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Home Retail News Retailer News

Hamleys transforms into a Galactic Playground this May Half Term

Free in store spectacles, interactive events and an all new Thames Adventure with Hamley Bear and friends

by Fiona Briggs
May 1, 2026
in Retailer News
Reading Time: 3 mins read

HamleysHamleys, the world’s finest toy store, is set to transform its iconic Regent Street flagship into a galaxy far, far away this May Half Term as it celebrates the launch of their new Disney area – a dedicated Marvel and Star Wars Fan Zone.

From Friday 23 May to Sunday 1 June 2025, families will be able to enjoy an action packed schedule across the Regent Street and Westfield stores with free daily events, immersive performances, character meet and greets and costume days such as “Dress as your favourite Alien Day” and a Jedi Training Academy, where young visitors can learn the ways of the Force.

On Sunday 24th May, Hamleys will also launch a major new partnership with Thames Rockets, London’s premier speedboat experience, introducing a brand new, story led river adventure: Hamley Bear and the Secret Treasure Mission.

Part high speed boat ride, part live theatre and part guided London tour, this 50 minute immersive experience is not a traditional sightseeing tour – it’s a special mission.

The adventure begins at London Eye Pier, where families are welcomed by the legendary Hamley Bear before boarding Rocket Rebel. From there, Princess and Pirate character guides lead guests into an interactive storyline with a special Hamleys treasure map, unfolding as the boat speeds past London’s most iconic landmarks, including the Tower of London and the Houses of Parliament.

Tickets go on sale this week, with the experience available for one day only on Saturday 24 May 2025. Link here. Images here

Throughout May Half Term, Hamleys Regent Street will host a spectacular line up of free in store experiences for children of all ages, alongside a series of special one off events.

Special Events:

  • Wednesday 28 May — Numberblocks Meet & Greet
    The much-loved CBeebies characters make a special appearance

  • Thursday 29 May — Dress as an Alien Day
    Children are invited to arrive in their best alien costumes for a day of interstellar fun.

Daily Programme Highlights:

  • Opening Ceremony with Hamley & Hattie, followed by the Imperial March Parade

  • Milky Way Meals with the Dragons Show, a live performance blending fantasy, food, and mythical creatures

  • Goliath Meet & Greet featuring Hamleys’ towering, Godzilla inspired giant character

  • Are You an Alien? An interactive experience inviting children to discover their inner extraterrestrial

  • Alien Bounty Hunting with the Hamleys Jedi, a hands-on mission transforming the store into a galactic playground

  • Jedi Training Academy where young visitors can learn the ways of the Force

  • Galactic Dance Medley Finale, a high energy daily celebration for the whole family

Hamleys Westfield will also host a series of special meet and greets and unique experiences throughout Half Term:

  • Saturday 23 May — Bluey Meet & Greet

  • Monday 25 May — Peppa Pig Meet & Greet

  • Tuesday 26 May — Numberblocks Meet & Greet

  • Wednesday 27 May — Razmatazz Dance Performance

  • Thursday 28 May — Planetarium Experience

  • Friday 29 May — Build-A-Bear mascots Bearamy & Pawlette Meet & Greet

  • Friday 30 May — Character appearances including Darth Vader, Chewbacca, Stormtroopers and The Mandalorian

  • Saturday 31 May — LEGO Make & Take Experience

Share This Article

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