Top 80's Toys

In the 1980s, the UK saw a surge in the popularity of toys that would go on to become classics and be remembered fondly by generations of children. From the advent of the first home video game consoles to the ever-expanding world of action figures, the 1980s provided plenty of options for kids to while away their hours in play. Here’s a look at some of the top 10 toys that were popular in the UK during the 1980s.

1. Cabbage Patch Kids – These soft, cuddly dolls were a huge hit in the 1980s, and the UK was no exception. The dolls were so popular that kids would line up for hours outside toy stores to get their hands on one.

2. Rubik’s Cube – This 3D puzzle game was first released in the UK in 1980 and quickly became a must-have item for kids across the country. It was a great way to test your mental agility and problem-solving skills.

3. Star Wars Action Figures – The Star Wars franchise was at its peak in the 1980s and so were the action figures. Kids would spend hours recreating the battles from the movies with these plastic figures.

4. Care Bears – These lovable stuffed animals were a hit with the younger kids, who would spend hours snuggling up with a Care Bear.

5. Masters of the Universe – This line of action figures was based on the popular cartoon series. Kids would spend hours playing with He-Man, Skeletor and the other characters.

6. Matchbox Cars – These miniature cars were a staple of childhood in the 1980s. Kids would spend hours racing these cars around their house, causing chaos and mayhem.

7. LEGO – LEGO was already a hit in the UK by the time the 1980s rolled around, and the plastic bricks made for hours of creative play.

8. My Little Pony – This line of small, colourful ponies was released in the UK in 1984 and quickly became a huge hit with kids of all ages.

9. Spirograph – This drawing toy was invented in 1965, but it wasn’t until the 1980s that it really took off in the UK. Kids would spend hours creating intricate designs with the colourful plastic discs.


The 1980s was an incredibly memorable decade for toys in the UK, and these items were some of the most popular. From the cuddly Cabbage Patch Kids to the exciting Masters of the Universe figures, these toys provided kids with hours of creative play.

These toys are fondly remembered by many adults today, and many have even been re-released in recent years. So if you’re feeling nostalgic for the 1980s, why not pick up one of these classic toys and relive those childhood memories?