Our Story

Ooh look! A proper toyshop.

The Toybox is an independent, family-run toy shop with two homes: our first shop on the High Street in Ironbridge, in the heart of the Ironbridge Gorge World Heritage Site, and our second on the High Street in Shrewsbury, behind the bright teal shopfront.

A family affair

The Toybox is run by Vonny and her husband Adrian, with plenty of help from the family. Adrian keeps the numbers and the paperwork in order, and is never happier than when he's fixing things in the shop. Gemma takes care of our photos and Instagram. Ellie, a primary school teacher, is our early years expert, and every new idea gets run past her before it reaches the shelves. Will is a real showman on the shop floor.

With seven children, a son-in-law and a growing band of grandchildren, family life is full of fun and laughter (most of the time!), and it's shaped everything about how we run The Toybox.

What we believe

Bringing up a big family taught us a few things: bedtime stories are a must, playing outside and getting messy is vital, and the best toys spark imagination and creativity instead of doing all the work. Above all, the freedom to play and express yourself is one of the most important gifts you can give a child.

We don't think children need lots of toys. But the ones you choose should be made to last, be shared and passed on, and be made ethically and sustainably. We're not quite plastic-free, but with the help of some very earth-conscious suppliers we're heading that way. If a toy is fun, well made and carries a good, positive message, it makes the cut.

Come and explore

Our shops are made for exploring. Children and grown-ups are welcome to take their time, try things out and play, and our team knows the shelves well enough to help you find exactly the right present. You'll find favourites like Maileg, Tonies, Yoto, Le Toy Van, Tender Leaf, Brio and Connetix, alongside books, crafts and games.

In 2026 we were shortlisted for Best Independent Retailer in the Progressive Preschool Awards, which meant the world to us. Thank you to every customer who has visited, played and shopped with us.

We'd love to see you soon.

Vonny, Adrian and the Toybox team