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Merrythought

Today Merrythought remains a 5th generation run company, that for 80 years has been hand making toys in England and is still responsible for some of “Britain’s finest soft toys”.

The Merrythought Story

Established in 1930 in Ironbridge, Shropshire by two spinning mill owners W.G. Holmes and G.H. Laxton, with the assistance of C.J.Rendell (then Production Chief at Chad Valley) and A.C. Janisch (then Head of Sales at J.K. Farnell), Merrythought was born. Here, they had the talent, of two established and experienced business men in the soft toy industry plus the experience and the know-how to weave and create the highest quality mohair for these soft toys.

They were also joined at this time by a designer from Chad Valley, a truly remarkable woman called Florence Attwood. (Florence was a deaf – mute and had attended school with the daughter of C.J. Rendell). Using her talent she was able to translate artists drawings into patterns and single handedly designed all 32 patterns for Merrythougts Premier line in 1930. Up until her death in 1949, she was still Chief Designer, and some of her original patterns are still in use today.

After creating the London Gold Range, The Cheekies and the Punkies, and 74 years after first opening their doors, Merrythought closed in 2006. Due to public demand they re-opened again in 2007, albeit on a smaller scale. Focusing on both traditional and collectable teddy bears.

Today Merrythought remains a 5th generation run company, that for 80 years has been hand making toys in England, and is still responsible, for some of “Britain’s finest soft toys”

It’s great to be eccentric and British – That’s Merrythought down to a T. From their beautiful classic range to their fun and wacky ‘Cheeky’ bears, right up to their ‘Punkies’. Design is everything!

When considering buying Merrythought toys, the expanded benefits and appeal become even more evident. Merrythought toys offer a unique blend of playfulness and sophistication, making them ideal companions for children of all ages. The whimsical designs, vibrant colors, and soft textures stimulate a child’s imagination and creativity, encouraging hours of imaginative play and storytelling.

Merrythought’s commitment to using premium, child-safe materials ensures that parents can feel confident in providing their little ones with these beloved plush toys. The attention to safety standards and durability means that Merrythought toys can withstand the rigors of playtime, providing lasting enjoyment and becoming cherished childhood friends.

For collectors, Merrythought toys hold a significant place in the world of teddy bear enthusiasts and plush toy aficionados. Their limited-edition releases and vintage collections make them highly sought-after and valuable additions to any collection. Whether starting a new collection or expanding an existing one, Merrythought toys bring a touch of elegance and heritage to any display.

Moreover, purchasing Merrythought toys supports a company with a rich history and a dedication to preserving the tradition of handcrafted plush toys. By investing in Merrythought products, buyers contribute to the continuation of a time-honored craft, ensuring that future generations can experience the joy and magic of these exceptional toys.

In summary, buying Merrythought toys offers a myriad of benefits, from inspiring creativity and imaginative play in children to being cherished keepsakes for collectors. With a focus on quality, safety, and craftsmanship,

Merrythought toys are more than just plush toys – they become symbols of love, joy, and enduring memories, making them a truly special addition to any family or collection.

World of Bears stocks the Merrythought Range of Collectibles of traditional teddy bears, some jointed, musical and with growlers

What are our customers saying?

The service was excellent ,The goods were well packed and with great care , package arrived earlier than said , regular e-mail updates on the status of the package.

Ian Carson
Verified Customer

Excellent service as ever. Very personal service. Feel like I have known Elaine for years and count her amongst my friends.

Trusted Customer
Verified Customer

My son hasn't spotted the difference from the one he lost. Excellent quality.

Jez Grimwood
Verified Customer

Great service, very friendly response to emails. Very happy! Thanks xx

Cara Robson
Verified Customer

I would use World of Bears again as their service was both efficient and reliable, and the item of excellent quality. I was both pleased and impressed.

Jennifer Kerlin
Verified Customer

Shop with confidence

Being established since 1999 in Somersets Cheddar Gorge and County Town of Taunton. The Gorge Bear Co and World of Bears are renowned for being the worlds best and biggest teddy bear shop most people will have ever visited.

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Anuska Venter
Verified Customer

Will definitely order from World of Bears again!

Don Gray
Verified Customer

Good service would use again

Trusted Customer
Verified Customer

Pat Brown
Verified Customer

Bought as a christening gift. Parents were thrilled. Elder child wanted to swop his for this one.

Trusted Customer
Verified Customer

Our latest adoptees (a Gund Mini Brown Teddy and a Gund Mini Manni Teddy) arrived the very next day, and after a little rest to get over their journey, they embarked on a much longer journey down to Tuscany, where they now live with lots of other bear friends, and are much loved, and are settling in very well.We shall be sure to adopt from the World of Bears again!C and G, Florence.

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