This time last year, the beloved Pollock's Toy Museum in Fitzrovia suddenly closed its doors.
But it's not Game Over. Since then, it's enjoyed a Christmas pop-up in Leadenhall Market, and now, is about to host another pop-up, this time, in central Croydon.
Opening in the Whitgift Centre on Saturday 20 January 2024 — then subsequently every Saturday until at least April — the pop-up will hone in on Croydon's own toy making legacy. Croydon was once home to a major toy factory, namely A Barton, which was based in New Addington from the 1950s-80s, and the museum pop-up features doll's houses, furniture and food made by the company.
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Other items on display include a die-cast model of the Trojan 200 bubble car — real-life versions of which were manufactured in Croydon during the 1960s — and Tri-ang toys made by Lines Bros, once based in Merton .
The pop-up is free to visit, and will also featured free-to-watch toy theatre shows, which sounds altogether charming.
Pollock's, which is a charity, is still seeking volunteers to help out at its Croydon pop-up. In the long run, they hope to open another permanent museum in central London.
Pollock's Toy Museum pop-up, Whitgift Centre, Croydon, every Saturday from 20 January till spring/summer 2024. free entry.
The Leadenhall Market pop-up is open every Friday until 26 January 2024.
