From adventure playgrounds and street parties to swimming pools, seaside trips, holiday schemes and after-school clubs, these nostalgic photographs capture how children across the region spent their free time between the 1960s and 1980s.
Before screens and smartphones filled our days, entertainment often meant climbing frames, rope swings, community centres, local parks and making your own fun with friends. Whether it was a trip to Blackpool, a summer afternoon at the pool, a creative activity at a youth club or simply exploring the playground, these were the moments that shaped childhood memories.
These atmospheric pictures from our archives are sure to transport you back - perhaps reminding you of the games you played, the places you visited, or even the childhood adventures your own parents remember.
Take a trip down memory lane, enjoy browsing the gallery, and share your favourite memories in the comments. What do you remember most about growing up in the 1960s, 70s and 80s?
Remember Wolverhampton market days? Take a nostalgic trip through our gallery here.
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9. Bay City Rollers, Wolverhampton Civic Hall, 1975
Bay City Rollers fever sweeps Wolverhampton Civic Hall in 1975, as an emotional fan is comforted by friends and a police officer after the show. The Scottish pop sensations had crowds of young fans screaming, cheering and turning concerts into unforgettable events. Do you remember the excitement of seeing your favourite band live, collecting posters or sharing the latest music craze with your friends? | Express & Star archive
10. Bay City Rollers, Wolverhampton Civic Hall, 1975
Another glimpse of Bay City Rollers fever at Wolverhampton Civic Hall in 1975 shows just how intense the excitement became. This time, a fan is pictured being supported by the St John Ambulance Brigade after the show. With crowds screaming and emotions running high, the Scottish pop sensations created memories that lasted a lifetime. | Express & Star archive
11. Caldmore Adventure Playground, 1975
Youngsters make the most of the adventure playground in Caldmore, Walsall, in 1975. With old tyres, rope swings and a sturdy wooden frame, the simplest equipment inspired hours of laughter, daring and make-believe. Do you remember playgrounds like this, where imagination did the hard work and you stayed out until it was time to go home? | Express & Star archive
12. Caldmore Adventure Playground, 1975
Michael Greenfield gets ready to swing into action at Caldmore Adventure Playground, Walsall, in 1975, as his friends watch on. With little more than a rope, a bit of bravery and plenty of imagination, the playground provided endless entertainment. | Express & Star archive