Screams and music can be heard across the city centre this week, which means the Charter Fair is back. 

Dating back to 1227, when King Henry III granted a charter to the Bishop of Salisbury to hold a fair on the third Monday in October, the event remains a treasured annual tradition. 

This year is no different, with rides, games and food on offer for all ages to enjoy in the heart of the city. 

READ MORE: 47 stunning pictures of the Charter Fair from years gone by

The fair opened on Sunday, October 20 and will remain until 10pm on Wednesday, October 23.

We've looked through our archives to see how the 2024 version of the fair compares to the fun had in the 1950s, 60s, and 70s.

From candy floss to bumper cars and the classic Ferris wheel, some things don't really change at all. 

Use the sliders below to compare the years.

Bumper cars - 2024 vs 1973

Rides - 2024 vs 1975 

Candy floss - 2024 vs 1956

Ferris Wheel - 2024 vs 1959

Waltzer - 2024 vs 1960

The Bright Lights - 2024 vs 1969

The Twister - 2024 vs 1954

Entertainment - 2024 vs 1959