British Toys and Games

The History of British Toys and Games for Kids

British toy manufacturing has a rich history marked by innovation and craftsmanship. Here’s an in-depth look at popular British toys and games from the 19th and 20th centuries, detailing their origins, iconic products, and the shift in production away from the UK.

19th Century: Early British Toy Innovations

Dolls and Dollhouses
In the 19th century, British manufacturers like C. W. Faulkner & Co. created finely crafted dolls and dollhouses. Made from wood and porcelain, these toys were popular among Victorian children. Dollhouses, in particular, featured intricate designs reflecting the era’s craftsmanship. Production of such high-quality, handcrafted items continued into the early 20th century but eventually declined as mass production techniques took over.

Wooden Toys
British Toy Brands like J. Wright & Co. produced wooden toys, including pull-along animals, puzzles, and building blocks. Made from durable wood, these toys offered lasting play value. By the mid-20th century, demand for plastic toys and changes in manufacturing technology led to a decline in wooden toy production.

Early 20th Century: The Rise of Iconic British Brands

Meccano
Frank Hornby founded Meccano in 1901, revolutionising toy construction with its metal strip and gear sets. Produced in Liverpool, Meccano became known for its educational value and engineering concepts. Production continued in the UK until the early 1970s before shifting to other countries. Today, Meccano is produced under various international licenses.

Hornby
British toy brand, Hornby, established in 1901, gained fame for its model trains. The company, originally based in London, set standards for detailed and high-quality model railways. Production stayed in the UK until the early 2000s. Due to rising costs, Hornby shifted some manufacturing overseas but still offers British-made products, especially in its heritage ranges.

Matchbox
Lesney Products introduced Matchbox cars in 1953, known for their detailed die-cast models. Produced in London, Matchbox expanded its range significantly. In the 1980s, production moved to Macau and later to China as Lesney faced economic pressures and competition. Despite this shift, Matchbox remains a well-known brand in the toy industry.

Mid to Late 20th Century: Expanding Horizons

Airfix
British Toy brand Airfix, established in 1939, became famous for its detailed plastic model kits, including aircraft, vehicles, and figures. The company initially manufactured in the UK but moved production abroad by the late 1980s due to economic reasons. Despite this, Airfix retains its reputation for quality and British heritage, with some models such as Airfix Quick Build, still made in Britain. .

Triang
Triang, a key player in the UK toy industry during the 1950s and 1960s, offered toys such as model railways, cars, and dolls. Manufactured in the UK, Triang was known for its innovation and quality. The company ceased UK production in the early 1970s and was eventually absorbed into other brands. You can still discover vintage Triang Toys for sale on Etsy UK.

Why Many British Toys Are No Longer Made in the UK

Economic Factors
Rising labour costs and stricter regulations in the UK made manufacturing increasingly expensive. Many companies moved production to countries with lower labour costs to stay competitive.

Globalisation
Globalisation increased competition and expanded markets. To meet international demand and reduce production costs, many UK toy manufacturers shifted operations abroad.

Technological Advances
New manufacturing technologies and materials changed toy production. Companies sought locations with advanced facilities and lower costs to leverage these innovations.

The history of British toys and games reflects a journey from handcrafted excellence to mass production. Iconic brands like Meccano, Hornby, and Matchbox started in the UK, offering high-quality products that set industry standards. As economic and global factors changed, production moved overseas. Despite this shift, the legacy of these British toy manufacturers continues to influence the industry, highlighting the enduring impact of their innovative designs and craftsmanship.