Last updated: 30 August 2024

Next review: 2 March 2025

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Walthamstow Toy Library is an educational charity that has been running in our borough for 48 years. It was set up by a group of health visitors who were concerned that children in the community didn't have access to toys. Today, we have thousands of high quality, 

  • educational toys
  • books
  • puzzles 

and games that can be loaned for as little as £1 for two weeks. 

An annual membership fee applies or is free for families on low or no income. We also accept donations. They must be in excellent condition, with all the pieces intact. No soft toys. 

As well as toys, we have

  • children's books
  • parenting books
  • event equipment e.g. soft play.

Opening times 

Monday to Friday 9.30am to 3.30pm or by appointment 

Family Hubs

The Family Hubs programme provides a wide range of information, activities and services in your local area including health, learning and play activities, childcare, family support, employment support, housing advice, money and benefits advice and much more. 

We know that all families need support from time to time to look after their well-being and help their babies and children thrive. 

Services provided at Walthamstow Toy Library and Play Centre as part of the Family Hubs programme are in partnership with:

Best Start in Life

Family Hub activities for children aged 0 to 5 are part of Best Start in Life, a government-funded programme supporting Waltham Forest's parents and carers with their children’s growth.

You can find Best Start in Life services in all four Family Hubs and other community spaces throughout every neighbourhood in the borough.

The following provision can be found at Walthamstow Toy Library and Play Centre:

Explore sessions on our Family Hub events page