The DreamToys 2026 List predicts the hottest tabletop games this Christmas. What made it under the tree?
The annual DreamToys 2026 list features 15 innovative toys and games selected by a panel of independent toy retailers and experts, from small independents to national chains. These 15 toys are the ones the panel predicts will be most in demand this Christmas, with three tabletop gems making this year’s list.
The DreamToys 2026 List was Unveiled against the backdrop of the UK’s fastest-growing toy market in more than a decade. Industry data tracking experts at Circana revealed that the UK toy market to September 2026 grew by 13 per cent in value, reaching £2.64bn, or £4.58bn for the 12 months from September 2025. Unit sales rose 17 per cent to 257 million, representing an additional 38 million toys purchased compared with the same period last year.
The research found that children’s weekend playtime with toys and games is up 10 per cent on last year, and one in five parents of children aged three to nine say the chance to play together as a family influences what they buy.
Growth was driven by strong performance across a broad range of categories, While explorative toys led the way (+45 per cent), sales of traditional games (including board games) were up 17 per cent.
“2026 has been incredible for the UK toy market, with growth reaching levels we haven’t seen in more than a decade. What’s particularly encouraging is that this isn’t being driven by one product or category. Innovation, newness and the enduring appeal of play are helping the market grow across a wide range of toys,” says Paul Reader, Chairman of the DreamToys Selection Panel at the Toy Retailers Association.
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