Zoe CraigLondon Christmas Gift Guide: Toys And Puzzles Edition
Christmas just isn't Christmas without toys. So here are the finest examples of London-themed toys and puzzles out there, that'll hopefully bring satisfied smiles to the faces of both the kids and the 'big kids' in your life this Christmas.
As novelty chess sets go, this is a pretty striking example. Go for the classic black and white, or this slightly more garish version if you prefer. We can't decide if there's a political statement being made, using terraced houses as pawns... London Skyline Architectural Chess Set, £80
The sort of model-making kit that makes us wish we were 10 again, this fab gift from Maps International gives anyone aged eight and over the chance to make five London landmarks out of paper and then place them on a colourful map of the city. 3D London Model Map Craft Kit, £8.99
Start their love of London puzzles early, with these gorgeous (and really reasonable) London jigsaws from ELC. This Londonist's two-year-old is currently jigsaw mad, and we think plenty of other kids the same age would love to find these in their Christmas stocking. 6 London Puzzles, £6
If the tot you're buying for isn't the sit-and-do-puzzles-type, get their love of London fired up with this brilliant bus set instead. Parents' warning: it requires batteries for the 'fun bus sounds'.
Not one for the kids, this Monumini model kit is made of etched stainless steel that you can fold and clip together to create a miniature Battersea Power Station. Dreamt up by London designer Aimée Furnival, there are various gorgeous London landmarks to choose from, including the Royal Albert Hall and the Barbican. Monumini Battersea Power Station, £16.95
If stainless steel isn't your thing, we recommend twisting your fingers around a nanoblock puzzle instead. Japan's diminutive answer to lego, nanoblock offer a Tower Bridge and a Double Decker Bus to the London puzzle fans, but we love the Big Ben, which comes with its own tiny bus and trees. Nanoblocks Big Ben, £14.99
We've looked at lots of wooden 'London-in-a-bag' style play sets. Lots. (Seriously, LOTS.) And despite its fairly hefty price tag, we have to say that this is just the best one out there. Colourful, robust, varied, with a train track, and, most importantly, accompanied by those magical words all parents love: 'compatible with BRIO and BigJigs'. Ladies and gents; we have a winner. City of London Wooden Train Set, 49.99
Who doesn't love snap? A brilliant stocking-filler, this colourful 52-card pack should give the whole family hours of good old-fashioned fun. Who needs a new iPad app when there's London snap to be played? London Snap, £5.99
Looking for more London gift inspiration? Take a look at our Londonist range of t-shirts, mugs, phone cases and more, perfect for any London aficionado.
