Model Rail

Model Rail magazine is the UK's biggest-selling magazine dedicated to railway modelling. Every issue is packed with the country’s finest home and club layouts, stunning photography, unbiased and in-depth product reviews, expert tips, layout plans and step-by-step articles that really show you how. In our unique ‘Workbench’ section, we tackle a wide range of modeling skills and projects. Our expert writers and model-makers will help you to get the most from your hobby and build the layout of your dreams. Model Rail is published 13 times a year, every four weeks.

Welcome

MODEL RAIL

Life’s better with Model Rail

Meet the team behind the UK’s best modelling magazine

Model Rail essential information

The Big Picture • There’s nothing in the unwritten ‘rules’ of model railways that say your first layout has to be perfect, even if it’s an exhibition layout. In fact, for the majority of people there is always something to improve upon. For Ray Taylor and Anna Bass it was only when they exhibited another of their layouts, ‘Ambleton Vale’, that they realised how they could improve on the experience for both themselves and viewers with their next layout. You can read about how they’ve achieved this and what they have created in an upcoming issue of Model Rail. Photography: CHRIS NEVARD

BACHMANN WORKSHOP UPDATE

Modeller’s Bookshelf • There’s a trio of photographic titles for diesel and electric fans this month, taking in London and Scottish operations. There’s also an excellent ‘vintage’ book on the Class 31s, which is essential for modellers of the BR era.

On the Workbench • George Dent looks at the new products to land on his workbench this month

EXHIBITION DIARY – OCTOBER-NOVEMBER 2021

…and finally

Show & Tell • The place to share your projects with the Model Rail community.

Staff Show & Tell Lisburn Lane progress • George Dent’s layout has been neglected in the past few months, but work has restarted following a few tweaks to the track plan.

According to Chris... • Chris’ view is that modelling – like any hobby – is as expensive as you choose to make it.

A sense of connection • Peter Burnage had already built two layouts of his childhood stomping ground before this one. We wouldn’t bet on the third version being his last…

WORKING in multiple • Richard Foster and Ben Jones look at the history and the impact of the Windhof Multiple Purpose Vehicles.

HOW TO UPGRADE A BACH MANN WINDHOF MPV • With an eye on autumn track conditions, George Dent upgrades an MPV with improved cab interiors and an authentic weathered finish.

Workbench • 17 pages of projects, advice and top tips that show you how

MODEL BRATTON FLEMING STATION • Chris Leigh tackles a new kit with a difference – a 3D-printed station building for the Lynton & Barnstaple Railway.

REPLACE WHEELS ON OLDER MODELS • George Dent tries out a new range of drop-in wheel sets for Lima locomotives and multiple units.

CREATE REALISTIC DIORAMA SCENES • Inspired by some of the UK’s disused railways, Alex Spencer decided to create a pair of scenic dioramas which allowed him to try out a range of new techniques

BUILD A CANAL • Post-lockdown walks along the towpath inspired Peter Marriott to give modelling the Grand Union canal a go.

Know your stuff • This is where our team of experienced modellers answer YOUR questions. Email your queries about railways – real or model – to modelrail@bauermedia.co.uk

KNOW YOUR... LIVERIES • Paul CHancellor kicks off a new series with a look at the colour schemes inherited by the nascent British Railways.

Notes from the Workshop DAVE LOWERY’S TOP TIPS

CONCEALING POINT SWITCHES/CONTROL PANEL

We worth waiting for •...