Rewind to Kids TV in the 1980s

The 1980s. A decade of big hair, Rubik’s Cubes, and some truly iconic children’s television. For those of us who grew up in the UK during this era, Saturday mornings and after-school slots were a sacred time, filled with magical worlds, catchy theme tunes, and characters who felt like old friends.

There was a unique charm to ’80s kids’ TV – a blend of imagination, gentle education, and often, a touch of delightful absurdity. From puppets to animated adventures, these shows shaped our childhoods and left an indelible mark on our memories. It was a time when television felt like a warm hug, a portal to endless possibilities, and a guaranteed escape from homework.

Top 5 Kids Shows from the 1980s

1. Grange Hill

“Grange Hill” wasn’t just a show; it was an institution. This groundbreaking drama offered a surprisingly realistic (for its time) look at life in a comprehensive school. Tackling serious issues like bullying, drug abuse, and racism, alongside the everyday dramas of friendships, crushes, and classroom antics. The theme tune alone is enough to transport you back to your school days!

The characters felt relatable, and the show didn’t shy away from depicting the trials and tribulations of growing up, making it a powerful and memorable part of ’80s viewing.

Watch Grange Hill, Series 1, Epsiode 1 on YouTube

2. Danger Mouse

“He’s the greatest! He’s fantastic!…Danger Mouse” was an absolute triumph of British animation. Starring the world’s greatest secret agent, a suave mouse with an eye-patch, and his bumbling hamster sidekick Penfold, this show was packed with witty dialogue, clever plots, and unforgettable villains like Baron Greenback.

It was fast-paced, funny, and full of action, making every episode an exciting adventure. The humour was sharp, appealing to both kids and adults, and it remains a beloved classic.

Watch Danger Mouse on Youtube.

3. Postman Pat

“Postman Pat, Postman Pat, Postman Pat and his black and white cat.” This gentle stop-motion animation about a friendly village postman and his cat Jess was a staple of pre-school television.

Each episode saw Pat delivering mail and often helping out the residents of Greendale with their various problems. It was comforting, warm, and provided a lovely glimpse into community life. The simple stories and charming characters made it an enduring favourite.

Watch Postman Pat, Series 1 Episode 1, on YouTube

4. Terrahawks

From the genius mind of Gerry Anderson (creator of Thunderbirds), “Terrahawks” was a sci-fi puppet show that pushed the boundaries of special effects for its time. Featuring a team of heroes defending Earth from the evil Zelda and her monstrous creations, it was full of exciting action sequences, futuristic vehicles, and memorable catchphrases.

The blend of puppetry and model work was captivating, and it offered a more thrilling, adventurous alternative to some of the gentler children’s shows. It truly felt like a grand space opera for a young audience.

Expect the Unexpected, Terrahawks Season 1 Epsiode 1, on Youtube

5. Button Moon

“Button Moon” was pure, unadulterated whimsy. With its distinctive cut-out animation style, it told the story of Mr. Spoon, Mrs. Spoon, and their daughter Tina, who would travel to Button Moon in their Heinz baked bean tin rocket. The gentle stories, the charming characters, and the soothing narration created a truly magical and imaginative experience. It was the kind of show that sparked creativity and left you dreaming of your own adventures in the sky.

Watch Button Moon on YouTube

These shows, and many others, are more than just childhood memories; they’re a part of our cultural fabric. They taught us, entertained us, and transported us to worlds beyond our living rooms.

The ’80s truly were a golden age for UK children’s television, and the warmth of that nostalgia still glows brightly today. What were your favourites? Let us know!

If you’re looking for some Kids TV from the 1970’s, take a read of our article about Pagpuss!