Children's shopping (inc shoes) in central London - recommendations?

[Tangle]

I'm hoping to get into London on Friday to meet up with DH. I think DD (21 months) needs some new shoes, or we could do some children's Xmas shopping (although I have reservations on that one - not so fond of mad crowds!)

We're going to be in W1 - can anyone recommed a good children's shoe shop anywhere nearby (I won't go to Clark's after I worked there, and I'm not a fan of stiff shoes for small children - somewhere with a good range of brands would be favourite), or does anyone have any idea how busy Hamley's would be?

Or any other suggestions.

thanks

Hamleys on Friday?

Crazed laugh.

Sorry to not be helpful but DON'T DO IT.

That's OK - it was my gut feel as well I just haven't been for years and now I've got DD it seemed like the perfect excuse...

Maybe we'll stick to shoes. Seems a shame to sit on public transport for a couple of hours and then just go home again...

I'm sorry but surely you can brave the crowd with your DD just for a bit fun? I've been to Hamleys pre-christmas and ok, it's a bit mad but it's not a free-for-all and it's got a magical atmosphere, surely it's worth taking a peep with your DD. If it's really bad, just leave but I do think not even attempting to go while you are in the area is a waste IMO!

Actually getting down Regent Street to Hamleys is a challenge at this time of year...but I suppose if you have a pushcahir you could use it to ram your way through.

Igloo are the best place I've found for shoes (and kids clothes, toys etc) - there is one on St Johns Road High Street but isnt really central (though will be much less packed than Oxford Street/Regent Street).

Have a lovely day on Friday.

ps you could always try john lewis - not huge selection there but in oxford st area