How to Restore the Classic Widgets Screen After a WordPress Update

Introduction

With recent WordPress releases, the Widgets screen now uses the Block Editor. If you prefer the familiar classic widget interface—matching our demos and tutorials—you can install the Classic Widgets plugin to revert to the previous experience.

Restore Classic Widgets

1. In your WordPress admin, go to Plugins > Add New.
2. Search for Classic Widgets.
3. Click Install Now, then Activate.
4. No further configuration is needed; the classic Widgets page is immediately restored under Appearance > Widgets.
   

Troubleshooting and FAQs

Q: I don’t see the classic Widgets screen—what should I check?
A: Ensure the Classic Widgets plugin is active. Then clear any caching or reload your browser.

Q: Will this plugin disable other block-based widget customizations?
A: Yes. It replaces the block-based widget editor entirely, reverting all widget management to the classic UI.

Q: Can I remove the plugin later to return to the block Widgets screen?
A: Absolutely. Deactivating or uninstalling Classic Widgets restores the default block-based editor.

Q: Is this compatible with my theme and other plugins?
A: Classic Widgets is lightweight and designed to work with any theme or plugin that uses the native Widgets API.