Nostalgic memories of Welwyn Garden City's local history

Share your own memories of Welwyn Garden City and read what others have said

For many years now, we've been inviting visitors to our web site to add their own memories to share their experiences of life as it was when the photographs in our archive were taken. From brief one-liners explaining a little bit more about the image depicted, to great, in-depth accounts of a childhood when things were rather different than today (and everything inbetween!). We've had many contributors recognising themselves or loved ones in our photographs.

Why not add your memory today and become part of our Memories Community to help others in the future delve back into their past.

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It's easy to add your own memories and reconnect with your shared local history. Search for your favourite places and look for the 'Add Your Memory' buttons to begin

Displaying Memories 1 - 10 of 23 in total

I joined the BARN THEATRE SOCIETY in 1970 and we put on several performances of Gilbert and Sullivan operettas in the new (1972) building opposite the Campus
I remember coming to Ryelands in about 1955 or 6.It was a paradise for kids as only about half of was built and still some unfinished houses on Howlands.I knew Philip Young.and John Spong of Howlands,Illana and Philip Bouscilla,Caren White(first girlfriend),and several others.As far as I remember the farms had already been turned into the playing fields and Hyde House was still ...see more
My father managed WH Smiths in Howardsgate before the war. He later returned to WGC to manage the Books and Stationary Departments at Welwyn Stores between 1956 and 1979 when he retired. He will be celebrating his 100th birthday on Monday!
Hello, I was a pupil at Sherrardswood from 1957 to 1959. Unfortunately, my presence at the school was no longer required when I was caught visiting the girls dormitory at night. I have since reformed (?) and am happily married, living in California. Also I changed my last name for certain reasons, and no, I'm not a fugitive from justice. Would like to hear from anyone who remembers me as Brian Goldfield.
My wife, Judy, grew up in WGC, from 1949 to 1974. She attended Ludwick School, Peartree School and finally, the now demolished Howard School. She worked for Rank Bush Murphy, then the Police Headquarters until we married and moved away. We now live in Canada, but her sister made a video of WGC for her, so she can wander down memory lane when she wants!
I met my first wife in WGC. I lived in London and she lived in Knella Road. She worked at De Havillands on what was the the Hatfield by pass. I would travel from Kings Cross to the WGC station. I remember, what was then, the long walk over the railway yards by the Welgar Shredded Wheat company, always loving the sight of those wonderful art deco looking grain elevators. Often the smell ...see more
We moved to WGC in early 1956 and I went to Templewood School until 1959 before moving on to Welwyn Garden City Grammar School. I absolutely loved this school and have so many happy memories. I had so many friends and I can picture them all now. We used to spend a lot of time climbing trees at playtime and I can remember spending a lot of time hanging upside down in the holly tree. The ...see more
My mum has a photo taken c1958 when the fountain froze over...its a beautiful picture that has been up on the wall of our family home for as long as I can remember. My memory of the fountain is from the late 70's when I 'borrowed' my older sisters wooden and cork wedge shoes and put one in the water to see if it would float!!! Luckily it did andIi vividly remember how cold the water was as I waded in to retrieve it...happy days!
Wonderful teachers, Mr Croydon French Latin some sports. Mr Chester Woodwork Gym and cricket. Millicent Millington Mathematics. Mr Webb History and Geography. Mr Davy Sciences. The grounds were very woody and the air raid shelters great for running about on. The canteen served delicious cocoa in blue squashy mugs. My dear friends Keith Starkey and Geoffrey Scott were in my form. I remember the school ...see more
In the early spring, arriving early for school at Sherrards Wood, I took a look at the most incredible sight you could imagine, Cherry Blossoms filled my sight all along Pentley Park. It made my heart jump with joy to see the richness and beauty.