The TOY Project
Rating
Family of 4
Free to enter; toys typically USD 10-50
Duration
30-60 minutes
Best Ages
Best for ages 0-10
About
The TOY Project on Junction Road in Archway is a well-regarded independent toy shop in north London, holding a 4.7-star rating that reflects genuine community loyalty. The shop occupies a neighbourhood retail space in N19, serving families across Archway, Tufnell Park, Islington and the surrounding area.
The stock is thoughtfully chosen, with an emphasis on toys that have genuine play value and longevity. You'll find a mix of classic and contemporary toys — puzzles, building sets, arts and crafts, outdoor play, and imaginative toys — without the mass-market clutter that fills the shelves of chain toy retailers. The curation is evident from the moment you walk in.
For local families, The TOY Project is the kind of shop that becomes a regular destination rather than a one-off visit. The staff know the stock well and can make confident recommendations based on a child's age, interests and personality. This kind of personal service is the defining advantage of a well-run independent over any large chain.
The Junction Road location is accessible from Archway and Tufnell Park tube stations and sits close to a good selection of local cafes. For families in north London looking for an alternative to the online toy giants or the tourist-heavy experience of Hamleys, this is an excellent local option.
Age Suitability
Parent Logistics
Stroller-Friendly
Yes
Nursing / Changing
Unknown
Kid Meals
N/A
Setting
Indoor
Rainy Day
Great option!
Plan Your Visit
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings
Wait Times
Minimal
Nearby Food
Junction Road and Archway Road have several cafes; Highgate Village is a short journey away with more options
Why Kids Love It
A neighbourhood toy shop with real character — the kind of place that makes children feel genuinely excited about what they might find.
Pro Tips from Parents
- Great for birthday gifts — the selection is original and unlikely to duplicate what other guests buy from chains
- Staff recommendations are worth asking for — they know what actually gets played with
- Combine with a visit to Waterlow Park nearby for a fuller north London outing
What to Bring
- The child's age and interests — that's all staff need to make a great recommendation
Cost Info
Estimated Cost (Family of 4)
Free to enter; toys typically USD 10-50
Tips to Save
- Independent shop with carefully chosen stock — lower risk of buying something that gets ignored after day one
Hours & Contact
Hours
- Friday
- 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Monday
- 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Sunday
- Closed
- Tuesday
- 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday
- 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Thursday
- 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Wednesday
- 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM