Beginner Guides - Model Railway Line

Beginner Guides

Check out our beginner guides to help you get started in the world of model trains.

The Hogwarts Express model train

Beginner Guides

What Model Train is The Hogwarts Express?

It's the train that's synonymous with the Harry Potter franchise and is instantly recognizable to fans of the movies. But what model train is the Hogwarts Express? This guide explores the origins of this iconic steam locomotive.

A BNSF model train at high speed

How Fast Do Model Trains Go?

A guide to the top speed of popular train sets, how to run them to their potential, and the history of the fastest scale locomotives on record.

How to Sell Model Trains and Hornby Train Sets

Beginner Guides

How to Sell Model Trains and Hornby Train Sets

Review the best options for selling model trains, from online auctions through to hobby stores and achieve maximum returns from your Hornby train sets.

A model train emerging from a tunnel

Beginner Guides

Are Model Trains Toys?

Let's take a look at the comparison between model trains and toys to see the differences and features of both. Can toys be considered model trains?

The best model train brands for OO, HO, O and N gauge layouts

Beginner Guides

Guide to the Best Model Train Brands

Which model train manufacturer is best? In this guide we'll compare the most popular model railroad brands and discover who makes the best model trains.

Comparison of N scale and HO scale trains in relation to price

Beginner Guides

Is N Scale Cheaper than HO?

Find out which of these popular model train scales is the least expensive for building a model railroad layout. Compare the price difference between N scale and HO scale trains.

A model railfan uncoupling a Hornby train

How to Uncouple Hornby Trains

In this article we take a look at how to uncouple Hornby trains safely in order to prevent damage to your model trains and track.

Guide to the most common model train scales and gauges

Train Sets Featured

What are Model Train Scales? Modelling Gauges Explained

Model trains come in a variety of scales and gauges. This guide explains model train scales in detail and considers the best gauge to use in rail transport modelling. A number of commercially available model railway gauges can be used to build a great layout.

An HO gauge model railway layout with static grass scenery

Beginner Guides

8 Essential Steps To Take Before Building a Model Railway

Follow these simple 8 steps before constructing a model railway to avoid the most common mistakes when planning and building a track layout. Use these easy to follow tips and tricks on your next model railway build.

A Z scale model railway layout

What is Z Gauge? A Guide to Z Scale Model Trains

A guide to Z scale model trains and how they compare to HO or OO gauge. Find out if the best Z gauge trains are suited to small spaces or are a cost effective option for a DCC model railway layout.

OO and HO gauge locomotives and track on a model railway layout

Can OO Gauge Model Trains Run on HO Track?

Discover whether OO gauge model trains, locomotive and buildings are fully compatible with HO track and find the best train scale and most popular gauge to run on your model railway.

An electric DCC train set operating on a model railway layout

Train Sets Featured

A Complete Guide to the Best Train Sets

Compare and review the best train sets for kids, adults and model rail hobbyists. Find a great electric train set by searching in the top online guide featuring quality advice, tips and reviews.

A model railway engineer setting up a Hornby train set

How to Set Up a Hornby Train Set for Beginners

Learn how to build your Hornby train set by following our step by step beginners guide. Get your first Hornby model railway started and set up first time using simple, easy to follow steps.

A DCC train on a model railway layout

Train Sets Featured

DC vs DCC Model Trains

If you're just starting out in the model railway hobby, you'll have likely come across the two different types of model trains – DC and DCC. Learn which is the best control system for building your model railway layout. What’s the difference between DCC and DC model trains?

Are 00 Gauge Model Railway Layouts Best?

Beginner Guides

Are 00 Gauge Model Railway Layouts Best?

00 gauge is one of several model railway gauges to choose from, and there are advantages and disadvantages to choosing it. Despite 00 gauge model railway layouts being the most popular type available, are they always the best choice?

The Best Place to Build a Model Railway

Beginner Guides

The Best Place to Build a Model Railway

When building a model railway your first task will be to determine the best place to build it. There's many potential options – lofts, garages, basements or spare rooms. The ideal location for you will be determined by personal preference, what is available, and any restrictions in terms of space.