Hi there , my husband is just starting out in the model railroading hobby and i was wondering if there is any suppliers in the Uk who could be recommened to us…im new to all this and hubby does not use the internet.
I periodically purchase UK models and have them shipped to the US. My favorite supplier is Hattons of Liverpool http://www.hattons.co.uk/ I have always had excelllent service from them.
I have also had good luck with http://www.modellersmecca.co.uk/ who are in the West Midlands.
When visiting my folks in the UK my new favorite local hobby shop to visit is down in Somerset is http://www.bridgwatermodelrailways.co.uk/ it is only small, but has a great location in an active main line station.
Now, if you are looking for US models in the UK I am not sure where to direct you to.
[#welcome]
Here are some addresses of online stores in the UK:
Just click on the names to go to their web sites.
A fairly comprehensive list of model shops you can find here.
Hope this is of help to you!
trainwidow1968.
[#welcome] to the Forums.
Before you go sneaking out and surprising hubby with some models, it may be a good idea to find out what scale he is interested in and what particular railway if any. You will always get help in general modeling here and also by entering a few key words in the “SEARCH OUR COMMUNITY” box down the right hand side of the threads.
Good luck to you and your hubby in your trip to “THE WORLDS GREATEST HOBBY”.
Blue Flamer. (Born in Liverpool in '39)
I love her username, it’s just about right I think all the wives would agree.
I admire your bravery!
As you clearly do use the net I would recommend that you take a look on E Bay to at least dazzle yourself with the vast range of stuff available… and to get an idea of prices. They range from dirt cheap to ludicrous.
There are several more steps but one early one should be to get a copy of Continental Modeller from Smiths. It includes US otline and is the “exchange and Mart” for the UK modeller.
I don’t like Hattons at all. I’ve been there in person and their behaviour could only be (politely) described as ignorant.
Model Junction near Slough used to be good. The wife knows her product and is very helpful. The husband likes talking to his mates.
MG Sharpe in Sheffield is only interested in DCC and you might not like the language.
I believe that Totally trains are getting out of the US scene. They were relatively expensive.
If you’re “oop north” Porter Wynn in Clitheroe will be very helpful… you can help yourself by having a prepared idea of what you/he wants to do.
I have to ask… have you told him that he’s just starting out in model railroading? (If so fishing might be a better bet for you - it will get him out from under the hoover).
Model railroads from the retail trade are not cheap. There’s also lots of “non railroad” things involved.
Is he any good at woodwork? Are you happy to let him loose with tools? Does he blow things/himself up easily? (this is not a sure-fire route to a good insurance claim. [:-,] ).
Dogs are healthier.
It has been mentioned that you/he need to decide what size of models he will go for.&n