WEBBS Garden Centres are celebrating the launch of their brand new toy emporium.
Families from across the region flocked to the official opening of the new space at the flagship Wychbold site to explore a world of storytelling, creativity, and imaginative play.
The Toy Emporium has been designed as more than just a shopping space – it is inspired by children’s stories, such as Willy Wonka, Rapunzel, Mary Poppins and James and the Giant Peach.
The department features interactive play zones, dress-up areas, and imaginative corners which brought magic among the first visitors. Children enjoyed the giant rocket, castle, tree nook, and
Willy Wonka-style wall, while the ‘Mirror, Mirror on the Wall’ area encouraged little ones to try on costumes inspired by Snow White.
Visitors were delighted to discover an extensive range of toys from LEGO, Jellycat, Brio, and other fan favourites including Paw Patrol, Pokémon, Disney Stitch, Hot Wheels, and Tonies.
The Emporium combines educational, sustainable, and trending toys, encouraging creativity, problem-solving and imaginative play across all age groups.
Store manager Nick Forde said: “It’s been an incredible first day – the excitement has been palpable, with visitors queuing before the doors even opened at 9am.
“Families turned out in fantastic numbers and loved exploring the new space and the wide range of toys on offer.
“Children were especially captivated by the live demonstrations and interactive features, including the tree nook and space rocket.
“Great Pretenders, Crazy Aarons and plush soft toys proved instant hits, and toys that encourage creative play have also been hugely popular.
“There’s something to delight every child and seeing the mix and variety across the department has been wonderful to see.”
He added the visitors show the toy emporium was already proving extremely popular and was second only to the Christmas department which was also drawing in the crowds.
Sarah Houghton, mum of Isla, 10, and Isabella, four, added they all had a fantastic time.
“Isla loved the sensory toys, especially Crazy Aaron’s Thinking Putty, as well as the soft plush toys, and was captivated by the demos and slime. Isabella loved everything – from princess dresses from Great Pretenders to Magik Snow and scooters.
“It’s such a treat for children – we all left with huge smiles.”
The opening day also featured live demonstrations and hands-on experiences.
People can visit the toy emporium at Webbs in Wychbold in the run up to – and during – the festive season.
