After months of research and testing, here are the top 10 toys guaranteed to bring smiles on the big day and beyond
It might feel a long way off, but Christmas 2026 is shaping up to be a cracker. Our expert toy buyers have announced the top 10 toys that every child will want to unwrap on 25 December, and the line-up is an eclectic mix of classic childhood toys and new family favourites, plus one inspired by the biggest global phenomenon.
It’s play time
John Lewis predicts that for Christmas 2026 intergenerational play will take centre stage, with grandparents, parents, children and siblings swapping screen time for play time. The Breakfast in Bed Set by John Lewis is set to spark imaginative family role play, tapping into the nation’s love of festive slow mornings. The classic doll’s house is officially making a comeback; Le Toy Van Paddington Doll’s House is a future heirloom that will be played with forever. Plus, Marvin’s Magic is bringing back the joyful charm of the classic living room show, with a set that’ll get little ones embracing the art of performance.
The Plus-Plus Learn to Build Space Super Set is here set to unite families in the same way the Artemis II launch united the world in April – in wonder – while the Connetix Ball Run Launcher adds a kinetic twist to construction, perfect for experimenting with gravity and design. And continuing the making theme, what could be more fun than building a festive LEGO train track around your Christmas tree? LEGO has unveiled its Icons 10361 Winter Village Collection Holiday Express Train, exclusive to John Lewis, designed for families to step away from screens and build together, one brick at a time.
The must-have names
With K-Pop continuing to shape global culture, the Mattel K-Pop Demon Hunters Singing Dolls are set to strike a chord with fans across generations – expect them to sell out. Leaning in to the boom in blind-box collectibles, TOMY’s Momiji Sugar Plum Wood Blind Box Message Dolls create a little magic with their hidden personalised messages.
Meanwhile, with Mon Ami set to officially launch in UK retail exclusively at John Lewis, the Colette The Duck will be your child’s new BFF. And ahead of the highly anticipated release of Julia Donaldson’s Gruffalo Granny book (released 10 September), ride the wave of Gruffalo mania with the exclusive Micro Scooters Mini LED Foldable Scooter and accessories.
The top 10 toys in price order
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Marvin’s Magic Treasured Tricks Wooden Set, £39.99 (6+ years)
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Plus-Plus Learn To Build Space Superset, £49.99 (5+ years) Exclusive to John Lewis
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Micro Scooters Mini Micro Eco Gruffalo Foldable LED Scooter £116.95 (2+ years)