Retro wallpapers - our pick of the best

Retro wallpapers, ahh there's something rather cheering about vintage pattern and when it's proudly displayed large scale on a wall it can be doubly evocative. Seeing vintage style wallpaper that brings to mind a memory from childhood can introduce a warmth and homeliness to our own homes that a top coat of magnolia just can't quite muster.

What's more, the unabashed joy of these colours and motifs is a more than welcome alternative to the cool, unadorned minimalism of recent years. Ditsy florals in pink and blue might not be for everyone, but there's so much more than that on offer.

Tap in to the trend for bold pattern with a design classic from William Morris or keep things luxe with 70s wallpaper, the beauty of dipping into the archive is that there is something to please every style. Our little selection includes sharp-angled Art Deco geometric wallpaper, line-drawn British landscapes, classic Arts & Crafts trailing botanics, colour washed postcards and a little touch of nostalgic Victoriana.

This is the second design from Mini Moderns 'Hinterland' collection and a clever twist on retro wallpaper patterns from the 1950s. Inspired by the humble peg board displays from junk shops and hardware stores in the surrounding areas of the Mini Moderns beach house in Dungeness. Repeat pattern 53cm. 

Buy now: Peggy Wallpaper, £45, Rose and Grey

This beautiful Art Deco-style retro wallpaper is a real favourite. The subtle green colour and the deceptively intricate diamond pattern have a very 1930s style that is a celebration of the decade. Ideal for those who want an authentic vintage feel in their home. Bring a bespoke feel to the room with co-ordinating paint colours for a designer finish. Pattern repeat 53cm. 

Buy now: Deco Diamond Green Wallpaper, £20, Graham and Brown

Why go for plain blue wallpaper when you can have this fabulously retro wallpaper in pretty pink and blue, featuring pretty rose buds in two sizes set on a finely white spotted blue background. As this is a special order it may take 10 to 14 working days. Repeat pattern 27cm. 

Buy now: Pip Rosebud Wallpaper, £62, Wallpaper Direct

No one does modern-vintage cheerfulness quite like Cath Kidston - and this chirpy bird wallpaper is no exception. A lovely vintage bird wallpaper design in bright jolly colours against a neutral backdrop, this would work perfectly in a guest bedroom or as a feature wall in a pretty country living room. Also available as an oilcloth. Pattern repeat 52cm. 

Buy now: Garden Birds Wallpaper, £25, Cath Kidston

Forget retro wallpaper, this seaweed and flowers pattern by William Morris is a design classic. Definitely one for those who dare to be different, the dark green tones and red berry combo is a recent colour way to update a much-loved pattern, and it's also available in red and gold, and pink and black. Use liberally to bring an elegant, traditional vibe to a lavish study or dramatic dining room, light the candelabra and enjoy the ambiance. Pattern repeat 52cm. 

Buy now: Morris Seaweed Wallpaper, £62, Wallpaper Direct

What's not to love about this inventive retro wallpaper adorned with iconic vintage-themed accessories. Grand Penny Farthings, classic pocket watches, top hats and moustaches all come together to create a humorous piece of design - just perfect for a study. Vinyl. Pattern repeat 26.5cm. 

Buy now: Holden Decor Gentlemen’s Club British Retro Wallpaper, £16, I Want Wallpaper

Lose yourself in the magical landscape of Dungeness. The charming wallpaper features a mass of shingle punctuated by illustrated vignettes of lighthouses, abandoned fishing boats, ramshackle huts and beach houses. The neutral background makes this retro wallpaper surprisingly versatile while the indigo accents are bang on trend. Try this in a master bedroom for a coastal vibe with a quirky edge. Pattern repeat 53cm.

Buy now: Dungeness Coach Denim Wallpaper, £25, Mini Moderns

Mustards and oranges were THE colours of the 1970s and this sunny and cheerful retro wallpaper celebrates the exuberant designs of that period. This textured wallpaper is a paste-the-wall product for easy hanging. Try this design in grey Scandi and mid-century schemes to bring sunshine to living areas, hallways and bedrooms. Pattern repeat 26.5cm. 

Buy now: Orsino Yellow Wallpaper, £18, B&Q

Of all the retro wallpapers this tangerine dream has got to be one of the boldest we've seen. Using a fabulous vintage flower design inspired by a popular original Biba print from 1962, this stylish orange wallpaper will give your living room a fun 1960s vibe. Also available in black. Straight Pattern match design, repeat 26.5cm. 

Buy now: Funky Flora Tangerine Dream, £45, Wilko

A mixture of dark neutral shade one design, this retro wallpaper combines grey and brown tones that brings the classic 1960s pattern up-to-date. Use on a feature wall to give a bold vintage feel to any room. Straight match pattern repeat.

Buy now: Retro Motif Black, Brown & Grey Geometric Wallpaper, £14, B&Q

A small scale climbing leaf, with linear detail, gives this retro wallpaper a low key geometric feel. The pattern is available in a wide range of beautiful yet soft colours including pale blues, sage green, grey, beige and yellow, which is shown here. It makes a versatile option for any interior, perfect for adding subtle pattern while keeping the overall look warm and welcoming. 

Buy now: Jane Churchill Retro Leaf Wallpaper, £48, John Lewis