British families are preparing for an expensive festive season as experts reveal the hottest toys predicted to dominate Christmas 2025 wish lists across the UK.
Record-breaking festive spending expected
The UK toy market continues to demonstrate remarkable resilience, currently valued at an impressive £3.9 billion. Christmas sales alone are projected to account for 23% of the total annual revenue, highlighting the crucial importance of the festive period for retailers.
According to recent data from The Insights Family, parental spending on presents has surged by 12% compared to last year, indicating that families are allocating more budget than ever towards making Christmas magical for their children.
The must-have toys of Christmas 2025
The prestigious DreamToys list, compiled by industry experts, features several standout products expected to be in high demand. Leading the pack are familiar favourites and new innovations including Peppa Pig, Formula 1 Lego sets, Hot Wheels, and Wicked Dolls.
Among the most anticipated interactive toys is the Peppa Pig Oinks & Snuggles Evie Doll, priced at £29.99. This comprehensive playset includes approximately 20 different sounds and comes complete with a playmat, bottle, dummy, bib and blanket for immersive role-playing.
The Wicked For Good Singing Dolls are generating significant buzz ahead of the franchise's second movie release in coming weeks. Priced at £34.99, these musical dolls are expected to be particularly sought-after.
For dinosaur enthusiasts, the Jurassic World Primal Hatch T.Rex offers an engaging unboxing experience where children can tap the egg shell to reveal the dinosaur inside, then care for their new prehistoric pet. This interactive toy retails for £64.99.
Motor sports fans have multiple options to choose from, with Lego and Mattel's Hot Wheels Racing F1 Grand Prix Circuit (£79.99) capitalising on Formula 1's 75th anniversary celebrations. The Monster Jam Smash & Bash Grave Digger RC (£49.99) provides remote-controlled demolition excitement.
Collectables and building sets maintain popularity
Traditional favourites continue to perform strongly, with collectables like Mini Brands and Pokemon maintaining their appeal. The Pokemon Trading Card Game: Mega Evolution Elite Trainer Box featuring Gardevoir is priced at £54.99, while the Mini Brands Fill the Fridge Playset costs £19.99.
Building sets have demonstrated particularly robust growth, becoming the fastest-growing category for the second consecutive year. Notable examples include the One Piece the Going Merry Pirate Ship LEGO at £119.99 and Speed Champions F1 Racing Cars LEGO priced at £22.99.
Paul Reader, chairman of the DreamToys selection panel at the Toy Retailers Association, commented: "This year's DreamToys list offers an exciting and diverse range of toys and games designed to spark imagination and fuel creativity."
He added: "After an incredible year for the toy industry, it's reassuring to see families are back to supporting in-store shopping. We only stock high-quality, safe toys and we all have experts on hand to help pick the perfect gift."
Melissa Symonds, executive director of UK toys at Circana, noted the positive market conditions: "With the toy market experiencing growth this year, after five years of a soft market, it's a positive picture for both toy manufacturers and retailers as we head towards the crucial golden quarter."
The complete list of predicted bestsellers includes options across various price points, from the £12.99 Dress To Impress Mystery Model Dolls to premium items like the £79.99 Disney Stitch Ultimate Stitch Interactive Feature Plush, ensuring there are gift options available for every budget.
