If you are walking in Prague and suddenly you smell the aroma of fresh popcorn and sweets in the air, which creates an atmosphere of fun and seems to take you back to your childhood, it means that somewhere nearby is Hamleys Prague — a toy store of the world-famous British brand.
Hamleys in Prague is a true paradise for children and adults. When you cross the store's threshold, you are immediately immersed in a world of magic and fun. At the entrance, you will be greeted by friendly bears Hamley and Hattie — the permanent symbols of Hamleys. Remember to take a photo with them and only then go on a tour of the store.
Photo: facebook.com/hamleyscz
Families with children should visit this place because Hamleys is a store and an entertainment center. It often hosts various events, animation shows, and presentations of new products, during which children can conduct "crash tests" of the toys themselves.
Hamleys in Prague is not just a toy store but a place where children's dreams come true. A visit to Hamleys turns into a successful adventure of fun and magic.
Store history
Hamleys is a chain of toy stores created by a British man, William Hamley, who wanted to make all the world's children happy. William grew up in a poor family and dreamed of having many different toys. This ingenuous childhood desire helped Hamley write his name in history.
In 1760, William Hamley opened the first toy store, Hamleys, in London. But then it was called "Noah's Ark" — William wanted to collect the most popular toys like Noah gathered on his ark all the animals under one roof. The shelves overflowed with rag dolls, tin soldiers, rocking horses, and other modern toys.
The store was an incredible success and enjoyed great popularity. In 1938, Hamleys was even officially appointed as the toy supplier to the British royal family and remains so.
Today, Hamleys operates more than 110 stores around the world. In Prague, the Hamleys store appeared in 2016 and was opened in a three-story building of an old bank. It is the largest Hamleys store in Europe after the flagship in London.
Departments and play areas
Photo: facebook.com/hamleyscz
Hamleys in Prague is located in the historical center of the city. The building, decorated with brightly colored facades, is impossible not to notice; it immediately catches your eye. You will find yourself in a world of wonder and magic inside the store.
There's a lot to see on the shelves of Hamleys Prague! One of the leading children's stores offers a vast range of goods. There are toys for children of all ages, from babies to teenagers. You'll find classic toys such as dolls, puzzles, and constructors, as well as the latest and most popular toys, including robots, board games, interactive toys, racing cars, and much more. Hamleys also specializes in classic and older toys that may appeal to collectors and antique connoisseurs.
It is simply impossible to leave here empty-handed. But it is worth knowing that the store offers a wide selection of quality products from well-known brands, so the cost may be higher than in ordinary toy stores. However, high prices are justified by the quality and uniqueness of products. In addition, the store regularly offers discounts and promotions that make shopping here more affordable.
Of course, it would be unfairly to bring a child to such a place and not allow him to play with toys. The store's creators took this point into account. They opened a children's entertainment center on the territory, where young visitors can relax, have fun, and play with the most interesting Hamleys products. Popcorn, lollipops, sodas, etc., are also sold here.
The total area of the store is 6 000 m2, so there is more than enough space for entertainment. On the first floor is a gorgeous Venetian carousel, go-karting, and other interactive entertainment. On the second floor, there are departments for girls (with dolls, mermaids, accessories) and boys (with racing cars, superheroes, soldiers). Interestingly, you can go down a slide like a huge multicolored snake from the second floor to the first floor.
The prices of the rides vary. Many attractions are free (e.g., Snake Slide, Tree House, etc.). Some attractions (e.g., Papilonia Butterfly House) charge different entrance fees for children, students, and adults.
The most popular Hamleys attractions are:
1. The Venetian carousel
Photo: facebook.com/hamleyscz
Under cheerful music, kids rush around on wooden horses or in painted carriages. Carousel is an eternal classic of the entertainment world, so you should take a ride on such an attraction.
Cost:
- regular ticket — 80 CZK;
- with Hamley's card — 60 CZK.
2. Mirror maze
Photo: hamleys.cz
Crooked mirrors await guests right at the entrance, and after that, a tricky mirror maze with light and sound effects begins.
Cost:
- regular ticket — 150 CZK;
- with Hamley's card — 130 CZK;
- family admission (4 people) — CZK 450;
- family admission with Hamley's card — CZK 360.
3. Racing cars
Photo: facebook.com/hamleyscz
Karting is a favorite pastime not only for kids but also for adults. So why not race with the whole family?
Cost:
- regular ticket — 40 CZK;
- with Hamley's card — 30 CZK.
4. Excavators
The children are offered to use an excavator to dig to the bottom of the pool with more than a hundred colorful balls. Who knows what surprises will be dug up there?
Cost:
- regular ticket — 40 CZK;
- with Hamley's card — 30 CZK.
5. Mercuria Laser Game
Photo: facebook.com/hamleyscz
Spectacular shooting games using modern equipment and stylish uniforms. The active game will not only bring fun but also expand geographical knowledge. During the game, participants will visit places such as Asia, the USA, France, Antarctica, etc.
Entrance fee:
- adults — 200 CZK;
- children and students — 190 CZK;
- 10% discount for Hamleys cardholders.
6. Thematic games in VR goggles
Photo: facebook.com/hamleyscz
Visitors can fight with rivals in intergalactic battles (Blue Effect), take on the duties of a chef or architect (Fruit Ninja), go on a virtual walk through medieval Prague in search of a terrible golem (Golem VR), or go on a dangerous underground expedition (Arachnoid VR).
Cost: from 150 to 570 CZK, depending on the game chosen.
There is a manual in front of each attraction, indicating from what age children can use the attraction and what safety rules should be observed.
On the first floor, guests will find a cozy cafe where soft drinks, coffee, and desserts are available for ordering. Parents can relax here and keep an eye on their children, as the entertainment area is within their sight.
Services
Photo: facebook.com/hamleyscz
Entrance to Hamleys Prague, a world of endless fun, is free, but you must pay for some of the entertainment. If you plan to have fun and browse the assortment, it is recommended that you top up your Hamleys Card at the cash desk. The cost is deducted from your account via a built-in chip when you enter the attraction. You can pay for the card in both kroner and euros.
The store's infrastructure is equipped for customers with disabilities. There is a ramp at the main entrance to Na Przykop. The entrance for wheelchairs or baby strollers is also on Panska Street, where Guests can ring the bell to call the staff, who will be happy to provide any assistance needed.
The store also provides services for gift wrapping and organizing a children's party. There are master classes, performances of animators, clowns, and magicians. The planned holiday schedule is available on the official website or social networks.
There is no changing room in the store, but there are big red bags at the entrance where visitors can put their outerwear and other things.
In addition to Hamley's cards, you can buy gift certificates at the cash desk — any child will be happy to receive such a gift. You bet — to make a real journey into fantasy and magic!
Tips
- Tourists are recommended to get a Hamley's card, as it gives access to the store's attractions and provides a 15% discount on tickets to the Papilonia Butterfly House and the LEGO exhibit.
- Entry to the store with pets is prohibited. The exception is guide dogs, who are, of course, allowed to enter without restriction. Visitors can also bring small dogs in a carrier bag or their arms, but they cannot run around the store.
- Parents of toddlers can visit the store with strollers; there is a convenient ramp for children's transportation at the entrance.
- Hamleys Prague does not have a parking lot. Visitors can leave their car in paid areas in the neighboring streets (Jindřišská, Senovážná, Hibernská) or the secure parking lot in the Palladium shopping center.
