Everything you need to know before you begin your model railway journey

So, you want to start a model railway? You’ve come to the right place! Whether you’re returning to the hobby for nostalgic reasons or you’re a train enthusiast building for the first time, your model train layout will provide a lifelong challenge that will bring you joy. Read on to get started.

Pick a gauge

Model railway enthusiasts in the UK are split into two groups. You need to decide whether you prefer 00-gauge or TT:120.

Gauge is different to scale; it refers to the space between the rails while scale relates to the size of a model in relation to its real-life counterpart.

For a long time, 00 gauge has been one of the most popular options for model railways. With 16.5mm between the rails, this has become a comfortable choice for model railway enthusiasts old and new.  Our Flying Scotsman Train Set is great for those with a little history knowledge, while the GWR High Speed Train Set is ideal for anyone wanting a more modern layout.

However, TT is catching up. When we launched the gauge two years ago, people were hesitant to make the switch. But with only 12mm between the rails, these tabletop trains are smaller, making them ideal for those with limited space. We recommend The Scotsman Train Set or the Inter-City 125 High Speed Train Set for newbies.

You can find out more about scales and gauges here.

Set a budget

There’s no denying it – the model railway hobby can quickly become an expensive one. But it is possible to build a starter railway layout on a budget.

The Hornby range of model railway products covers many price points, to ensure there is something for everybody to enjoy. With train sets starting at £39.99, you can expect simple layouts, durable models and easy-to-use controls, making them perfect for beginners. As you become more experienced in your hobby, you might want to level up to a more comprehensive set.

Or, if your budget allows, you can take the plunge and look at more premium sets right away, like the Mallard Record Breaker Train Set.

Or, if you’re returning to the hobby after a hiatus, you might want to get creative, buying the track and accessories to make a layout of your own design, with your preferred locomotives and rolling stock running on top.

Check out our RailRoad range, as it is great for customising your own layout, with models covering various eras ensuring there is something for every railway fan.

Choose your theme

Some enthusiasts like to base their layout on certain model railway themes. If that’s you, it’s a good idea to select the theme or era that you will be modelling before you start building.

Are you a steam, diesel or modern image kind of hobbyist? If you are a steam fan, the Mallard Record Breaker Train Set will work for you. Diesel devotees might prefer the GWR High Speed Train Set.

Do you want to build a beautiful British countryside scene or are you thinking of creating an industrial freight yard? Perhaps you want to build your hometown, with a railway running through it, or maybe you want something more imaginative, like a Wild West theme or a haunted Halloween design. The accessories you choose should be influenced by this decision.

If you’re a historian, the era you choose might be the most important thing. Whatever choices you make will help guide your rolling stock and scenery decisions.

Find out more about eras here.

What will you find in the box?

Every set is slightly different but generally, you’ll find these things in each one:

·      Models

Most sets come with a single locomotive and two wagons or coaches. But occasionally, like with the Inter-City 125 High Speed Train Set, you’ll get a power car, a dummy car and two coaches. The configuration is usually the minimum you need to create a train, but you can always add more rolling stock to build out your consist.

·      Track

Every set comes with an oval of track. This is perfect for testing your trains and makes a great base for building out your model railway layout when you’re ready to expand. Some sets also come with additional track packs so you can start expanding straight away.

·      Control

Control comes via a standard transformer plug, controller and a piece of power track.

The transformer plug provides power to the set, while the controller attaches to the power track, giving you control over your locomotive so you can change speed and direction.

Immerse yourself in the hobby

If you want to learn more about your model railway hobby, there are plenty of ways to get involved.

The Hornby blog is a very rich source of product information and railway history, and there’s always something new to read here. You can also join the conversations on our forum, learning from other modellers, or follow our YouTube channel for tips, advice and up-to-date information.

You can sign up to The Hornby Collector Club or The Hornby TT:120 Digital Club, for additional hobby perks. And our Hobby Rewards scheme is a great way to save money and discover exciting hobby experiences.

Remember, model railway building is a long-term, relaxing hobby, with so much opportunity to learn, upskill and grow. Take your layout one step at a time and enjoy the process.

Ready to get started? Discover our model train sets here.