A Guide to Choosing the Ideal Modelling Train Set

What kid (or kid at heart) doesn’t remember the first model railway layout they saw in a storefront or magazine? And how many generations of kids’ eyes have been lit up on Christmas morning when they discovered their own electric train set under the tree?

It’s probably safe to say that if you’re reading this article, then you were one of them. And it’s probably safe to say too that even though you’re a bit older now than you were then, your eyes still light up when you see a train set.

Assuming you still have the same love for model railways that you had then but more time and income to dedicate to it, have you considered how great it would be to jump back into the hobby? Or maybe you have children of your own now and you’d love to introduce them to the thrill of railway modelling?

The truth is, the hobby’s never seen a more inviting time than now, and if you enjoyed it when you were a kid, you’ll be amazed by where it’s headed.

Model Railways That Excite and Inspire

Let’s be honest, model railroading has evolved dramatically over the last few decades; and the OO or HO scale equipment that’s been packed away in the attic since you were a teenager has little more than track size in common with today’s layouts. Once an enthusiast, always an enthusiast though, and one of Hornby’s modern Junior or Collection model train sets is just what you need to get back into the hobby, or to get a young person you know interested in it.

Hornby has been in the business of modelling railways for over a century, and not only are they one of the world’s oldest model train manufacturers but, they’re also one of the most celebrated. Their longevity is more than just a tribute to quality, though. It’s proof of their desire to keep making train sets that excite and inspire scale model railway fans throughout their lives.

• Playtrain sets. These fun, AA battery-operated sets for kids aged 3 and above are designed to spark the imagination and introduce youngsters to the magic of model railways.
• Feature sets. These sets include all the rolling stock, track, controls, and track mats that are needed for a beginning enthusiast to set up a complete layout in minutes.
• Collection sets. These sets are designed to be a durable, detailed, and fascinating step up that’s suitable for beginners as well as collectors.
• Rolling stock and accessories. From limited edition locomotive and coach releases to the bridge and building packs, these individual offerings let hobbyists individualize their layouts with the most detailed models available.    

From children’s and beginner layouts to professional model train sets, Hornby’s enthusiasm for high-quality trains comes through in every product. It’s the technology behind the enthusiasm, however, that’s allowed Hornby to consistently set itself apart from other manufacturers. And fortunately for railway fans, they’ve not only welcomed technical advancements, but they’ve also taken the lead on them.      

Hornby Model Railway Technology

Anyone who’s taken a break from model railways and is returning after 20 or more years will immediately notice how train operations are more digitised than ever.Thee operating technology is where the biggest changes in the hobby continue to take place.

Hornby has never been a company to sit on its technical laurels, though; and embracing technology has been an integral part of its ability to attract younger enthusiasts to the hobby, as well as rekindling the interest of older enthusiasts.

The technology built into Hornby‘s latest generation of working model train sets includes:

• A new generation of DC (direct current) analog controllers that feature groundbreaking wireless app interfacing with any smart device;
• DCC (Digital Command and Control) controllers that allow programmable control of multiple trains on a single track; and,
• More equipment eras and accurately reproduced rolling stock with individual light, sound, and smoke effects.

By bringing railway modelling more in step with the devices and technologies that people handle every day, Hornby model train sets go further than all others to stimulate modellers’ imaginations. At the same time, however, they realize that not every enthusiast is going to have the same level of interest (or resources) to dedicate to the hobby. And that’s why they go the extra distance to make every set unique.

Making Every Train Set Special

Hornby understands that there are more than just age differences between railway modellers. Some enthusiasts are happy with small, informal layouts that they can unwind and enjoy with their mates, while others strive for big model train sets with near photo-identical realism. There’s even a segment of hobbyists who are drawn almost exclusively to collectable sets.     

These are all reasons why Hornby produces such a wide range of complete model train sets for sale, and it’s especially true for their interactive commemorative sets. In taking a step back from prototype reality, they’ve even releasedseveralf collaborative commercial sets over the years that are as valued for their timeless significance as they are for their mechanical excellence, including:

• The Hornby Beatles “Yellow Submarine” set;
• The Harry Potter Hogwarts Express set; and,
• The Coca-Cola Summertime and Christmas sets.

These commemoratives qualify as some of the best model train sets ever produced by Hornby. They’re collectable and they make for great holiday or special occasion gifts for casual enthusiasts, and they demonstrate again just how dedicated Hornby is to making something for everyone.

The Final Word

At the end of the day, if you’ve ever owned a model train set, then you already know the joy that scale-sized precision can bring. It’s not a feeling that ever leaves you. And if you have children of your own, it’s a feeling you want them to experience as well.   

With Hornby’s reputation for making incredible model train sets, you can have that feeling again. Order your new set today, and allow yourself the privilege of feeling like a kid one more time.