their cash, in penance for the gross mid-step of bringing their offspring into this overheated hellhole. Oh, and the lifts are ridiculously slow, which one has to suspect is a deliberate ploy to keep the punters in proximity to merchandise. read more

Huge cool toy store. The building has 5 embroidery machines with different topics. There is something for everyone. The staff is very friendly and shows in detail how the toy works. You can try many toys. read more

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Hamleys is a little piece of Heaven. Well, a big piece of Heaven. I'm not sure I'll actually ever get over toy stores, and this one really does take the cake. Jam packed with all kinds of toys, Hamleys is a London institution. And you're allowed to play with everything. Staff did not get snooty with me when I thought it would be humorous to turn on a whole bunch of Tickle-Me-Elmo's. Yes, I should know better but I couldn't resist. Head down here to do your Christmas shopping for any little ones, and maybe even get a little something for yourself! It gets super-busy on weekends though, so make it in on a weekday if you can! read more

Hamleys - Toy Stores Near Me - London, XGL

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Super fun toy store to check out. So many things to look at on many levels. There were employees engaging customers for toy demos and they were super friendly. The basement level had a huge Harry Potter selection with cute HP related decorations. I bought a few Hamleys "exclusive" items. The prices are a bit high, especially with the USD conversion. read more

This place would be a good stop just to have some fun with toys and check things out. The staff are so lively and entertaining. There are so many booths to test out the toys - 5 stories of joy once you step in here. If Disneyland wasn't already the happiest place on the earth then this would be it. Now would I actually buy anything from here? No. and I hope if you have children they don't sucker you into buying a ton of toys here as well. A quick amazon / google search and you can already find the item they're selling for way cheaper. read more

Hamleys - She made a fish out of these little blow up balloons. o3o - Toy Stores Near Me - London, XGL

**shudders** I had to enter Hamleys this weekend in the middle of the Christmas rush...I would NOT recommend heading into this madness unless you absolutely have to!! There were staff at all the doors to keep the crowds moving...and I had to shuffle my way around the shop as there wasn't enough space to walk with actual steps. The bloke on the door was completely useless, so I had to ask three members of staff before they could point me to the second floor for the toddler toys! Once I found the perfect playmobile toy for my nephew, it took around thirty minutes to pay for it...and then another ten to exit the shop. Eep! I'd give it one star for stress levels, but 4 or 5 stars for contents! I will do my best to avoid this nightmare, and buy things earlier next Christmas!! Bah humbug! read more

Since the demise of FAO Schwartz in San Francisco, it has been difficult to find a really great toy store. So on a recent visit to London, I was delighted to be directed to Hamleys - it is everything a parent (or kid) could ever want, except that is a 10-hour plane ride from my home! Seriously this is an amazing store, with more helpful staff than you will generally find at any retailer, and a selection that can't be beat. If you are looking for gifts to bring back to your children, it is worth a stop, particularly if you are shopping on Oxford Street. read more

The greatest toy store ever!!! We only bought a few items because it is a tiny bit pricey. However, the experience alone is worth the visit. They showcase so many toys and allow you to handle many of the displays. They also have an entire area downstairs dedicated to Star Wars. I believe the third floor had a brilliant selection of Harry Potter items which my daughter was thrilled about. My oldest children got their first Build-A-Bears here back in 2003 and it was one of their favorite memories. This section of the store remains and it seems to have only gotten better. read more

It's sort of stuff kids dream. Floors and floors of toys. Walls of paddington bears. Toys for young and old. Impressive puzzles collection. read more

Our most recent trips here were a serious disappointment. One expensive toy was broken when we opened it, the staff was unhelpful, and out of dozens of shops we went to over two weeks in England, this was the only one that silently converted the currency before charging our card (which gives the merchant a commission). read more

I have been to this store several times in my life, but this time the first time being a father. I left the Hamley's with a mixed feeling. Obviously, it is great to have a dedicated toy store of that sheer size. The choice of products is really really good, I was overwhelmed by the Lego section downstairs. I also did not know that there is so much stuff available for girls... For your kids, you will find more distractions that you can think of. There is a coffee shop where you could also have a muffin, hot dog or burger at the top level. However, I think they are overdoing it a bit. You can even have your picture taken as a souvenir and it is clearly just a shop. The sales guys are trying a little too hard to sell you the latest in gadgets as opposed to "good" toys to my taste. Particularly annoying I find the abundance of cheap chinese soft toys making sounds that will welcome you at the ground floor. (and are really annoying at the store at Heathrow Airport). I found most items that are branded with their own "Hamley's" label to be of very poor quality. Stick to the real brands and you may even find the occasional deal. read more

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We came here on our Easter London Adventure on account of Steve has a Star Wars Lego addiction and thought we might find something he hasn't yet got. We did, but it was £40 more than in Argos, so we didn't buy it here. What we did do was take photos of the massive Lego Buzz Lightyear and Indiana Jones and had a wander round the gadget-y bit in amazement that some people get paid to play with toys. Awesome. If you're going to make the trek out to Harrods, you ought to head down Regent Street to here. It's an institution and your kids will love it. Big kids too. read more

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Well what can I say that's different from all these reviews above? This is an exceptional place for children and the children-at-heart. They bring the wonder, joy, and the magic of toys and finding a new and/or classic toy, the perfect gift for everyone. Note that this place is a high tourist attraction and is packed with people. So hold onto your minor charges and valuables. And don't expect to leave without spending at least one of your paychecks here. read more

I found Hamlet's fun for little kids. But for someone pro like me with toys. I found most of the toys overpriced. I recommend bringing kids over here to play and buy your stuff from Amazon uk read more

This was a surprise addition to our trip orchestrated by my best friend. The wonderful thing about not having kids is that I was able to enjoy 5 floors of toys for my own personal indulgence. I took a lot of selfies and played with a lot of toys. Lots of stage doing demos and no shortage of assistance. It took me a while to get over being overwhelmed. It was a cultural fascination for me to see what characters and toys are actually popular in the U.K. There's a candy store inside. All was good until my bestie and I got to the cash register and had a not so great experience by the heavy set cashier on the ground floor in a German accent who was rude to us. We politely asked if there was any paper or anything they could offer to reasonably wrap a semi breakable item. It was met with a rude "no" response. We paid for our candy and we were handed $5 in coins. I politely asked if I could have a single 5 pound note as it would've been easier to handle as a tourist and she snapped at us that she couldn't open the til unless we bought something else. Frustrated by her attitude I just wanted a refund. She made us go a floor down to customer service since she could not authorize a refund. Up until that point it was a positive experience but walked away from spending 12 pounds. They do good business so clearly my 12 pounds didn't matter to them otherwise they wouldn't have someone so rude currently working in a children's and tourist driven department store. read more

I think that I do have a blimey fixation with Toy Stores, in big cities. FAO. Schwarz and Toys R Us in NYC and Hamleys in London. Hamleys is one of the world's largest Toy Shops and one of the oldest, built in 1881. Like FAO Schwarz the Hamley stores have had their troubles through the years, but have managed to survive and become an icon and a landmark. Each floor at Hamleys is specific to one category. The first floor holds games, a candy shop and a Build a Bear Workshop. The second floor holds toys for very young children, the third for Girls and the fourth for Hobbies and the Fifth for boys. The Basement holds Lego's and collectibles. Very organized and well staffed and like FAO S. they do encourage youngsters to interact with the demonstrations. On the expensive side. read more

Sometimes you've just gotta bribe a two year old. And if you're in London, that means going to Hamley's. I was visiting family in London, and needed some ammunition to convince my nephew to be nicer to a family member, and that means I had to bring him a toy truck. This kid drives a hard bargain. I used my trusty Yelp app to find a toy store in London, and came across Hamley's, and I am so glad that I did! First of all, this store is GIANT! Something like 30 floors of every type of toy you could imagine, with collectables thrown into the mix for good measure. From the moment I walked in, I felt like I was the kid myself. I was smiling when I walked in, but after browsing the entire ground floor of stuffed animals and puppets, I was positively giddy. The smiles that Hamley's provides are addictive, yo. There is staff EVERYWHERE, all playing with toys and creating a festive mood. There are gorgeous displays, plenty of stations where you can test out featured toys, and oodles of check-out lanes, so that you don't have to wait in a giant line. The selection is giant, and I was able to find exactly what I needed, which in this case was a toy ambulance with authentic siren noises. The prices are reasonable, when you consider that the Dollar sucks against the Pound, and you're in the center of London. Maybe I was on a "beginning of Christmas season" high, but I just loved my experience at Hamley's, and I look forward to going back. read more

Hamleys is the most fun when you have something to buy. I 've been here before as a tourist and enjoyed my day, taking photos with fluffy things, buying fluffy things, and just enjoying the atmosphere in general. But that was nothing compared to how much fun I had when I actually had some gifts to buy! Looking at everything with "Should this come home with me" in my mind, it took on a new magic. Magic pens that change color or could be erased, hmm which one is better? I decided that depends on if you are the parents who have to clean it off the walls. Which spawns a new question, should I be a good aunt with the eraseable markers or a cool aunt with the colour-changing ones....:) What about the gum that turns your mouth blue? Could I get them to offer it to their unsuspecting parents....;) Toy car or....anti-gravity toy car that drives up walls and ON THE CEILING? That shouldn't even be a question. So. Cool. I had to get that as a gift just so I can see it being used at home! I know they sell this at other places, and I bet it's cheaper, so maybe it would be better to do a little research. It was still really fun to buy it there though. Hamleys had endless floors of cool toys for older children. I have to say, as I was shopping I was really wishing some of the kids I was buying toys for were older so I could get them the cooler gifts! For the one year old there really wasn't anything amazing, so I went for the fluffiest, cutest bear I could find and I am happy with it. If you need something else though for a young child, I'd go somewhere else. It's really fun just to watch the toy demonstrations, which are usually for the artistic toys or flying toys. Some of the Hamleys toys I find myself too interested in haha, such as Squiddy, the bathtime squid who swims from one end of the bath, turns, and swims back again. It's a little mesmerizing to watch him go.The staff here is really friendly, helpful, and seem to really enjoy working there. Overall, I would say it is definitely expensive, but at least it is quite a fun experience and even if you don't shop here regularly for your toy needs, you should come at least once and spend a few hours wandering around. read more

Besides the Harrods carrier bag, I think the Hamleys bag is the most recognisable in London and most likely to evoke a sense of excitement and perhaps a little envy from other people. Hamleys does trade a bit on its reputation among UK shoppers as 'the largest toy store in the world' though I wonder if that's still true these days. To be fair, it is very good at creating an air of wonder and magic with its large, inventive window displays and lots of staff wandering round the shop, noisily demonstrating the latest must-have toy. Static toys in boxes boring. Flying, beeping toys exciting! Full marks to the marketing department. As a big kid, I enjoy a browse through here even today but I can also see its flaws. There is very little in the shop these days which is exclusive and you can see and buy the same stuff at other retailers or on the internet and probably cheaper as well. The shop is tightly packed and the queues can be horrendous - at peak times, you may have to queue to get into the shop. Trying to be all things to all ages, the range of goods like computer games is limited. However, no kid's childhood would be complete without memories of a visit to the magical land of Hamleys. So make their dream come true. read more

Have you been to the best toy store in the world??? Well I've been here in 99 and returned here and 09. I have to say it still brings a twinkle to my eye. It's probably as close to what I imagine Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium may be. Every floor of the restaurant having it's own theme. ON the top floor they even have all the toys that you see in sky mall magazines. What makes this store the most memorable for me is the magic show. On the bottom floor floor workers are able to do magic card trips that just facinates you. I was just really courious that I had to buy the cards to try to learn the magic tricks. So... if you have some time to burn... check out Hamley's. It'll bring out the kid in you. read more

With her hard-earned money burning a hole in her wallet, my now 11-year-old daughter finally got her wish as she entered Hamleys this November. It was crazy crowded that first Saturday evening, but we went back during the week and had the place nearly to ourselves. It remains a kid paradise. Floor upon floor of stuffed animals, board games, crafts, Barbie stuff, electronics, toddler toys, puzzles, and on and on and on. People are outside blowing bubbles on you as you pass. People are inside demonstrating toys and crafts and flying things and magic tricks. If you don't have a child, grab one and go anyway. Trust me, it's worth it. read more

Go. That is All. You will not be disappointed. At Christmas, kids can get there photos with Santa. There is a cafe at the top of the store that offers lunch items, but offers a good cream tea for a cheap price. You are allowed to play in the store. I cannot stress that enough. The staff plays with you. Each floor generally has a theme...with the first floor having tons of stuffed animals. read more

This is the most amazing toy store I have ever seen in my life! Seven floors of magical and fun toys. If Steve Jobs had decided to change the world by making toys instead of computers, there would now be a HAMLEYS toy store in major cities around the world. If Disney created a "Toy Store Land" in Orlando it would be Hamleys in London. When Prince William and Kate have a baby and want to shop for toys, I know they are going to Hamleys. Actually, we found this world famous store by accident. We had just visited the London Apple Store and took a walk down the street, spotted Hamleys, walked in and spent the next 3.5 hours looking at everything. Stuffed animals. Of course. Preschool toys Educational and interactive toys Helicopters, Airplanes and other amazing flying objects Arts and Crafts, drawing painting, kits and projects Magic tricks, magic supplies, crystal balls Harry Potter wands, broom sticks, capes and maps in a huge special section Dolls, fancy dolls, classic dolls and collectible dolls, doll houses Legos, building systems, trucks, tractors and cranes Ride on toys, scooters Bubble makers, silly toys Play houses Sports games, balls, throwing games, catching games Plus lots of hands on demos plus demonstrators on each floor. Everyone was helpful and clearly happy to be working there. After complete, close up and personal demonstrations we bought a magic set with card tricks including a hidden coin trick and about 20 other tricks in one package. Close up magic is the most amazing thing to watch. We also bought a finger nail, toe nail decoration kit with lifetime refills for my daughter. Again this was after a complete personal demonstration. They spent a lot of time with us doing the demonstrations. By the time we got to the top floor we were ready for lunch and a break at their cafe. Then we worked our way back down the entire seven floors looking at what we had missed. They do birthday parties in the store. There are other locations in Dublin and Glascow. Oxford Circus is the closest Tube Station read more

The Good: 6 floors of toys...for ALL ages Paddington Bears, Double Magic Pens, Glitter Tattoos/Body Art, Harry Potters Wand and cars that can race up the walls. The Bad: Steiff bears start at £30 The Ugly: Really crowded on a Wednesday afternoon. read more

I always seem to fit a visit into Hamleys before Christmas and this year was no exception, however it was before the Christmas lights on Regents Street were turned on for once, unfortunately. I always remember coming here as a kid and my adult visits take me back - I'm glad a few of those childhood sections are still in the store just as the large model train and air fix kits sections. Prices are for central London, but even then I don't think they're crazily outrageous. To be honest I have no idea what the current Teenage Mutant Hero Turtles are priced at anyway, so it might have been perfectly normal. I did like the addition of the film memorabilia section, and that if you get right to the top there's a milkshake bar. read more

Toy heaven!!! I love this place! When I heard that one of the biggest toy stores in the world was in London, I knew that I had to stop by. It was so much fun just going floor by floor and watching all of the Hamleys employees do toy demonstrations. Seriously, they have the coolest jobs; they literally just play with the toys all day! My favorite part of the store was the movie merchandise section! They had a large collection of merchandise from films such as The Dark Knight, Lord of the Rings, Harry Potter, etc. I really loved the display of Harry Potter wands; they had a wand for almost every character in the book! Definitely coming back here when I'm back in London! 5 stars! read more

Wondering where to go for Christmas shopping? Give a kiss, touch the heart and build a bear. It's the Santa's workshop by Build a Bear in Hamleys - my favourite holiday season playing spot. Wandering in the Regent's Bear Park, I had deep hugs and soft squeezes to recreate my childhood dreams... You can also play the Lunar Rescue team , a toy car rotates 360 degrees, along side the traditional Legos or Jigsaw puzzles. The staff are so friendly on their red t-shirts and hold large shopping bags on their shoulders or necks are often playing along. Meanwhile, plenty of candies and chocolates to entertain your tongue. I was very intrigued by the Nail Jazz polish kit, which effectively allows one to paint beetles, flowers on our nails in minutes. On my way out of the store, the big sign "thanks for PLAYING" makes me feel so good spending hours there with the full house. 2010 is also Hamley's 250 anniversary. Let's celebrate together for this toy wonderland! read more

A big toys r us. I don't get why this is a tourist destination? There is little to nothing that is special to this location. There are no one of a kind things or shops within a store that sells something you can't get anywhere else. There is little in the way of demonstrations or much anything special. It was jammed packed crazy. Located just up from Piccadilly Circus it is a pure tourist trap. Crowded and it wa midday on a weekday. They did not have what I was looking for: European issue PEZ dispensers that you can't get in the US. This is in spite of having a floor of candy. I don't get that at all. If you have been to the Time Square NYC Toys R Us then you have seen this--but this is less. If you live on an island and can't get UPS to deliver from Amazon then maybe you can go here to get that special gift. But good luck getting any advice on what to buy. read more

Oh my goodness! Outside you are greeted by crazy characters and it only gets worse, in a good way, inside. They have loads of gadgets and toys and stuffed animals. My girlfriend was looking for some Thomas the Train items, real wood, but had a hard time finding any. Be sure to check where the toys were made, Asia you want to make sure you get the quality that you want from where ever. Just a FYI. Since she didn't buy Thomas products she did buy this "black board" that has rainbows behind it. A lady was demonstrating it and we were hooked. I even said we should play with it on the way back on the plane then give it to her two year old lol. Be on the look out for other demonstrations. They have them in each floor, and then choose what you like! The lines can get crazy so be on the look out when they are short. We lucked out on the line obviously. Definitely recommend to pop in because they do not have Hamely's in the states! read more

When I was a kid, Hamleys was my paradise. It was such a treat to come here. It's the pinnacle of toy shops. Even calling it a toy shop feels like an understatement. Now I'm all grown up with my own kids this place couldn't be more opposite. I dread comming here. It's five floors of kids in awe, dragging there parents around behind them. But that's what this place is all about, the kids. So I'm doing my best to review it from a kids point of view, which is why I've rated it 5 stars. read more

Hamley's is quite simply one of thee most outstanding toy stores in the world. Firstly, it is gargantuan in size, with numerous floors. It is crammed with toys for all ages. Whatever toy you are looking for, if you cannot find it anywhere else they will have it there. They make it their duty to have the latest toy fashions, and classics, that there will always be a demand for. The magicians and aides they have working the floor, showing you how to use the merchandise your kids are going to want to buy are a treat. Be warned around Christmas this place gets packed to the rafters. read more