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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25. Tettenhall Pool, 1981
A perfect summer scene at Tettenhall Pool in August 1981, as James Goddard enjoys an ice cream while still in the water alongside his sisters Mandy (left) and Jane. With sunshine overhead and a cool swim to enjoy, it captures the simple pleasures of a childhood summer. Do you remember long days at the local pool, splashing about with friends and waiting for that much-loved ice cream treat? | Picture: Express & Star
26. Fire Safety Competition, 1982
Young fire safety champions celebrate their achievements in 1982 after taking part in a competition designed to test their knowledge and awareness. Barbara Simpson from Albright High School in Oldbury claimed first place, with Jasvinder Chopra from Hall Green Comprehensive School, Bilston, second, and Mark Barber and Kurt Bennett sharing third. Pictured are Ken Merrell, Jasvinder Chopra, Barbara Simpson, Brian Fuller, Mark Barber, Kurt Bennett and Rex Martin. Do you remember school competitions like these, when a certificate, a prize and a moment in the spotlight could create memories that lasted for years? | Express & Star archive
27. Mander Centre, 1983
A little bit of countryside comes to the heart of Wolverhampton in 1983, as Tettenhall Horse Sanctuary brings a display of animals to entertain shoppers at the Mander Centre. Cindy Nixon from Manston Drive, Perton, is pictured with kid goat Dicket, who appears more interested in having a nibble than staying still for the camera. Do you remember town centre events like this, when a trip to the shops could turn into an unexpected encounter with animals and a memory to treasure? | Express & Star archive
28. Woodlands Camp, Streetly, in 1985
‘Swinging into action’ - 13-year-old Samantha Eggington enjoys a splash-filled adventure at Woodlands Camp, Streetly, in 1985. One of 50 Walsall youngsters enjoying a three-day outdoor break, Samantha tackled the rope course over the water with a smile - ending up soaked but clearly loving every moment. A reminder of school holidays filled with fresh air, muddy clothes and unforgettable adventures. | Express & Star archives