1. Learning Space
City/Town: Cookstown
Postal Code: BT80 9HU
Street Address: 7 Corchoney Rd
Country: Northern Ireland
2. Tigeroo Toys
City/Town: Belfast
Postal Code: BT1 6ET
Street Address: 11 Fountain Centre College St
Country: Northern Ireland
3. Andy’s Aeroplanes
City/Town: Belfast
Postal Code: BT1 5JA
Street Address: The Metro Building, 6-9 Donegall Square South
Country: Northern Ireland
4. A M Models
City/Town: Craigavon
Postal Code: BT62 4EQ
Street Address: 170 Loughgall Rd
Country: Northern Ireland
5. Spot on Sports & Toys
City/Town: Newry
Postal Code: BT34 4AD
Street Address: 9 Bridge St
Country: Northern Ireland
6. W & J Walkers Toymaster
City/Town: Ballymoney
Postal Code: BT53 6AL
Street Address: 26 Main Street
Country: Northern Ireland
7. R A Cuddy
City/Town: Magherafelt
Postal Code: BT45 6EE
Street Address: 13-15 Market Street
Country: Northern Ireland
8. Little Bambino
City/Town: Craigavon
Postal Code: BT66 8AA
Street Address: 9a High St
Country: Northern Ireland
9. Crumtons
City/Town: Bangor
Postal Code: BT20 4JA
Street Address: 4 Abbey St
Country: Northern Ireland
10. ToyBoxNI
City/Town: Craigavon
Postal Code: BT65 5HU
Street Address: 4c Moyraverty West Rd
Country: Northern Ireland
11. Little Citizens Boutique
City/Town: Holywood
Postal Code: BT18 9HW
Street Address: 120 High St
Country: Northern Ireland
12. 1 Stop Sensory Shop
City/Town: Lisburn
Postal Code: BT27 6YN
Street Address: 143a Saintfield Rd
Country: Northern Ireland
13. Paul Armstrong Surfacing Ltd
City/Town: Hillsborough
Postal Code: BT26 6DX
Street Address: 55 Moira Rd
Country: Northern Ireland
14. Early Learning Centre
City/Town: Lisburn
Postal Code: BT28 1BN
Street Address: 20 Henderson St Leith
Country: Northern Ireland
15. The Rinkha
City/Town: Larne
Postal Code: BT40 3SL
Street Address: 55 Middle Rd
Country: Northern Ireland
16. Toytown
City/Town: Newtownards
Postal Code: BT23 4TJ
Street Address: Unit 1 Kiltonga Ind Est, 44 Belfast Rd
Country: Northern Ireland
17. Select Kidz Retail
City/Town: Omagh
Postal Code: BT78 1EX
Street Address: Market House Market Rd
Country: Northern Ireland
18. Early Learning Centre
City/Town: Belfast
Postal Code: BT1 1GB
Street Address: Ladywell Rd Ladywell
Country: Northern Ireland
19. Cuddle Buddies
City/Town: Londonderry
Postal Code: BT48 8FH
Street Address: 219 Woodbrook
Country: Northern Ireland
20. All Thingz Kidz
City/Town: Dungannon
Postal Code: BT70 3ND
Street Address: 37 Lisnamonaghan Meadows
Country: Northern Ireland
21. Puzzle Playhouse
City/Town: Coleraine
Postal Code: BT52 1DY
Street Address: 36 Waterside
Country: Northern Ireland
22. Toy Central
City/Town: Enniskillen
Postal Code: BT74 6HR
Street Address: 11 Church St
Country: Northern Ireland
23. Adventure Toys
City/Town: Antrim
Postal Code: BT41 4BE
Street Address: 55 Market Square
Country: Northern Ireland
24. Kiddie Cove
City/Town: Ballyclare
Postal Code: BT39 9BB
Street Address: 22 Main St
Country: Northern Ireland
25. Simply Sensory
City/Town: Strabane
Postal Code: BT82 8AW
Street Address: 45 Abercorn Square
Country: Northern Ireland
26. Toyland
City/Town: Banbridge
Postal Code: BT32 3JP
Street Address: 67 Newry St
Country: Northern Ireland
27. The Toy Cupboard
City/Town: Limavady
Postal Code: BT49 0AB
Street Address: 12 Main St
Country: Northern Ireland
28. Tiny Town Treasures
City/Town: Portadown
Postal Code: BT62 3NZ
Street Address: 3 Thomas St
Country: Northern Ireland
29. Wee Wonders
City/Town: Ballycastle
Postal Code: BT54 6AA
Street Address: 5 Ann St
Country: Northern Ireland
30. The Play Store
City/Town: Carrickfergus
Postal Code: BT38 7AD
Street Address: 89 Irish Quarter West
Country: Northern Ireland
31. Peek-a-Boo Toys
City/Town: Downpatrick
Postal Code: BT30 6LY
Street Address: 18 Market St
Country: Northern Ireland
32. Little Giggles
City/Town: Newtownabbey
Postal Code: BT36 5DA
Street Address: 27 Carnmoney Rd
Country: Northern Ireland
33. Tiny Tykes
City/Town: Armagh
Postal Code: BT61 7BA
Street Address: 15 Upper English St
Country: Northern Ireland
34. Dreamland Toys
City/Town: Lisburn
Postal Code: BT28 1TT
Street Address: 9 Smithfield St
Country: Northern Ireland
35. Wonderworld Toys
City/Town: Newcastle
Postal Code: BT33 0AB
Street Address: 22 Main St
Country: Northern Ireland
36. Kiddiwinks
City/Town: Ballynahinch
Postal Code: BT24 8AB
Street Address: 10 Main St
Country: Northern Ireland
37. The Magic Box
City/Town: Omagh
Postal Code: BT79 7AQ
Street Address: 8 Scarffe’s Entry
Country: Northern Ireland
38. Tots & Toys
City/Town: Newry
Postal Code: BT35 6BA
Street Address: 45 Hill St
Country: Northern Ireland
39. Wee World
City/Town: Bangor
Postal Code: BT19 7PG
Street Address: 56 Bloomfield Shopping Centre
Country: Northern Ireland
40. Little Hands
City/Town: Dungannon
Postal Code: BT71 6AA
Street Address: 19 Market Square
Country: Northern Ireland
41. Imagination Station
City/Town: Londonderry
Postal Code: BT48 6BU
Street Address: 1 Strand Rd
Country: Northern Ireland
42. My Toy Box
City/Town: Coleraine
Postal Code: BT51 3EY
Street Address: 88 Newbridge Rd
Country: Northern Ireland
43. Playtime Paradise
City/Town: Ballymena
Postal Code: BT42 1BW
Street Address: 36 Wellington St
Country: Northern Ireland
44. Little Dreams
City/Town: Antrim
Postal Code: BT41 3AB
Street Address: 12 Castle Way
Country: Northern Ireland
45. Tiny Town Toys
City/Town: Portstewart
Postal Code: BT55 7AE
Street Address: 3 Promenade
Country: Northern Ireland
46. All About Kids
City/Town: Magherafelt
Postal Code: BT45 5PP
Street Address: 27 Broad St
Country: Northern Ireland
47. The Toy Shop
City/Town: Bangor
Postal Code: BT20 5EG
Street Address: 18 Hamilton Rd
Country: Northern Ireland
48. First Steps
City/Town: Cookstown
Postal Code: BT80 8DN
Street Address: 7 Loy St
Country: Northern Ireland
49. Fun Zone
City/Town: Newtownards
Postal Code: BT23 4NP
Street Address: 23 Regent St
Country: Northern Ireland
50. Small World Toys
City/Town: Lisburn
Postal Code: BT28 2GN
Street Address: 4 Enterprise Crescent
Country: Northern Ireland
Toy shops in Northern Ireland offer a wide range of products that cater to children of all ages, from educational toys to the latest trending items and classic games. The toy industry in Northern Ireland is diverse, with independent shops, large retailers, and specialist boutiques providing everything from plush toys and action figures to board games, puzzles, and STEM toys. These stores play a crucial role in the cultural and social fabric of Northern Ireland, where parents and caregivers seek out high-quality, engaging toys for their children.
The Toy Retail Landscape in Northern Ireland
The toy market in Northern Ireland, like elsewhere, has evolved significantly over the years. While large multinational brands and chain stores such as Smyths Toys and The Entertainer dominate in terms of mass-market retail, many independent toy shops continue to thrive by offering personalized service, niche products, and a curated selection of educational and unique toys. These smaller, independent shops often provide a more intimate shopping experience, where the staff have extensive knowledge of the products and can offer expert advice to parents and gift-givers.
In recent years, there has also been a growing interest in eco-friendly and sustainable toys. Parents are increasingly looking for toys that are not only fun but also safe, durable, and kind to the environment. Many toy shops in Northern Ireland have responded to this demand by stocking wooden toys, biodegradable dolls, and environmentally conscious brands.
Types of Toys Available
Northern Ireland’s toy shops offer a wide variety of products, ensuring there is something for every interest, age, and budget. The primary categories of toys include:
1. Educational Toys
Educational toys are a key focus in many Northern Irish toy shops, as they are designed to promote learning through play. These toys aim to enhance cognitive skills, motor skills, and problem-solving abilities. Common examples include building blocks, puzzles, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) kits, and interactive books. These toys are ideal for encouraging children to develop creativity, critical thinking, and social skills, making them popular choices for parents and caregivers.
Brands such as LEGO, Fisher-Price, and VTech are staples in many stores, but independent retailers also stock unique and specialized educational toys. Many toy shops focus on toys that encourage imaginative play, like wooden train sets and dolls’ houses, as well as educational games that teach numbers, letters, and colors.
2. Action Figures and Dolls
For children who love to engage in pretend play, action figures and dolls are a key part of the toy market in Northern Ireland. These toys allow children to create their own stories and adventures, often inspired by popular TV shows, movies, or comics. Superhero figures, fantasy characters, and dolls from well-known franchises such as Barbie, Disney Princesses, and Marvel are popular items in many toy shops.
In addition to the well-known mainstream figures, independent toy shops often carry handmade or unique dolls and action figures, including those made from eco-friendly materials. These toys may come with more personalized options, like customizable clothing or accessories, which appeal to children looking for something distinctive.
3. Board Games and Puzzles
Board games and puzzles are beloved staples in toy shops throughout Northern Ireland. They offer families hours of entertainment and often encourage social interaction. Traditional games like Monopoly, Scrabble, and Clue are widely available, but many toy shops also stock modern games that cater to different age groups and interests, including strategy games, role-playing games, and party games.
Jigsaw puzzles, ranging from simple wooden puzzles for toddlers to complex 1000-piece puzzles for older children and adults, are another popular offering in these shops. Puzzle manufacturers often create designs that reflect local culture, landmarks, or iconic images of Northern Ireland, making them particularly appealing to those wanting to support local businesses or gift something uniquely Northern Irish.
4. Outdoor and Active Toys
With Northern Ireland’s often unpredictable weather, outdoor toys are a significant part of the toy market. Many stores offer sports equipment like footballs, tennis rackets, and basketballs, as well as garden toys like swings, trampolines, and slides. Outdoor adventure kits, such as binoculars, magnifying glasses, and camping gear for kids, encourage outdoor play and exploration, which are key for fostering healthy, active lifestyles in children.
Bikes, scooters, and roller skates are also widely available, and many shops carry safety gear such as helmets and pads. These types of toys are excellent for promoting physical activity and outdoor engagement, particularly in areas with access to parks or open spaces.
5. Craft and Creative Toys
Creative and craft-based toys have seen a surge in popularity in Northern Ireland in recent years. These toys encourage children to use their imaginations and hands-on skills to create artwork, models, and even jewelry. Clay modeling sets, paint-by-numbers, knitting kits, and bead-making sets are available in many stores, as well as more advanced craft kits for older children interested in sewing, knitting, or building models.
These toys not only entertain but also teach valuable life skills such as patience, attention to detail, and the joy of creating something with your own hands. Many of these products also come with instructions and ideas for DIY projects, allowing children to expand their horizons and develop their artistic abilities.
Notable Toy Shops in Northern Ireland
There are several toy shops in Northern Ireland that stand out for their exceptional range of products, customer service, and unique offerings.
1. The Toymaster Stores
Toymaster is one of the largest toy store networks in Northern Ireland, with locations in cities such as Belfast and Derry. Toymaster stores are known for their vast selection of toys and games, ranging from the latest technological toys to traditional educational pieces. They offer everything from action figures and dolls to board games and arts and crafts, catering to a wide range of customers. Their stores also provide seasonal items, such as Easter baskets and Christmas toys, making it a convenient option for last-minute gifts.
2. Smylies Toy Store (Belfast)
Located in Belfast, Smylies is a family-owned toy shop that offers a comprehensive range of toys for children of all ages. Known for its friendly service and expert advice, Smylies provides an array of high-quality toys, including educational products, puzzles, and outdoor gear. The shop is particularly popular for its selection of traditional and eco-friendly toys, with many handmade items sourced locally.
3. The Entertainer (Belfast)
The Entertainer is a popular chain of toy stores with a location in Belfast. This store is known for offering the latest toys from leading brands such as LEGO, Mattel, and Hasbro. With a wide range of products from action figures to board games, The Entertainer is a great option for finding the newest releases and bestsellers in the toy market. The store also offers seasonal discounts and promotions, making it a favorite for parents shopping on a budget.
4. Dundonald Toy Shop
The Dundonald Toy Shop is a charming, independent toy store located in the suburb of Dundonald. This local gem specializes in a curated collection of toys, including educational items, puzzles, and unique handcrafted products. The shop is particularly known for its selection of wooden toys and environmentally friendly options, which have made it a popular destination for parents looking for sustainable alternatives.
The Role of Toy Shops in Northern Irish Communities
Toy shops in Northern Ireland play an important role in the local economy and culture. Beyond simply selling toys, these shops often act as community hubs where parents can seek advice, discuss the latest trends in toys, or even attend special events such as toy launches or children’s parties. Many independent toy shops are involved in charity events and sponsorships, reinforcing their connection to the community.
The growing trend of supporting small businesses means that more and more Northern Irish parents are choosing to shop locally, ensuring that these independent toy stores continue to thrive.
Conclusion
Toy shops in Northern Ireland offer a wide range of products that cater to different age groups, interests, and educational needs. From large chain stores with extensive selections to independent shops offering unique and sustainable toys, there is something for everyone in Northern Ireland’s toy market. These stores are more than just places to buy toys; they are key players in fostering creativity, education, and family bonding, helping to shape the next generation of children in Northern Ireland.