The annual DreamToys list for 2025 has officially arrived, providing parents across the UK with an essential guide to the season's most-wanted gifts. This expert-curated selection reveals the fifteen toys predicted to dominate children's letters to Santa, offering a crucial head start for festive shoppers.
UK Toy Market Enjoys Major Comeback
This year's list arrives during a significant resurgence for the British toy industry. Spending has increased by 6%, marking the largest boost since 2020, as shoppers return to physical stores. The revival is partly driven by parents, who are now spending 12% more on gifts for their own children, signalling that Christmas 2025 is set to be a bumper year for retailers.
The DreamToys list is compiled by a panel of independent toy experts from a range of outlets, from small local shops to the biggest national chains. It acts as a definitive cheat sheet, forecasting the products that will spark the most excitement under the tree.
The 15 Must-Have Toys of Christmas 2025
Here is the complete breakdown of the toys experts say will be the most sought-after this festive season. With many items already on sale, acting quickly is advised to avoid December disappointment.
- Dress To Impress Mystery Model Dolls – £12.99
Ideal for young fashion enthusiasts, these dolls come with surprise outfits and accessories that promote creative mix-and-match play. - Gui Gui Shimmer Deluxe Pack – £19.99 (now £16)
A sparkly craft set designed for children who love adding a touch of colourful chaos to their creations. - Hot Wheels Racing F1 Grand Prix Circuit – £79.99 (now £59.99)
Inspired by iconic Formula 1 moments, this fast, looping race track promises loud cheers and dramatic crashes. - Human Controller – £34.99
A hilariously physical party game where players use their own bodies to control the on-screen action, guaranteeing big energy and laughter. - Jurassic World Primal Hatch T.Rex – £64.99 (now £44.99)
This hatching dinosaur toy brings the franchise to life with realistic sounds, movement, and plenty of prehistoric drama. - Marshmallow Madness – £19.99 (now £14.99)
Pure, ridiculous fun centred around launching soft, marshmallow-like pieces in chaotic family battles. - Mini Brands: Fill the Fridge Playset – £19.99
Perfect for the collector, this playset includes tiny, authentic versions of supermarket items to stock, sort, and organise. - Monster Jam Smash & Bash Grave Digger RC – £49.99 (now £35)
A remote-control monster truck built for high-impact stunts, flips, and living room demolition derbies. - One Piece ‘Going Merry’ Pirate Ship – £119.99
A detailed building set that taps into the massive anime craze, allowing fans to construct the iconic pirate ship. - Peppa Pig Oinks & Snuggles Evie Doll – £29.99
A cuddly pre-school pick that emits Peppa-style sounds and offers a soft, huggable feel for younger children. - Pokémon Mega Evolution Elite Trainer Box – £54.99
A collector's dream, this box contains exclusive cards and all the essentials for young trainers to upgrade their game. - Speed Champions F1 Racing Cars – £22.99
A budget-friendly building set that celebrates the 75th anniversary of Formula 1. - Sticki Rolls Sticki Rolluxe – £39.99
A creative gadget that lets children design and make their own peelable stickers for personalising their belongings. - Disney Stitch Ultimate Interactive Plush – £79.99
A super-cute, animated Stitch toy complete with sounds and movements, aimed at older kids and serious collectors. - Wicked For Good Singing Dolls – £34.99 (now £26)
Inspired by the new Wicked film, these dolls sing and recreate key moments from the beloved musical.
Why You Should Shop Early This Christmas
With this insider knowledge, the message from experts is clear: do not wait until the last minute. These highly popular toys are already selling out, and the festive rush in December will only intensify the scramble. Securing these top-tier gifts now is the best way to ensure a magical and stress-free Christmas morning.
