With the spirit of giving fills the air, and as shoppers across the UK adopt the annual festive frenzy, let us remind ourselves what presents have dominated Christmas past. Over the decades, certain gifts have captured the imagination of the public and become iconic must-haves. From classic toys to tech gadgets, these best-sellers tell the story of changing trends and enduring favourites. Here, we look at the top 50 best-selling Christmas gifts in the UK of all time.
1. Rubik’s Cube
The Rubik’s Cube, introduced in the 1980s, has remained a perennial favourite. Its combination of simplicity and challenge captured the hearts of millions and continues to be a top seller during the festive season.
2. Monopoly
A timeless board game, Monopoly has been a family Christmas staple for decades. Special editions, including UK-centric versions, have only enhanced its popularity.
3. LEGO Sets
LEGO has been a consistent Christmas best-seller, with themed sets like Star Wars, Harry Potter, and classic City designs appealing to children and adults alike.
4. Barbie Dolls
Since her debut in 1959, Barbie has dominated wish lists. Holiday editions, in particular, are highly sought after during Christmas.
5. Scalextric
This iconic slot car racing set became a Christmas hit in the 1960s and 1970s, and it’s still cherished by collectors and young enthusiasts.
6. Apple iPhones
The iPhone has consistently topped Christmas sales charts since its launch, combining sleek design with cutting-edge technology.
7. PlayStation Consoles
From the original PlayStation in the 1990s to the PS5, Sony’s gaming consoles have been Christmas sensations.
8. Nintendo Game Boy
Released in 1989, the Game Boy revolutionised handheld gaming and became a holiday phenomenon.
9. Star Wars Action Figures
Star Wars merchandise has dominated Christmas sales since the original film’s release in 1977, with action figures being a particular highlight.
10. Amazon Echo (Alexa)
Smart home devices like the Amazon Echo have become modern Christmas essentials, making them some of the UK’s best-selling gifts.
11. Meccano Sets
A classic construction toy, Meccano has sparked creativity for over a century, peaking during the mid-20th century.
12. Harry Potter Books
J.K. Rowling’s magical series has been a Christmas gift favourite since the late 1990s.
13. Cabbage Patch Kids
These unique dolls caused a shopping frenzy in the 1980s and remain nostalgic favourites.
14. Xbox Consoles
Microsoft’s Xbox consoles have been hugely popular since the early 2000s, especially during Christmas.
15. Kindle E-Readers
The Kindle revolutionised reading and became a Christmas must-have for book lovers.
16. Hot Wheels
Since the 1960s, these miniature cars have zoomed into stockings and under trees across the UK.
17. Furbies
These interactive toys created a craze in the late 1990s and early 2000s.
18. iPads
Apple’s tablet has been a Christmas bestseller since its release in 2010, appealing to tech-savvy users of all ages.
19. Frozen Dolls
Disney’s Frozen sparked a merchandising bonanza, with Elsa and Anna dolls topping Christmas lists.
20. The Beatles Albums
During the 1960s, albums by The Beatles were must-have gifts, marking a golden age of music.
21. Black & Decker Workmate
This versatile workbench became a popular gift for DIY enthusiasts in the 1970s.
22. Paddington Bear Toys
Paddington Bear has been a beloved figure since the 1950s, with toys and merchandise selling briskly every Christmas.
23. Matchbox Cars
Like Hot Wheels, Matchbox cars have been miniature hits for decades.
24. Fitness Trackers (Fitbit)
In the age of health-conscious living, fitness trackers have become thoughtful and popular Christmas gifts.
25. Hatchimals
These hatching toy creatures caused a sensation in the 2010s and sold out rapidly during Christmas.
26. Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer
This high-tech hair dryer is a luxury gift that has become a sought-after Christmas item.
27. Action Man
The UK’s answer to G.I. Joe, Action Man, has been a Christmas icon since the 1960s.
28. Slinky
This simple but fascinating toy became a Christmas favourite in the mid-20th century.
29. Care Bears
These colourful and cuddly characters captured the hearts of children in the 1980s.
30. Polaroid Cameras
Instant photography was a huge Christmas trend in the 1970s and 1980s, thanks to Polaroid.
31. Nerf Guns
Nerf blasters have been Christmas favourites for decades, offering fun for kids and families.
32. Beanie Babies
These collectible plush toys were a massive hit in the 1990s.
33. Bikes
Bicycles have always been a classic Christmas gift, from Raleigh Choppers in the 1970s to today’s mountain and e-bikes.
34. Tamagotchi
The digital pet phenomenon of the 1990s made Tamagotchis an unforgettable Christmas craze.
35. Electric Scooters
Modern electric scooters have become a high-demand item for kids and teens.
36. Game of Thrones Box Sets
The fantasy series’ DVD and Blu-ray collections were bestsellers during its run.
37. Twister
This classic party game has been twisting its way into Christmas celebrations since the 1960s.
38. Perfumes
Fragrances, especially designer ones, have consistently ranked among the top Christmas gifts.
39. Thomas the Tank Engine Toys
This beloved train character has been a hit with children for generations.
40. Smartwatches
From Apple Watches to Garmin devices, smartwatches are a modern Christmas favourite.
41. Remote Control Cars
RC cars have thrilled children and adults alike, making them enduringly popular.
42. Trivial Pursuit
This trivia game was a sensation in the 1980s and remains a family favourite.
43. Pop Vinyl Figures
Collectible and fun, Pop Vinyls have become popular Christmas gifts for fans of movies, TV shows, and games.
44. Jigsaw Puzzles
Themed and intricate jigsaw puzzles have made a strong comeback as Christmas gifts.
45. Crock-Pots
Slow cookers became a practical and popular Christmas gift during the 1970s and remain so today.
46. Mini Fridges
A quirky but useful gift, mini fridges have found their way into many UK homes at Christmas.
47. Playmobil Sets
Playmobil toys, known for their attention to detail, have been a holiday hit for decades.
48. Tablets (Samsung, Lenovo)
Affordable alternatives to iPads, these tablets are often top sellers during Christmas.
49. Magic: The Gathering Cards
This collectible card game is a favourite among gaming enthusiasts, especially during the festive season.
50. Vinyl Record Players
With the resurgence of vinyl, turntables have become nostalgic yet trendy Christmas gifts.
How many of these gifts have you given or received? Do you still have some of them? What has become of the ones you no longer have?
Let us know.
