Model Rail (UK)

Welcome

I write this in early January after a welcome festive break. The end of the year is always a busy time at MR, particularly so in 2025 with a huge influx of new models arriving for review, along with samples of our own exclusive projects (see page 8)....

Welcome

For all editorial enquiries, you can contact us by modelrail@ bauermedia.co.uk email: Postal address Model Rail, Media House, Lynchwood, Peterborough Business Park, Peterborough PE2 6EA Or you can us on 01733 468412 Model Rail is also on www....

Welcome

The recent announcement of EFE Rail’s forthcoming ‘OO’ Class 313 and Class 314 EMUS has excited many enthusiasts, thanks to the prototypes spanning several important eras. It also goes some way to bridging a significant gap in the market. Fans of...

Welcome

We’ve had so much in the way of model booty arriving at Model Rail HQ recently. Indeed, this month’s review pages are crammed with new ‘OO’, ‘TT:120’ and ‘O’ gauge releases from several manufacturers, but Heljan’s Class 104 has stood out as a personal...

THE STORY OF THE STOCKTON & DARLINGTON

Welcome

The divisive ‘D’ word has reared its head again in the past few weeks: Duplication. After creating superb renditions of the Class 56 and 60, Cavalex Models has turned its attention to the Class 47. With Hornby, Lima, Heljan, Vi-trains and Bachmann all...

Welcome

The Class 50 had been dominating my thoughts as this issue was being completed, thanks to the arrival of Accurascale’s new ‘OO’ gauge model, which landed just in time for a full review (see page 82). Funnily enough, the Accurascale model was delivered...

RAPIDO MOVES INTO ‘OO9’ NARROW GAUGE

RAPIDO MOVES INTO ‘OO9’ NARROW GAUGE EASY WAYS TO SPRUCE UP YOUR DIESEL CABS

Welcome

By happy coincidence, Hornby’s eagerly awaited Stadler Class 755 ‘FLIRT’ bi-mode multiple units were running around my test track while I spoke to a reporter about the Margate company’s recent delisting from the London stock exchange. I’m no economist,...

Welcome

While back in my native North West recently, I was honoured to attend Manchester MRS’ centenary celebrations (see page 9), and also enjoyed a few rides up and down the majestic Hope Valley line. Since I moved away in 2018, the second-generation BR...

Improving Bulleid’s infamous locomotive

Welcome

‘Choice facilitates freedom’. It’s one of the guiding principles of western capitalism. Hobbies haven’t been immune from this push towards ever-greater choice. Anyone with an interest in painting would once have headed to a local art shop, to be faced...

Welcome

Happy New Year! I wonder how many of you have made modelling resolutions for 2025. My goals are largely similar to the past few years, with a hope of finishing several ongoing projects, and a desire to start a few more. Dave Finney’s ‘Cheeky Shunt’...

Welcome George Dent Editor

In early December, Hornby hosted its traditional annual press preview of its plans for 2025, and I type these words on the proverbial morning after. Gazing out to sea from a funky Margate coffee shop, as the drizzle clouds the windows, I’ve been...

Welcome

Life really is too short. There are so many railway locations I would love to model in my lifetime, a few of which I’ve visited in the past month. Tunstead quarry would make a magnificent – if slightly dystopian – setting among the verdant hills of the...

Welcome

I was chatting with a friend recently, who was thrilled by the prospect of moving to a new abode where he will finally have the space to build his first proper model railway. Having also heard about a youngster’s joy at constructing his first layout...

Welcome

I write these words aboard a train heading north after a brief visit to the South Coast to catch up with several model specialists, including Gaugemaster. It has been a busy few days, but hugely enjoyable, especially the time spent zipping along the...

SUMMER GETAWAY

TAKE A TRIP ON THE CORNISH MAIN LINE

Welcome

The issue of duplication returned this month, with Accurascale announcing a Br/brush Class 60 in ‘OO’. Cavalex Models’ ‘60’ is now at an advanced stage of development, while Hornby’s longstanding model remains well regarded and is likely to be around...

Welcome

It has been several years in the making, but Bachmann’s all-new ‘OO’ gauge Class 25 has now arrived, and you can read my full review on page 76. The ‘Derby Sulzers’ – real and model – hold a special place in my heart. I was lucky enough to witness...