John Lewis and a panel of child testers have predicted what they think will be the year’s top toys for Christmas 2021.

John Lewis enlisted the help of five children under 12 to review the toys, and the final top ten toys predicted to be top sellers this year have been unveiled.

A host of classic favourites made the shortlist, although it is noticeable that several of the lines selected are exclusive to John Lewis. These include a retro Scalextric set given a modern twist with Batman vs Superman branding, as well as items such as the FSC Wooden Waitrose Supermarket. Five of the top toys were given 10/10 by the testing panel, including the Lego Elf Clubhouse, Scalextric and Space Puzzle.

One of the testers, Daisy, age nine, said: “The Scalextric was my favourite game. I think it would be fun to play with my mum and dad and try to beat them. It’s definitely going on my Christmas list this year.”

Rachael Larkman, Toy Buyer added: “This year we’ve seen a huge surge in the popularity of traditional toys and games that can be enjoyed by the whole family. Sales of construction toys and puzzles such as Lego have risen 50% in the last 12 months, and we predict this trend will continue for Christmas 2021. The selection of top toys chosen by our panel of toy testers includes toys suitable for all ages. From ‘my first’ toys to the exclusive Scalextric which we are predicting to be the toy of the season, there’s a great variety that will guarantee excitement on Christmas day.”

Despite consumers being urged to shop early this year to avoid stock shortages, shoppers are not able to buy most of the list just yet.

The John Lewis Top Ten Toys for Christmas 2021 are:

Scalextric Batman vs Superman, Exclusive to John Lewis, (Available September)

Lego Elf Clubhouse, (Available now)

John Lewis FSC Wooden My 1st Train Set, (Available September)

Space Puzzle Ravensburger (Available September)

John Lewis FSC Wooden Waitrose Supermarket, (Available September)

Gravi Pro Starter Extreme, Exclusive to John Lewis, (Available September)

Kaloo My first Doll, (Available September)

Harry Potter Games Compendium (Available September)

Tonies Soft Cuddly Friends – Hoppie Rabbit Audio Play, (Available September)

Secret garden book, (Available September)