Toys 'R' Us is set to make a return in Southampton and Fareham.

The iconic toy brand is set to open stores inside two WHSmith shops in Hampshire between September 28 and Christmas.

Owned by WHP Global, it has teamed up with WHSmith to launch a series of Toys 'R' Us shop-in-shops across the country. 

After opening dozens of shop-in-shops last year, the next round of Toys 'R' Us openings from WHSmith will start on Saturday, September 28, with Southampton being one of the first new stores to open their doors.

The date for the opening of Fareham's store is yet to be confirmed.

The new stores will bring a wide range of the latest toys and games to more families and customers, giving them more reasons to visit and shop with WHSmith during a key time of the year for high street retailers.

In Southampton, the Toys 'R' Us building on Western Esplanade has sat derelict since the retailer's collapse in 2018. 

In 2022, WHSmith confirmed that they would launch a small-scale trial of Toys ‘R’ Us areas in nine of its high street stores early next year.

Sean Toal, managing director WHSmith said: “Nearly 40 years ago Toys R Us first came to the UK, and we take great pride in being the steward of this much-loved brand in the UK.

"We’ve had queues around the block for many openings in the last year which tells you just how much people are loving seeing Toys R Us back again.

"But our job isn’t done yet, and I’m pleased to be bringing the magic of Toys R Us to even more customers over the coming months ready for the best time of year – Christmas.”

WHSmith has said it will continue to open an average of three Toys R Us shop-in-shops every week in the build up to Christmas.

Michelle Phillips, WHSmith and Toys 'R' Us toys & games buying manager said: “In Toys R Us we offer so many different brands and have a wide range of choice for the whole family.

"We’re expecting Squishmallows to top the list of our bestselling toys this Christmas because we know they are really popular.

"Ladbaby have also just released a hilarious new game dedicated to their sausage roll obsession likely to be a family favourite. 

"Stocks are limited so make sure you pick them up from our stores as soon as you can.”