Top toy trend predictions for Christmas 2025 – and the cheaper alternatives

Each year, major retailers Amazon, Hamleys and John Lewis share their predictions for the top toys set to dominate stockings everywhere at Christmas. So far, John Lewis and Hamleys have revealed their lists - we’ll keep this page updated as more retailers announce theirs.

Below, we've listed products from the John Lewis and Hamleys selections – along with budget-friendly alternatives if you’re looking to save money.

Read on to discover this year's trendiest toys, plus our expert insights on what’s expected to top the charts.

Need more gift inspiration when buying for little ones? See the best Christmas gifts for kids

Jump to:

• John Lewis Top Christmas Toys for 2025
• Hamleys Festive 15 for 2025

John Lewis Top Christmas Toys for 2025

Mattel UNO Spin Game

Age range: 7+ years

UNO Spin adds a twist to the classic card game with its interactive spinner. Players still match cards by colour, number or action, but a spin card changes the game - triggering actions such as 'colour draw', 'swap hands', 'colour discard', or even a 'double spin'.

The set comes with 112 cards and a spinner.

Available from John Lewis (£16.99), or compare more prices below.

Are there cheaper alternatives?

If you can forgo the spinner, classic UNO and a few other sets are cheaper, including themed packs for kids.

• UNO Card Game – SQUIRREL_TEXT_50022218
• UNO Show 'em No Mercy Card Game – SQUIRREL_TEXT_50018200 
• UNO The Amazing Spider-Man Card Game – SQUIRREL_TEXT_50022219
  

Tired of snap and solitaire? Head to the best card games

Gui Gui Shimmer Deluxe Duo Pack

Age range: 6+ years

The Gui Gui Shimmer Deluxe Duo Pack is a slime-making set that allows users to create two iridescent slimes.

The kit includes materials and instructions for making slime in five steps, with added scents and shimmer effects.

Available from John Lewis (£19.99) or compare more prices below.

Are there cheaper alternatives?

You can buy a single pack of Gui Gui slime for around half the price, or there are cheaper putty and slime kits available.

• Gui Gui Beautify Your Slime Single Pack – SQUIRREL_TEXT_50022221 
• So Slime DIY Mix 'In Craft Set – SQUIRREL_TEXT_50022222
• Slimy Mixer Craft Set – SQUIRREL_TEXT_50022223 

Lego Minecraft The Creeper

Age range: 8+ years

Standing over 21cm tall, this buildable model features four movable legs and a posable head that tilts and turns. Open the detachable head to reveal a hidden interior with a classic Creeper and a TNT element inside.

Builders can also enhance the experience with the Lego Builder app, which lets you zoom, rotate in 3D and track progress step by step. This set doubles as a fun build and a striking display piece for Minecraft fans.

Available from John Lewis (£32) or compare more prices below.

Are there cheaper alternatives?

This option retails for around £30, but you can find smaller Minecraft Lego sets for less - even some under £10 - which make great stocking-fillers.

• Lego Minecraft The Nether Lava Battle – SQUIRREL_TEXT_50022225
• Lego Minecraft The Warden Encounter – SQUIRREL_TEXT_50022226
• Lego Minecraft The Baby Pig House – SQUIRREL_TEXT_50022227 

If you're looking for more Lego sets, head to our guide on the best Lego deals – we've found bargains on popular sets including Harry Potter, Star Wars, Marvel and more

Steiff Jimmy Christmas Teddy Bear, 30cm

Age range: 1+ months

Meet Jimmy Christmas, a cuddly plush companion with curious black eyes, a snuffly nose, and buttoned ears.

Weighted granulate bags in the paws and bottom keep him stable while sitting, and he comes dressed in a Christmas hat and tartan bow.

Available from John Lewis (£39.90) or compare more prices below.

Are there cheaper alternatives?

While cute, Jimmy Christmas is on the pricier side for a teddy bear. We've found similar-sized options for around half the price.

• Snuggle Buddies Friendship Teddy, 32cm – SQUIRREL_TEXT_50022254
• Jellycats Bartholomew Bear, 22cm – Available from Jellycat (£25)
• Aurora World Archie Bear Plush Soft Toy, 25cm – Available from John Lewis (£24.99)

Scalextric Let's Play Police Chase Exclusive

Age range: 3+ years

Get ready for high-speed action with the Police Chase Let’s Play Scalextric Set, exclusive to John Lewis. It includes two cars - a police SUV and a robber’s vehicle - along with two controllers and a power pack (batteries not included).

The Let's Play range is designed to accommodate younger racers, so the controllers include a power-limiting option to keep cars on track.

Available from John Lewis (£34.99).

Are there cheaper alternatives?

For a racing track and toy cars, you likely won't find much cheaper than the Police Chase set above - the My First Scalextric Let's Play! Race Set is around the same price. These Scalextric options tend to be cheaper than brands like Hot Wheels.

Cheaper racing track toys are available, although you usually won't have remote control over the cars.

• My First Scalextric Let's Play! Race Set – SQUIRREL_TEXT_50022256
• Glow Tracks Glow-in-the-Dark Race Track Double Loop Set – Available from Smyths Toys (£19.99)
• Monster Jam World Finals Supercharge Speedway Race Track Playset – SQUIRREL_TEXT_50022257
  

Happy without a track? We've found the best remote control cars for toddlers, children and adults

Sylvanian Families Skytop Fairy Castle

Age range: 3+ years

Sylvanian Families have been a beloved classic since the 1980s, and new sets are still being released. The Skytop Fairy Castle lets you join the Flower Fairy and Chocolate Rabbit baby as they enjoy rides around the castle.

Use the stand to make the Flower Fairy 'fly', sail the Leaf Boat, or stop by the castle café for a break.

Available from John Lewis (£59.99) or compare more prices below.

Are there cheaper alternatives?

Larger Sylvanian Families sets can be pricey, but there are smaller ones available for around £15 to £30.

• Sylvanian Families Kitchen Play Set – SQUIRREL_TEXT_50021922
• Sylvanian Families Baby Mermaid Shop Dollhouse – SQUIRREL_TEXT_50022264
• Sylvanian Families Grocery Market – SQUIRREL_TEXT_50022265 

Sylvanian Families were also one of our team's favourite Christmas gifts for five-year-olds - head to our dedicated guide to see what else they recommend

John Lewis Wooden Air Fryer

Age range: 3+ years

No kitchen is complete without an air fryer - even a play kitchen! This sage green wooden air fryer toy lets little chefs join in on the trend.

It comes with chips and drumsticks to 'cook', and a wooden handle to open and close the drawer.

Available from John Lewis (£30).

Are there cheaper alternatives?

Wooden toys are typically more expensive than plastic - we've found a couple of wooden air fryers for the same price or less than the John Lewis option, and a cheaper plastic option.

• Tooky Toy Wooden Double Air Fryer – Available from House of Fraser (£16.99) and GAME (£16.99) 
• Robud Wooden Toy Air Fryer Oven – SQUIRREL_TEXT_50022259
• Hapello Air Fryer – SQUIRREL_TEXT_50022260

We've reviewed the best air fryers (for grown-ups!)

VTech Toot-Toot Drivers Bluey & Satnav Road Trip Playset

Age range: 3+ years

Hit the road with Bluey with this road trip playset, which allows kids to drive the Heeler's car from home to the beach, school and more. The family car features light-up headlights and interactive details like a track switch, chimney launcher, openable house window and twistable flower.

It's also compatible with other Toot-Toot Drivers playsets.

Available from John Lewis (£44.99), or compare more prices below.

Are there cheaper alternatives?

Some other sets in the Toot-Toot Drivers range are more affordable than the Bluey-themed one. Or, if your little one is a true Bluey fanatic, the Bluey Mini Racers let them drive around with their favourite characters. 

• VTech Toot-Toot Drivers Repair Centre – SQUIRREL_TEXT_50022267
• VTech Toot-Toot Drivers Police Station – SQUIRREL_TEXT_50022268
• Bluey Mini Racers – SQUIRREL_TEXT_50022269

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Brio Mega Spiral Set

Age range: 3+ years

The Brio Mega Spiral Set includes 73 pieces with everything a budding builder needs to create towering spiral tracks, intricate loops and multi-level layouts. Use it as a standalone circuit or connect it to an existing Brio World for limitless customisation options.

You'll get three vehicles in this set: a fire engine, wheeled trailer and emergency helicopter to tackle the attachable 'fires' for action-packed play.

Available from John Lewis (£124.99).

Are there cheaper alternatives?

At over £120, this extensive set is a big purchase - we've found some smaller and cheaper options from Brio.

• Brio Farm Railway Set – SQUIRREL_TEXT_50022271
• Brio World Fire & Rescue Firefighter Set – SQUIRREL_TEXT_50022273
• Brio World Railway Lift & Load Warehouse – SQUIRREL_TEXT_50022272

The Brio-compatible Thomas and Friends Wooden Engine was one of our expert's top Christmas gifts for two-year olds. See which other gifts they loved in our guide

Tonies Toniebox 2 Starter Set

Age range: 1+ years

The Toniebox 2 is the second version of the screen-free audio player that brings stories, songs, and games to life using collectable Tonie figurines. Simply place the figurine on top and let it play.

This set includes a Creative Tonie that children can record their own audio to, but it also works with all Tonies for endless storytelling adventures.

Available from John Lewis (£99.99), or compare prices below.

Are there cheaper alternatives?

A Yoto player works similarly to a Toniebox, but uses cards instead of figurines, and costs around half the price. Alternatively, older kids might prefer a CD player with a radio function to play their favourite tracks.

• Yoto Mini Player 2024 Edition – SQUIRREL_TEXT_50022275
• Groov-e Original Boombox – SQUIRREL_TEXT_50022277
• Chad Valley CD Player – Available from Argos (£10)

No matter how you access your favourite music and audio content, our tests reveal the best DAB radios and best wireless speakers  

Go back to the top  

Hamleys' Festive 15 for 2025

Lego Marvel Spider-Man vs Doc Ock Subway Train Scene

Age range: 9+ years

This Lego Spider-Man Subway Train Scene is inspired by Marvel Studios’ Spider-Man 2. It includes minifigures of Spider-Man, Doc Ock, J. Jonah Jameson, and Aunt May, along with a subway train featuring a lift-off roof and interior space.

The set allows kids to recreate action scenes and can be built interactively using the LEGO Builder app.

Are there cheaper alternatives?

This set retails for around £40, but we've found some cheaper Spider-Man and other Marvel Lego options.

• Lego Marvel Dancing Groot – SQUIRREL_TEXT_50019715
• Lego Team Spidey Web Spinner Headquarters – SQUIRREL_TEXT_50021798
• Lego Marvel Spider-Man vs Venom Muscle Car – SQUIRREL_TEXT_50022549 

Find more Marvel Lego deals with our guide

Roblox Dress to Impress Fashion Dolls

Age range: 6+ years

Inspired by the popular online game Roblox, these posable mini dolls come with mix-and-match outfits, accessories and a collector card. Each model features a unique style and includes a DLC code which can be used in the online game to unlock digital items.

The dolls come in mystery boxes - you won't know which one you've got until it arrives.

Are there cheaper alternatives?

For Roblox fans, there are some similarly priced toys and other mystery boxes featuring characters from the game, though you won't tend to find much cheaper than the dress-up dolls above. Alternatively, if it's just a doll you're looking for, you can't go wrong with a Barbie.

• Roblox Pet Simulator Pets Mystery Figures (four-pack) – SQUIRREL_TEXT_50022550
• Roblox Piñata Smashlings 4cm Figures (five-pack) – SQUIRREL_TEXT_50022551
• Barbie Fashionistas Fruity Dress Doll – SQUIRREL_TEXT_50022591

TY Bouncers

Age range: 3+ years

These bouncy soft toys are available in a range of designs, from recognisable characters like Stitch, Mickey Mouse and Bluey to animals like cats, koalas and monkeys.

Hamleys currently sells more than 40 of these Bouncers on its website - we've rounded up a few available to buy below, or you can browse all TY Bouncers at Hamleys.

Are there cheaper alternatives?

Selling for just over £5 each, these toys make cute and affordable stocking-stuffers, and you'll struggle to find cheaper.

You will, however, be able to find 2.5-inch Squishmallows (known as Micromallows) for around the same price, or slightly cheaper if you buy in bulk. They look roughly similar, but without the fuzzy fur or ability to bounce.

• Micromallows Squishmallows Original (12-pack) – SQUIRREL_TEXT_50022559 
• Squishville by Original Squishmallows Perfect Pals (six-pack) – SQUIRREL_TEXT_50022560

L.O.L. Surprise Magic Flyers

Age range: 5+ years

The L.O.L. Surprise Magic Flyers are small casings which light up, shake and rock during unboxing. Each contain an L.O.L doll which springs out and flies using a propeller and can be guided by hand.

The case can be reused for future play, and one doll from the assortment is included per pack.

Are there cheaper alternatives?

Coming in between £20 and £30, this toy isn't cheap. There are plenty of more affordable options from the L.O.L Dolls range.

• L.O.L Surprise! OMG Doll – SQUIRREL_TEXT_50022562
• L.O.L. Surprise! Fairies Tots – SQUIRREL_TEXT_50022563 
• L.O.L. Surprise! Tweens - Mermaid Lana Marine – SQUIRREL_TEXT_50022564

Hamleys Market Place Food Plushies

Age range: From birth

Hamleys has its own range of food-themed plushies, similar to Jellycats. For Christmas 2025, it will be adding new characters, including a pizza slice, pretzel, pear, watermelon and more.

At the time of writing, the new plushies are unavailable to buy just yet, but you can browse the existing Hamleys Market Place range.

Are there cheaper alternatives?

The plushies in the current Market Place range are priced between £7.99 and £29.99. You can find food-themed Jellycats for a similar price point.

• Jellycat Amuseables Pain Au Chocolat – Available from Jellycat (£20)
• Jellycat Amuseables Aubergine – Available from Jellycat (£15)
• Jellycat Festive Folly Pear – Available from Jellycat (£14)

They're the newest plushies to take the world by storm - find out where you can buy Labubu toys

Strikesphere Soccer Dash

Age range: 6+ years

Soccer Dash is an interactive football trainer with six game modes, from solo drills to team challenges, which boost dribbling, reactions and control.

Built-in sensors register every hit on the waterproof targets for real-time feedback, while adaptive AI adjusts difficulty as you improve. The cushioned foam ball works indoors or outdoors and is easy to set up with a simple two-button control panel.

Are there cheaper alternatives?

If you're happy to forego the more technical AI features, we've found cheaper options for football fanatics looking to sharpen their skills and agility. Or, you could save by just buying a football and running the training sessions yourself.

• Forza Pod Football Goal Target Sheet – Available from Net World Sports (from £16.99) 
• Ygortech Football Training Equipment – SQUIRREL_TEXT_50022567
• Mitre Unisex Impel Football – SQUIRREL_TEXT_50022568

TNT Sports vs Sky Sports: we tell you which is best for watching the footy, F1 and more

Human Controller

Age range: 14+ years

The Human Controller turns power and chaos into pure party fun. One player wears the headset and blindly follows the wild commands of their Controller - who could send them chasing objects, playing blind baseball or pretending to be a dog.

It has 30 hilarious challenges, a built-in timer and app support for iOS and Android. Batteries are not included.

Are there cheaper alternatives?

If you're looking for silly family fun this Christmas, look no further. We've rounded up some cheaper interactive games that'll have you laughing for hours.

• Throw Throw Burrito – SQUIRREL_TEXT_50010025
• Swallow Your Words – SQUIRREL_TEXT_50022570 
• Chicken vs Hotdog – SQUIRREL_TEXT_50022571

Whether you're playing with just two players or the whole family, see our expert's pick of the best board games

Robosen Mini Robot Woody

Age range: Not stated

With authentic voice lines, expressive movements and endless customisation through Robosen Studio, Woody brings the Wild West to life right on your desk. As well as a robotic figurine, the set comes with a robotic base, manual and USB-C charging cable.

It's currently unavailable to buy through Hamleys or other retailers, but you can pre-order it at the Disney Store.

One Piece Egghead Arc Series Figurines

Age range: 3+ years

The One Piece Egghead Arc Series is a selection of collectible figurines inspired by the anime and manga 'One Piece', created in collaboration with designer Jason Freeny and collectible brand Mighty Jaxx.

Each figure features a bold, retro-futuristic design that reimagines characters from the 'Egghead Arc' storyline in Freeny’s distinctive artistic style. With seven to collect, these figures blend gaming, art and pop culture, appealing to both younger fans and long-time collectors.

Are there cheaper alternatives?

With each figurine retailing around £15, they're a budget-friendly gift for any anime fan. Another great option for affordable figurines is Funko Pop! We've listed a few One Piece-themed options below.

• Funko POP! Animation: One Piece - Monkey D. Luffy – SQUIRREL_TEXT_50022573
• Funko POP! Animation: One Piece - Snake-Man Monkey D. Luffy – SQUIRREL_TEXT_50022574
• Funko POP! One Piece: Vinsmoke Sanji – SQUIRREL_TEXT_50022574

Micro Drift RC  

Age range: 6+ years

This compact remote-control car comes with a handheld charger and launcher. Hamleys says it can perform smooth drifts in its four-wheel drive mode. 

This product hasn't been launched at Hamleys yet, but you can still browse other Hamleys Action Toys and Vehicles on its website.

Are there cheaper alternatives?

This item is expected to retail around £30 - on the cheaper end for a remote-control car. We've found some similar options around the same price point, or, if you forego remote control, you can get toys like Hot Wheels for less.

• RCG Racing E30 1:16 Mini Drift Car – Available from RC Geeks (£34.99)
• Air Hogs Remote Control Zero Gravity – Available from Smyths Toys (£29.99)
• Hot Wheels 5 Vehicle Pack – SQUIRREL_TEXT_50022575 

Read our review of the best remote controlled cars.

Star Wars Power Crystal Lightsaber 

Age range: 4+ years

Live out your Jedi fantasies - or embrace the dark side - with the Power Crystal Lightsaber, the ultimate Star Wars build-and-play experience.

Featuring 10 interchangeable kyber crystals, you can mix and match to create over 50 unique combinations of colours and sounds. It also has an extendable blade, Force blast effect and a glowing core.

Are there cheaper alternatives?

Cheaper lightsaber toys are available, though they won't have all the customisable features of the Power Crystal Lightsaber. Combine a red lightsaber with the right mask and costume and you'll have a little Darth Vader on your hands.

• Kids Light-up Lightsaber – SQUIRREL_TEXT_50022581
• Star Wars Lightsaber Forge Kyber Core – SQUIRREL_TEXT_50022582
• Rubie's Official Disney Star Wars Darth Vader Costume – SQUIRREL_TEXT_50022583 

Build iconic starships and characters from a galaxy far, far away - without an intergalactic price point. See the best Star Wars Lego deals

Peppa Pig Baby Evie with Blanket Plush

Age range: 18 months +

Meet Evie, Peppa Pig’s adorable new baby sister. This 19cm soft plush is designed for cuddling and imaginative play, and makes a great gift for young Peppa Pig fans.

It's not been released at Hamleys yet, but you can currently find it at Smyths Toys (£12.99).

Are there cheaper alternatives?

For a soft plushie character toy, Evie isn't too pricey. There's a huge range of other Peppa Pig-themed plushies, dolls, figurines - plus other toys, games and accessories - to choose from if your little one is a fan.

We've rounded up a few inexpensive options below.

• Peppa Pig Plush (53cm) – Available from Smyths Toys (£7.99)
• Peppa Pig Wooden Sorting Puzzle – SQUIRREL_TEXT_50022584
• Peppa Pig Date & Time Digital Watch – SQUIRREL_TEXT_50022585

There's nothing quite like Christmas with a little one. We've found the perfect gifts to make it truly special: see the best gifts for one-year-olds

Playmobil Sky Trails

Age range: 7+ years

Get ready for high-speed racing fun with this dynamic Playmobil starter track. Build twisting bends, daring jumps and ever-changing courses with this 231-piece set, then send your rider speeding down.

Expansions like the Air Lift, Sky Rider and Flip Rail can be bought separately and added to your existing set-up.

Are there cheaper alternatives?

Retailing around £70, this starter pack isn't cheap. You could save by opting for a marble run or a Hot Wheels high-speed race track instead.

• National Geographic Marble Run with Motorised Elevator – SQUIRREL_TEXT_50022587
• Hot Wheels Loop & Launch Track Set – SQUIRREL_TEXT_50022588
• Hot Wheels Figure-8 Track – SQUIRREL_TEXT_50022589 

Wooden Hamburger Stacker 

Age range: 2+ years

The Kitchen Corner Wooden Stacking Hamburger serves up endless imaginative fun for little chefs. With 12 colourful wooden pieces including buns, lettuce, egg, tomato, beef, bacon, cheese and more, kids can build and rebuild their perfect burger creation.

It encourages imaginative play, creativity and fine motor skill development while helping children learn about ingredients and food preparation.

It's currently unavailable at Hamleys, but you can currently find it at Smyths Toys (£5.99).

Are there cheaper alternatives?

At £6, this stacker makes an affordable stocking filler. We found some similarly priced options to add to your child's play kitchen.

• Kitchen Corner Wooden Hot Chocolate Set – Available from Smyths Toys (£6.99)
• Kitchen Corner Wooden Eggs – Available from Smyths Toys (£3.99)
• Urbn Toys Wooden Bread & Buns – SQUIRREL_TEXT_50022590 

Hamleys Bertie Heritage Teddy Bear  

Age range: From birth

Hamleys currently sells a collection of 17 Heritage Bears, typically distinguished by their neck bows and Hamleys branding on their feet. This year, the brand will be releasing three new bears - named Tilly, Maple and Bertie - available in 20cm, 25cm and 30cm sizes.

While they new additions are yet to be released, you can browse all Hamleys Heritage Bears on its website.

Are there cheaper alternatives?

The exact prices of the new bears is currently unknown, but Hamleys tells us they'll start around £20. A simple teddy bear shouldn't too be hard to come by for under around £10. See alternative options from Ikea and Smyths Toys:

• Ikea Djungelskog (28cm) – Available from Ikea (£10)
• Benny the Brown Teddy Bear (43cm) – Available from Smyths Toys (£8.99)
• Chad Valley Super Soft Bear – Available from Argos (£6)

They're not quite toddlers and not quite big kids, and shopping for them can be fickle. See the best Christmas gifts for three-year olds and best Christmas gifts for four-year-olds to help you find the perfect present

Go back to the top 

Our expert says

Jurassic World toys

Below, we've rounded up a selection of Jurassic World-themed toys, games and accessories sure to please any dino-loving kid this Christmas, starting at under £5. 

What are the top toy lists for Christmas 2025?

Each year, John Lewis, Amazon and Hamleys compile lists of the toys they expect to be popular with kids for Christmas.

So far, John Lewis and Hamleys have unveiled their lists, but we'll be compiling all the products on these brands' Top Toy 2025 lists as they're released. You can also view the lists on the retailers' websites.

• Head to the John Lewis Top Christmas Toys for 2025 list.
• Head to the Hamleys Festive 15 for 2025 list.
  

More Christmas gift ideas from Which?

Still on the hunt for more present inspiration? Head to one of our handy gift guides:

• Best cheap Christmas gifts under £30
  
• Best early Christmas gift ideas
• Best Christmas gifts for men
• Best Christmas gifts for women
• Best Christmas gifts for gardeners
• Best Christmas gifts for kids
• Best Christmas gifts for dogs