As a parent-to-be, the impending Christmas season is on the horizon with all its jingle bells. If you’re looking to give unique gifts to your kids who are fans of gaming franchises like Mario, Zelda, and Animal Crossing, consider a visit to Europe’s first Nintendo pop-up store in London’s Westfield shopping centre, Shepherd’s Bush.
Traditionally, Nintendo stores were only found in Japan or the US, with locations in Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, New York, and San Francisco. My husband and I spent hours exploring the first two stores during our honeymoon in Asia, and now, months later and expecting our first child, I find myself back at a Nintendo store, this time with a baby in mind.
The London pop-up store may not be as large as the ones in Japan, but it still offers a good selection of merchandise. My time there flew by as I browsed through the products.
All Nintendo stores carry exclusive items that can’t always be purchased online. So, if you want to impress your parent friends or indulge in some geeky merchandise for your kids, the Nintendo store is the place to be. Here’s a look at what I purchased during my visit:
What I bought at a mum-to-be at the London Nintendo pop-up store
During my visit, I bought a total of five items. While some of them were pricier than non-branded alternatives, the unique designs and quality made them worth it. As I prepare for the arrival of my first child, I got creative with my shopping and bought items for both Baby Toad (our baby’s nickname) and us as parents.
Animal Crossing Townscape Face Towel – £12.99
This adorable face towel featuring characters and buildings from Animal Crossing: New Horizons was a must-have for me. Its pastel colors and familiar designs make it a charming addition to our collection of baby essentials.
Soft, lightweight, and generously sized, this towel is a perfect blend of style and functionality. If you’re visiting the store in person, I highly recommend picking one up.
Super Mario Block Storage Box – £17.99
Storage is always a challenge, especially with kids’ toys. This Mario-themed storage box not only helps keep things organized but also adds a fun touch to the room. The brick-style design is subtle yet nerdy, appealing to fans of the game.
With its ample size and foldable feature, this storage box is suitable for children of all ages. It’s a practical yet playful addition to any room.
Sleeping Kirby toy – £16.99
This squishy Kirby toy caught my eye, and I couldn’t resist adding it to our collection. While it’s recommended for ages 3+, it serves as a cute nursery decoration until then. The soft material and cute design make it a charming addition to any child’s room.
The store offers a variety of other toys, including rare items like Marshsal from Animal Crossing and a Korok bag. Each item is unique and appealing to different age groups.
Tom Nook’s Aloha Shirt from Animal Crossing: New Horizons – £26.99
This Aloha shirt featuring the ACNH leaf print was a practical purchase for me as a mom-to-be. Its oversized fit and button-down style make it comfortable for lounging around the house, especially during the later stages of pregnancy and postpartum.
Soft, breathable, and breastfeeding-friendly, this shirt combines comfort with style. It’s a versatile piece that can be worn during and after pregnancy.
Foldable Nintendo Tote Bag – £3.99
For budget-conscious shoppers, this foldable tote bag is a practical and affordable choice. Perfect for quick trips to the store or outings, this bag is both functional and stylish.
Featuring the iconic Nintendo red color and London logo, this tote bag is a limited-edition item that’s both practical and collectible. It’s a handy accessory that you’ll find yourself using frequently.
With my purchases, I received a large cardboard bag and a free 2025 magazine from Nintendo. The store offers a wide range of gifts for kids of all ages, from clothing and accessories to toys and collectibles.
Other great gifts for kids at the London Nintendo pop-up store
If you’re looking for gifts for older kids, the store has a variety of options to choose from. From clothing and accessories to plushies and gaming merchandise, there’s something for every young Nintendo fan.
Stocking fillers like luggage tags, pencil cases, and playing cards are available, along with plushies, cushions, and blankets for home decor. The store also offers physical game cards, Switch accessories, and Amiibos for collectors.
How can I visit London’s Nintendo pop-up store?
The Nintendo pop-up store is open from 22 October 2025 to 16 November 2025 at Shepherd’s Bush Westfield. Tickets for the first week are sold out, but you can queue for entry starting from 27 October 2025.
Located opposite the Lego Store on the ground floor, the store is easily accessible from Shepherd’s Bush Market tube station. Whether you’re looking for unique gifts or just want to explore the world of Nintendo, the pop-up store is a must-visit for fans of all ages.
