Tired of seeing the same mass-produced toys in all the big stores? If you’re shopping for Christmas presents or a special birthday gift, skip the chain stores and find a truly unique kids gift by shopping small and local. You’ll not only get better customer service but also the satisfaction of knowing you’re directly investing in the community!
We’ve rounded up the best local toy shops, bookstores and gift shops in Newcastle, Lake Macquarie & the Hunter, all of which offer a carefully curated selection of creative, educational, and sustainable toys and books.
Know another great local toy and gift shop? Let us know and we’ll add it to the list.
Betty Loves Book
Shop for new books, second hand books, gifts, stationery and art at this unique and cosy bookshop located at The Station in Newcastle. They have a great kid’s nook and a large selection of carefully curated kid’s books, including many local authors and illustrators.
Location: Shop 1a/110 Scott Street, Newcastle
Email: betty_lovesbooks@hotmail.com
Website
Blackbird Corner
Blackbird Corner is a charming small business on Darby Street, owned by Nici, Sean and Pepper the dog. Their children’s line includes flash cards, books, games, awesome Newcastle-themed shirts by Anorak and quirky socks by Red Parka. A selection of their stock is available online, but nothing beats browsing their gorgeous bricks and mortar shop in person!
Location: 74 Darby Street, Cooks Hill
Email: blackbirdcorner@yahoo.com.au
Website
Creative Village Newcastle
An artist-run collective, all items at Creative Village are handmade and designed by local Newcastle and Hunter area artists, ensuring you are buying a truly unique, bespoke gift. Find them in Charlestown Square, next to the Greater Bank and the Newcastle Perm, or shop online, for kids books, wearables, wall art, and craft kits.
Location: Ground level, Charlestown Square
Phone: 0481 160 115
Website
Frontline Hobbies
Since 1978, Frontline Hobbies has been the ultimate store of dreams for Novocastrians big and small. Best known for their massive collection of radio control vehicles and model railway kits, parts, and accessories, they also stock an impressive range of diecast models, hobby supplies, games, puzzles, LEGO, and much more.
Location: 5 Lang Road, Broadmeadow
Phone: 1300 446 229
Website
Full Circle Collective
Check out the incredible Full Circle Collective Shop in Hunter Street, Newcastle to support sustainability while you gift. Their beautiful collection by Down2Earth Co Goods features gifts kids will love, including craft kits and wall art.
Location: 437 Hunter Street, Newcastle
Phone:
Website
Little Journeys
As the sister store to Zebra Finch, Little Journeys is a wonderful find located right inside the Nextra Newsagency at Marketown, Newcastle West. Head to the back of the store, and you’ll discover a massive and enchanting kids’ retail space! It’s absolutely packed with gifts for children aged 2 to 12, including soft cuddly toys, puzzles, books, engaging activity packs, crafts, and much more.
Location: Shop 10, Nextra Newsagency, Marketown, Newcastle West
Phone: (02) 4929 5345 (Marketown)
Website
MacLean’s Book Sellers
A true Newy icon, MacLean’s Booksellers is Newcastle’s beloved independent bookshop, proudly owned and run by local resident Kathy Sloss. MacLean’s stock a huge range of children’s books, from classic picture books and activity books to fiction, non-fiction, and graphic novels. You can choose the ideal book or grab a gift voucher so your little reader can pick their own. Best of all, they make gifting easy with free gift wrapping available all year round!
Location: 69 Beaumont Street, Hamilton
Phone: (02) 4969 2525
Website
Merewether Atelier
Merewether Atelier, open Wednesday to Sunday, offers a curated selection of rare finds from local makers and traders. Their extensive children’s collection includes unique books, clothing, bags, accessories, and a lovely variety of wooden toys. Popular brands like Living Textiles and Oh Flossy make perfect gifts for kids. They also have a delightful newborn range.
Location: 63 Railway Street, Merewether
Phone: (02) 4031 6868
Website
Morpeth Teddy Bears
As the saying at Morpeth Teddy Bears goes, “There’s no better way to show you care, than with the gift of a teddy bear.” They offer a vast selection ranging from cuddly FLATOUTbears and classic plush toys to high-end collectibles like Charlie Bear’s Mohair Bears and Steiff Bears. For a truly unique gift, check out their beautiful Matryoshka Dolls. Situated in the Campbells Store Gift Gallery, the shop provides many other gift alternatives if you’re looking for something besides a teddy.
Location: 175 Swan Street, Morpeth
Phone: (02) 4933 1407
Website
Newcastle Model Auto Sports and Hobbies
A good place to shop for a gift for older kids and teens, Newcastle Model Auto Sports and Hobbies is an expert hobby store for remote-controlled vehicles, catering to both beginners and advanced enthusiasts. Backed by 30+ years of experience, they offer full after-sale service and reliable in-house repairs for every product sold, ensuring you have a positive experience. They also carry a large stock of various model kits.
Location: Shop 10, Hilltop Plaza, Charlestown
Phone: (02) 4965 5002
Website
The Spinning Top Toy Store
A local favourite for over 25 years, the independently owned Spinning Top Toy Store is your destination for classic, quality toys from around the globe. They feature unique brands from Germany, France, and the USA, alongside popular brands like Micro Scooters, Mobilo, and Magblox. Stocking everything from science and craft kits to toys for all ages and sensory needs, you’re sure to find a gift or two here.
Location: 261 Brunker Road, Adamstown
Phone: (02) 4952 1822
Website
Zebra Finch
Zebra Finch are a Newcastle, family-owned business specialising in gifts, homewares, clothing and kids items. Find them in two great locations – Marketown Shopping Centre and Westfield Kotara. They stock a huge range of Jellycat plush, baby gifts, and other quality products from top brands like Tiger Tribe, Miniland, The Little Potion Co, and more.
Location: Shop 14 Marketown Shopping Centre, Newcastle West & Shop 2017, Level 2 Westfield Kotara
Phone: (02) 4929 5345 (Marketown), (02) 4956 2553 (Westfield)
Website
Online options
Alex and Moo
Alex and Moo is a local, family-owned, online store dedicated to sourcing high-quality, sustainable products. Browse their curated collection of wooden and soft toys, educational kits, dress-ups, puzzles, books, kids’ tableware and more. They also offer free local pick-up to Newcastle residents!
Location: Online store
Phone: 0422 544 659
Website
Beep Bells
Inspire adventure with a hand-painted bicycle bell from local Newcastle company, Beep! Perfect for any little person with a passion for wheels. Whether they ride a scooter or bike, a fun, funky, retro bell is guaranteed to make them the envy of the playground. With new additions like colourful streamers, wicker baskets, and handlebar bags now in the Beep collection, the only challenge will be choosing which amazing item to gift!
Location: Online store
Email: hello@beepbells.com
Website
Our Little Darlings
Our Little Darlings is more than just an online shop; it’s a curated experience founded by local Newcastle mother and Early Childhood Teacher, Tracey. Every product is carefully considered and thoughtfully chosen to inspire children to learn through play. It’s the perfect place to shop for bespoke brands that you won’t find in the large chain stores. They offer free delivery for Newcastle and surrounds or pickup from New Lambton.
Location: Online store
Email: hello@ourlittledarlings.com.au
Website
Spotto Books
Looking for a screen-free gift that promotes social interaction and family bonding? You can’t go past a Spotto Book! Designed by Lake Mac local, Outback Jess, Spotto Books make the perfect gift for little travelers. Heading away on a trip? Choose the popular Big Things Spotto Book or one of their specific destination books. For long car trips, bust boredom with options like the Classic, Road Signs, or Transport editions. If you can’t decide, grab the FULL Set to keep kids happily occupied for hours on end!
Location: Online store
Phone: 0427 842 987
Website
To discover even more unique, handcrafted, and beautiful gifts, check out our region’s vibrant market scene. It’s a great way to meet the makers directly and support local creative businesses. Read our Guide to the Best Markets in Newcastle, Lake Macquarie & Hunter.
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