This is insane!!! Much love from the US! The 80s/90s era has been my favorite for British railroads since I grew up, especially Intercity/NSE. I love the small attention to detail, this layout has to be the best I have ever seen, especially for how much you crammed into a small area!! I'm also quite impressed with your smooth trackwork and DC operation, even down to banking the curves. So beautiful!
Many thanks for the lovely message .... I tried to build this layout so that it’s reliable (so that I’m not always fixing derailments or having to poke to get a train moving!) and so far so good .... I do have the odd issue from time to time but overall it’s pretty reliable. Yes, I used a little bit of card under the main line curves to get some banking, along with transitions to the straights to get some smooth running. Stay safe and healthy over in the US 👍 Regards, Mark
Many thanks for the compliment and glad you enjoyed .... but please don’t give up!! Hopefully if anything, watching gives you extra mojo and motivation to either progress your layout or to develop one ... Regards, Mark
Very impressive layout . Not just the quality of it, which is superb, but the operational interest . Like you I like watching the trains go round nut also like them to start and finish somewhere .
Gosh. A truely amazing railway system that is well thought out and conceived and very well constructed. Its not my era but the whole system is a joy to watch. I shall watch this again - several times.
Absolutely fantastic. The detail and realism is first class in every respect. Great to see a layout that mirrors the long trains we see on the network.
Many thanks for the lovely comment, glad you enjoyed ... and yes, I do like seeing full length trains as well and I’ve been lucky enough to have been able to build reasonable sized layout to run decent length trains. Regards, Mark
What an atmosphere! So much of this layout reminds me of Edge Hill, Runcorn and perhaps Lichfield and Trent Valley. It is quite superb and your video a pleasure to watch. Congratulations!
Many thanks Phillip for the kind comment .... and yes! There’s a few sections from the WCML I’ve used to try to capture the atmosphere ... the through station is a bit of Stafford and Warrington BQ ... the curved viaduct of Runcorn/Dutton ... sweeping curves between Stafford and Crewe ... had I had more space I would have attempted Willesden TMD! Regards, Mark
Extremely impressive modelling and layout youare so lucky to have the space. Great to see a really well thought out track plan where you can really work your train across the loops and terminii to better simulate real routes and correespondingly longer interesting journies. Thanks for an inspiring tour. Stephen
Hi there Mark. I first watched this 2 years ago and it triggered me to start thinking about the hobby and building my first layout. 2 years on I'm completely hooked and, having also watched your other videos - particularly the 'time lapse build', my build is progressing nicely in my loft; very much inspired by your design i.e. a DC 'roundy-roundy' with through station, terminus, TMD and various storage areas underneath. Knowing the time yours took to get to this point has really helped keep my patience in check and getting into the hobby has done wonders for my general wellbeing! So, sincerest thanks for sharing your wonderful model!
A brilliant video to showcase the wonderful layout you have created. I really enjoyed the nine or so minutes which has left me wanting to see more. Aside form the obvious quality of the build and detailing, the most noticeable thing to me was the beautifully smooth running across every inch of the track. Thank you very much for sharing this with us.
Many thanks … Stockport viaduct is certainly huge and very impressive! I did use the viaduct at Dutton as some inspiration as it’s curved and double-track (the one near Runcorn on the Liverpool side of the Mersey) but does have a similar feel as Stockport. 👍
I stumbled across this layout looking for video on creating rivers. You have come SO FAR since then! The excellence of your modeling and detail work are clear to anyone watching the video. What may not be as obvious is the amazing track planning and electrical work that have provided a world class layout! Hats off to you!
Many thanks Glenn for the compliments ... and yes, the electrics have been fun ... fortunately I actually enjoyed installing over time and even enjoy soldering! I may include a tour of the electrics/control panel in a future video if you/others are interested ... regards, Mark
@@ModelRailway Please do a vido of the electrics and control panel, I am as interested in what's under the boards as what is running on the top. I run DCC as I find it simple to setup and operate, but woudn't have a clue how to wire multiple lines and contorllers. I would also be interested in video of how you made old Lima and Hornby chasis more electrically reliable. I used to run my Hornby and Lima class 86 & 87's on Lima's overhead catanery back in the late 80's early 90's, with reasonable sucess, however the are not as reliable running on DCC. Thanks for sharing your superb layout with us.
@@hughrooney6933 Thanks Hugh ... and some good requests and ideas for a future video; I’ve made a note of them. I’m thinking of a ‘behind the scenes’ video to show the control panel, points, OLE, signalling etc. Meanwhile, regarding the older Lima and Hornby loco’s ... I’ve found that having clean wheels and contacts really help; also some have additional pickups fitted to increase reliability. The Hornby Class 86’s and 90’s have the ‘Limby’ style chassis fitted with the upgraded motor; so no more Ringfield motors around the layout! Quite a few of the Lima Class 87’s do have the older ‘pancake’ style motors ... again, clean wheels and pickups help. Regards, Mark
Many thanks ... and go for it! Unfortunately I missed out visiting Scotland during the 80’s (too young!); my first trip was in the mid 90s ... I would have liked to have seen the steel coil trains roll past, along with the early AC loco’s and variety of other loco’s and liveries ... Regards, Mark
Wow thanks for sharing your layout tour. It looks absolutely amazing. I like your storage yards and the uncoupling system. Really enjoyed watching thanks again for sharing cheers Andy
What an absolutely stunning layout. You have to be congratulated for creating such an interesting, detailed and well designed model. The cricket pitch is a fantastic idea for a corner. The track plan so impressive. Thanks for sharing your layout with us all.
Nicely done video. I wouldn’t have thought than running a ‘simple’ oval would be interesting, but the creation of fast lines, multiple platform stations and working loco yards has great appeal. A well planned and beautifully executed railway. Congrats from Oz.
Many thanks for the lovely comment. When I developed the plan for the layout I wanted something where I could either set it up and running to watch the trains go by ... or where I also had operational interest, with the terminal station, loops, junctions between tracks and the yards. Thanks again, Mark
truly amazing - really captured the late 1980’s / early 1990 era with the mixed rakes mk2/mk3 not to mention some trains with dvt whilst others have the mk1 brake van. for some reason the opening scene at patriot reminds me of trains arriving at preston then heading out over s&c.
Many thanks Christopher .... glad you enjoyed. I heard last week that Bachmann are bringing out some Motor-rail GUV vans .... so it’s a bit tempting to purchase a few to recreate the rake where the vans were attached and detached, especially to the DVT! I’ve been aboard a few of the diesel drags over the S&C with the loco changes at each end ... lovely trip and memories. Regards, Mark
You've certainly made use of the available space. So now all you have to do, is get the Catenary working. For Baseboard joins you'll need clip on - clip off Sommerfeldt catenary wire sections, under a little tension. It does work, as I used this system on a number of N Gauge exhibition layouts with numerous baseboard joins. Indeed I even had one or two electric locos actually powered from the overhead, so they could be used for shunting coaching stock, without interfering with any other rail fed loco. This feature had many viewers at shows, fascinated and perplexed as to how it was done !!!
Many thanks for the comment! Regarding the catenary, it’s purely cosmetic … the Dapol plastic masts aren’t strong enough to withstand a pantograph running and as the layout isn’t an exhibition layout, it’s primarily for myself at home and one-person operation … then I wanted reliability to be a priority. I’ve begun to set pantograph heights just below the minimum wire height and pleased with the results so far … I know it’s not perfect, but from a realistic viewing distance looks effective. I do admire those like yourself that attempt pantographs in contact … good effort! Great to see others modelling electrics though and enjoying the hobby! 👍 ps Plenty of other items on the to-do list besides the OLE … watch this space!
@@ModelRailway The trick with catenary is to place every third or fourth mast 1mm too far from the previous mast to obtain a little tension. Also catenary wire can only go in straight lines. So in tighter corners the masts have to be a lot closer together, to ensure the wire stays above the flat central section of any pantograph. Takes a little trial and error to get used to how it all works. But once you get your first pantograph running on the overhead, it becomes addictive. The Sommerfeldt & Viesmann ranges (Both German made) include certain BR type masts, and of course all those clever little bits to cope with pointwork, and even working tensioners. These two ranges are of course almost totally interchangeable. Their catalogues also give details of how to install catenary. Happy Modelling.
Many thanks Graham for the lovely comment, glad you enjoyed the layout tour … and I’ve added a few more bits to the layout since that was recorded and uploaded a few videos of the progress as well! Kind regards, Mark
First thing that popped in to my head was how have I not seen this before, as it’s absolutely my kind of thing. I see your first video was uploaded about 6 weeks ago, so that explains a lot. This is epic. So glad you’ve decided to share it with everybody and really happy you commented on my Facebook post with a link. This alone has made my day. When did you start building this layout? Only a couple of hundred subscribers. Something tells me that is going to go through the roof in no time.
Many thanks Lee for the lovely comment. I’ve followed a few model railway channels on RUclips over time, good inspiration and tips, but only recently figured out how to create and load my own video, so plucked up the courage to load a few up! Regarding the layout, it commenced about 13 years ago, not a full-time hobby or project, but steady progress over the years; still lots on the to-do list! I’m hoping to have time this weekend to create and load a new video (introduction to the DP fleet) ... watch this space! 👍
@@ModelRailway like @Lee Greenwood, I have never seen this layout either. I don't build model railways myself but am an avid follower of Daveclass 47 & Everard Junction. What I have just watched is bloody brilliant and, well bloody impressive! Can't wait to see more!!!
Many thanks! Glad you enjoyed … and I’ve recently added a few more loco sidings below the main layout! I’m planning to record a layout update video soon that will show these … as well as some recent arrivals! 👍
First visit to you channel and I must say I am very impressed. As a former exhibitior of N gauge layouts and now retired due to ill health with my exhibition layout set up at home, I take special interest in home layouts. Excellent all over and I have subscribed!! Cheers, Bob
Many thanks Bob for the kind comments and best wishes with your health. Which exhibition layouts did you have? I might have seen them ... Regards, Mark
@@ModelRailway Moorcock Junction (the layout built by Andy Calvert before he so sadly passed away). Now I have Armathwaite which was built by Howard Staniforth and myself and is currently being highly modified when health allows.
Thanks Kev ... and yes, quite a few hours over time! The layout has taken approx 13yrs so far, still plenty on the to-do list ... and overall it’s pretty reliable; not perfect though (just like the real thing!) Regards, Mark
OMG!! Absolutely wonderful, I’ve seen a few layouts & Railtrak movements, including American layouts and engines, but this is by far the best. The variety of angles, track layouts and engine movements are spectacular and a look like a lot of serious fun. They bring the whole track layout and engine variety to life, even without the sound effects. I had to watch it twice!!
Thanks so much for the tour and fulfilling the request in my last comment. Superb layout with loads of atmosphere and detail. Really appreciate showing the fiddle yard as it’s always useful to see how others handle this in a roundy roundy layout. I also like the upper station for the additional operational interest and storage it provides. Look forward to seeing more updates and running sessions. Cheers
Many thanks ... I had thought about a layout tour as a kind of introduction to the layout, but when I saw your previous comment, gave me the nudge to actually create one! I know what you mean ... I find fiddle yards etc interesting at exhibitions 👍
First time i have come across this too, dream layout in a couple of words. To have the space for long flowing curves like that, running full length trains is something most of us wish we could do. Layouts like this give you inspiration and ideas, this is truly amazing so much of interest and such a great standard.
Hi, thank you so much for taking the time to do this layout. It's great seeing video and pictures in magazines but somehow a tour round just puts everything in context that bit more. Your layout is very well planned and well built too, I especially like your great looking trackwork. I think I said that last time I saw one of your videos on here. Anyway it is a truely great layout and something for me to aim towards, even though not my era, I think you have done a great job. Thanks so much and looking forward to more. best regards Dave.
Many thanks for the comments Dave. I’m glad I spent quite a bit of time planning the layout, only a small number of things I would have done different with the benefit of hindsight (eg a couple of point motors situated too close to a baseboard support underneath!), but overall I’m pleased with the progress and reliability so far ... still many projects to progress! I’ve subscribed to your impressive channel and layout as well, will have a look at your videos ... regards, Mark
Wow this is some layout very impressed. Lots of lines to choose from and it seems you can run several trains at a time. The cameos on the corners are brilliant, something different from corner to corner. The terminus is really nice and nice long trains to boot. I have enjoyed the journey.
Many thanks Guy for the lovely comment ... glad you enjoyed the tour and seeing different aspects of the layout. I’ve tried to design and build it to allow plenty of operational interest while without it being too cluttered 👍 Regards, Mark
Hi,my name is Phil it looks good I did 50yrs on the footplate 8yrs on steam i started at edgeley shed in 1961in 1962 I was made a fireman at Trafford Park shed 1964 back to edgeley I finished my time out at longsight as a driver I worked on a number of the real thing but a great layout Regards Phil.
Hi Phil, many thanks for the lovely comment and hope you enjoyed your career on the footplate ... I bet you have plenty of stories during that time! I was fortunate enough a few years ago as part of my work role to have a few cab rides along the WCML and the North Staffs line is certainly a challenging route to learn and drive as there’s many less features along it compared to other routes ... so I admire the skills of yourself and your profession, and slightly envious of all the miles behind the variety of traction over the years! Regards, Mark
That was so impressive to watch I loved it, so realistic - must have been a nightmare to plan and build but it was all worth it well done, this is by far the best WCML layout I have seen, it's a real inspiration. Thanks for sharing it with us.
Thanks Chris! 👍 The layout was good fun actually to plan and build ... it’s taken approx 13yrs to get to where it is today, still lots more to do ... but taking my time and modelling/building when time and mojo allows! I took extra time to plan and design the layout, especially using plenty of lining paper and Peco turnout templates before and baseboards were built .... I’ve only made a couple of major changes since the original plan; as the saying goes .... measure twice, cut once! Glad you enjoyed .... Regards, Mark
Wow what an amazing layout! Really captures the WCML in the good old days. The attention to detail over such a large layout is immense. I've subscribed 👍
Enjoyed the tour? This is an awesome layout. The space to have full length trains on lovely long curves, overhead wires that so few model and it seems fully scenic (yes theres always more to do) Could just watch trains running all day Great job. Peter
Many thanks for the comment .... there’s a track plan on the first page of my thread on RMWeb (link in the description) ... the track plan was also published in the Model Rail magazine article (September 2020 issue). Regards, Mark
Many thanks! My layout is currently ‘DC/analogue’ only but I’m open minded about converting to DCC in the future ... perhaps I could dub a train horn at some stage, watch this space! 👍
wow - that is an awesome motivation and inspiration. I am about to start my first ever build. Seriously impressed at how realistic it is. I came across this by chance - glad I did - im going to watch all your videos. Thanks
Many thanks ... glad you enjoyed and hope you also managed to watch the other videos I’ve loaded so far. Good luck with your own layout ... there’s plenty of resources that can help, hope it progresses well! Regards, Mark
Absolutely fantastic, I could sit and watch things go by on that layout all day :) I was happy with just two circles of track on a baseboard in my loft :D
Just joined, truly amazing layout, you've really captured the essence of a main line with the size and detail of scenary etc. Cant believe how faultless and smooth the train run for the entire vid. I look forward to watching previous vids and upcoming ones.
Hi James, many thanks for the comment and compliment ... the new mechanisms on the models really help and I do like reliability and smooth running .... although when I created the ‘meet the fleet’ video and ran some of the older Lima loco’s, I was pleasantly surprised how well many of them ran. Regards, Mark
This is great ! I think it helps when the trains are controlled at not too faster speed as seems to be on this layout, this all looks so realistic well done to you.really good video the best I have seen thankyou.
Thanks Rick ... I do like reasonably realistic operating (with some modellers licence) ... glad you enjoyed. The top-speed of the Pendolino and a few others is very very fast ... so really have to reign it in! Regards, Mark 👍
Many thanks for the lovely comment ... and yes, I always liked the multi-track West Coast Main Line and was able to incorporate 4-track running with some extra bits ... Regards, Mark
Wow this is amazing. I was looking for inspiration and I'm also torn between similar eras, now I just don't know what to concentrate on first as you've done so much lol. I really wish I had this much space and i love how much use you've put to that space. Thanks for sharing and I look forward to seeing more.
Many thanks ... and how about having a layout with multiple era’s? Mine has plenty of stock/loco’s from the Virgin trains era, stored in the lower fiddle yard ... good luck with your project 👍 Regards, Mark
Many thanks! Hopefully a dream can result in reality for you one day .... I started with a small train set type layout and over the years, grown a collection and eventually the current layout ... regards, Mark
Many thanks ... hope you enjoyed the tour 👍 I’ve used Railmatch sleeper grime around the layout to weather/tone down the ballast, although I’ve left some areas a bit cleaner to try to simulate more recent track renewals etc.
I agree. The era is great. I as a kid remember BR trains from what I seen on TV and Hornby models. Was only on 2 BR trains on a day trip from Dun Laoghaire - Holyhead then a train from Holyhead to Llandudno and the return train before the Ferry back to Ireland. My train models are all BR stock from when I was young. There were no C.I.E stock avail in those days except made by Lima and the quality was not great and the coupling if I remember correct was not compatible with Hornby. On another note I will give this layout the WOW factor. Well done and worth looking at it from beginning to end. Would be good to see more trains running at the same time. But thoroughly enjoyable. From an Irish Enthusiast...
This is gorgeous. I love it how you've managed to make it so interesting even though trains are just running circles. Wonderful landscapes in the corners. Brilliant and very inspiring!
Probably the most fantastic model railway layout I've ever seen. Work of art.
This is insane!!! Much love from the US! The 80s/90s era has been my favorite for British railroads since I grew up, especially Intercity/NSE. I love the small attention to detail, this layout has to be the best I have ever seen, especially for how much you crammed into a small area!! I'm also quite impressed with your smooth trackwork and DC operation, even down to banking the curves. So beautiful!
Many thanks for the lovely message .... I tried to build this layout so that it’s reliable (so that I’m not always fixing derailments or having to poke to get a train moving!) and so far so good .... I do have the odd issue from time to time but overall it’s pretty reliable. Yes, I used a little bit of card under the main line curves to get some banking, along with transitions to the straights to get some smooth running. Stay safe and healthy over in the US 👍 Regards, Mark
A layout that makes you think about giving up! Truly amazing and a pleasure to watch.
Many thanks for the compliment and glad you enjoyed .... but please don’t give up!! Hopefully if anything, watching gives you extra mojo and motivation to either progress your layout or to develop one ... Regards, Mark
A truly superb detailed railway and a great journey with the class 47, thanks.
Wow!! This layout is amazing! You've totally captured the spirit of the WCML I could sit and watch this for hours!
Very impressive layout . Not just the quality of it, which is superb, but the operational interest . Like you I like watching the trains go round nut also like them to start and finish somewhere .
Gosh. A truely amazing railway system that is well thought out and conceived and very well constructed. Its not my era but the whole system is a joy to watch. I shall watch this again - several times.
Absolutely fantastic. The detail and realism is first class in every respect. Great to see a layout that mirrors the long trains we see on the network.
Many thanks for the lovely comment, glad you enjoyed ... and yes, I do like seeing full length trains as well and I’ve been lucky enough to have been able to build reasonable sized layout to run decent length trains. Regards, Mark
What an atmosphere! So much of this layout reminds me of Edge Hill, Runcorn and perhaps Lichfield and Trent Valley. It is quite superb and your video a pleasure to watch. Congratulations!
Many thanks Phillip for the kind comment .... and yes! There’s a few sections from the WCML I’ve used to try to capture the atmosphere ... the through station is a bit of Stafford and Warrington BQ ... the curved viaduct of Runcorn/Dutton ... sweeping curves between Stafford and Crewe ... had I had more space I would have attempted Willesden TMD! Regards, Mark
Cracking layout, I look forward to seeing more videos. Like the long trains, sweeping curves and multi track sections.
Extremely impressive modelling and layout youare so lucky to have the space. Great to see a really well thought out track plan where you can really work your train across the loops and terminii to better simulate real routes and correespondingly longer interesting journies. Thanks for an inspiring tour. Stephen
Hi there Mark. I first watched this 2 years ago and it triggered me to start thinking about the hobby and building my first layout. 2 years on I'm completely hooked and, having also watched your other videos - particularly the 'time lapse build', my build is progressing nicely in my loft; very much inspired by your design i.e. a DC 'roundy-roundy' with through station, terminus, TMD and various storage areas underneath. Knowing the time yours took to get to this point has really helped keep my patience in check and getting into the hobby has done wonders for my general wellbeing! So, sincerest thanks for sharing your wonderful model!
A brilliant video to showcase the wonderful layout you have created. I really enjoyed the nine or so minutes which has left me wanting to see more. Aside form the obvious quality of the build and detailing, the most noticeable thing to me was the beautifully smooth running across every inch of the track. Thank you very much for sharing this with us.
Absolutely awesome. Your main viaduct looks like the railway viaduct found in Stockport. The largest brick structure in the UK.
Many thanks … Stockport viaduct is certainly huge and very impressive! I did use the viaduct at Dutton as some inspiration as it’s curved and double-track (the one near Runcorn on the Liverpool side of the Mersey) but does have a similar feel as Stockport. 👍
I stumbled across this layout looking for video on creating rivers. You have come SO FAR since then! The excellence of your modeling and detail work are clear to anyone watching the video. What may not be as obvious is the amazing track planning and electrical work that have provided a world class layout! Hats off to you!
Many thanks Glenn for the compliments ... and yes, the electrics have been fun ... fortunately I actually enjoyed installing over time and even enjoy soldering! I may include a tour of the electrics/control panel in a future video if you/others are interested ... regards, Mark
@@ModelRailway Please do a vido of the electrics and control panel, I am as interested in what's under the boards as what is running on the top. I run DCC as I find it simple to setup and operate, but woudn't have a clue how to wire multiple lines and contorllers. I would also be interested in video of how you made old Lima and Hornby chasis more electrically reliable. I used to run my Hornby and Lima class 86 & 87's on Lima's overhead catanery back in the late 80's early 90's, with reasonable sucess, however the are not as reliable running on DCC. Thanks for sharing your superb layout with us.
@@hughrooney6933 Thanks Hugh ... and some good requests and ideas for a future video; I’ve made a note of them. I’m thinking of a ‘behind the scenes’ video to show the control panel, points, OLE, signalling etc. Meanwhile, regarding the older Lima and Hornby loco’s ... I’ve found that having clean wheels and contacts really help; also some have additional pickups fitted to increase reliability. The Hornby Class 86’s and 90’s have the ‘Limby’ style chassis fitted with the upgraded motor; so no more Ringfield motors around the layout! Quite a few of the Lima Class 87’s do have the older ‘pancake’ style motors ... again, clean wheels and pickups help. Regards, Mark
This is fantastic. Exactly the kind of layout I'd love to build , same 1980s period but at the Glasgow end of the WCML.
Many thanks ... and go for it! Unfortunately I missed out visiting Scotland during the 80’s (too young!); my first trip was in the mid 90s ... I would have liked to have seen the steel coil trains roll past, along with the early AC loco’s and variety of other loco’s and liveries ... Regards, Mark
Keep coming back to it brilliant!
Many thanks John, glad you’re still enjoying 👍
Wow thanks for sharing your layout tour. It looks absolutely amazing. I like your storage yards and the uncoupling system. Really enjoyed watching thanks again for sharing cheers Andy
Amazing 👏👏👏 thank you for sharing
Many thanks Steve ... glad you enjoyed 👍 Regards, Mark
What an absolutely stunning layout. You have to be congratulated for creating such an interesting, detailed and well designed model. The cricket pitch is a fantastic idea for a corner. The track plan so impressive. Thanks for sharing your layout with us all.
Nicely done video. I wouldn’t have thought than running a ‘simple’ oval would be interesting, but the creation of fast lines, multiple platform stations and working loco yards has great appeal. A well planned and beautifully executed railway. Congrats from Oz.
Many thanks for the lovely comment. When I developed the plan for the layout I wanted something where I could either set it up and running to watch the trains go by ... or where I also had operational interest, with the terminal station, loops, junctions between tracks and the yards. Thanks again, Mark
truly amazing - really captured the late 1980’s / early 1990 era with the mixed rakes mk2/mk3 not to mention some trains with dvt whilst others have the mk1 brake van.
for some reason the opening scene at patriot reminds me of trains arriving at preston then heading out over s&c.
Many thanks Christopher .... glad you enjoyed. I heard last week that Bachmann are bringing out some Motor-rail GUV vans .... so it’s a bit tempting to purchase a few to recreate the rake where the vans were attached and detached, especially to the DVT! I’ve been aboard a few of the diesel drags over the S&C with the loco changes at each end ... lovely trip and memories. Regards, Mark
good filming and it's the first time I've thought that the train is real in speed and context. Great job.
An excellent model the colour light signals and overhead wires certainly bring the feel of the railway in the 80s and 90s.
Very nicely done; thanks for sharing. Nice to see signalling being taken seriously!
You've certainly made use of the available space. So now all you have to do, is get the Catenary working. For Baseboard joins you'll need clip on - clip off Sommerfeldt catenary wire sections, under a little tension. It does work, as I used this system on a number of N Gauge exhibition layouts with numerous baseboard joins. Indeed I even had one or two electric locos actually powered from the overhead, so they could be used for shunting coaching stock, without interfering with any other rail fed loco. This feature had many viewers at shows, fascinated and perplexed as to how it was done !!!
Many thanks for the comment! Regarding the catenary, it’s purely cosmetic … the Dapol plastic masts aren’t strong enough to withstand a pantograph running and as the layout isn’t an exhibition layout, it’s primarily for myself at home and one-person operation … then I wanted reliability to be a priority. I’ve begun to set pantograph heights just below the minimum wire height and pleased with the results so far … I know it’s not perfect, but from a realistic viewing distance looks effective. I do admire those like yourself that attempt pantographs in contact … good effort! Great to see others modelling electrics though and enjoying the hobby! 👍 ps Plenty of other items on the to-do list besides the OLE … watch this space!
@@ModelRailway The trick with catenary is to place every third or fourth mast 1mm too far from the previous mast to obtain a little tension. Also catenary wire can only go in straight lines. So in tighter corners the masts have to be a lot closer together, to ensure the wire stays above the flat central section of any pantograph. Takes a little trial and error to get used to how it all works. But once you get your first pantograph running on the overhead, it becomes addictive.
The Sommerfeldt & Viesmann ranges (Both German made) include certain BR type masts, and of course all those clever little bits to cope with pointwork, and even working tensioners. These two ranges are of course almost totally interchangeable. Their catalogues also give details of how to install catenary. Happy Modelling.
That's probably the best layout I've ever seen.. amazing
Many thanks Graham for the lovely comment, glad you enjoyed the layout tour … and I’ve added a few more bits to the layout since that was recorded and uploaded a few videos of the progress as well! Kind regards, Mark
RUclips is spoiling me. Another excellent layout. Thankyou. Looking forward to future running sessions.
First thing that popped in to my head was how have I not seen this before, as it’s absolutely my kind of thing. I see your first video was uploaded about 6 weeks ago, so that explains a lot. This is epic. So glad you’ve decided to share it with everybody and really happy you commented on my Facebook post with a link. This alone has made my day. When did you start building this layout?
Only a couple of hundred subscribers. Something tells me that is going to go through the roof in no time.
Many thanks Lee for the lovely comment. I’ve followed a few model railway channels on RUclips over time, good inspiration and tips, but only recently figured out how to create and load my own video, so plucked up the courage to load a few up! Regarding the layout, it commenced about 13 years ago, not a full-time hobby or project, but steady progress over the years; still lots on the to-do list! I’m hoping to have time this weekend to create and load a new video (introduction to the DP fleet) ... watch this space! 👍
@@ModelRailway like @Lee Greenwood, I have never seen this layout either.
I don't build model railways myself but am an avid follower of Daveclass 47 & Everard Junction.
What I have just watched is bloody brilliant and, well bloody impressive! Can't wait to see more!!!
Awesome layout and filming with the narration. 👍👌👌
Probably the best layout I have ever seen!
Many thanks for the lovely compliment ... far too flattering! 😳👍 Regards, Mark
Amazing layout. Love the storage solutions especially the ‘Underground’ area. Brilliant 👍
Many thanks! Glad you enjoyed … and I’ve recently added a few more loco sidings below the main layout! I’m planning to record a layout update video soon that will show these … as well as some recent arrivals! 👍
@@ModelRailway ditto I’m due an video, look forward to your next video 👍
This is a truly wonderful layout. So glad you’ve decided to share it on here. Thoroughly looking forward to future videos.
First visit to you channel and I must say I am very impressed. As a former exhibitior of N gauge layouts and now retired due to ill health with my exhibition layout set up at home, I take special interest in home layouts. Excellent all over and I have subscribed!!
Cheers, Bob
Many thanks Bob for the kind comments and best wishes with your health. Which exhibition layouts did you have? I might have seen them ... Regards, Mark
@@ModelRailway Moorcock Junction (the layout built by Andy Calvert before he so sadly passed away). Now I have Armathwaite which was built by Howard Staniforth and myself and is currently being highly modified when health allows.
Excellent! Layout runs a treat, too. There's loads of man-hours work here (I know, I've been building a layout on-and-off for 40 years!). Well done!
Thanks Kev ... and yes, quite a few hours over time! The layout has taken approx 13yrs so far, still plenty on the to-do list ... and overall it’s pretty reliable; not perfect though (just like the real thing!) Regards, Mark
OMG!! Absolutely wonderful, I’ve seen a few layouts & Railtrak movements, including American layouts and engines, but this is by far the best. The variety of angles, track layouts and engine movements are spectacular and a look like a lot of serious fun. They bring the whole track layout and engine variety to life, even without the sound effects. I had to watch it twice!!
Thanks Gary for the lovely comment. 👍
Thanks so much for the tour and fulfilling the request in my last comment. Superb layout with loads of atmosphere and detail. Really appreciate showing the fiddle yard as it’s always useful to see how others handle this in a roundy roundy layout. I also like the upper station for the additional operational interest and storage it provides. Look forward to seeing more updates and running sessions. Cheers
Many thanks ... I had thought about a layout tour as a kind of introduction to the layout, but when I saw your previous comment, gave me the nudge to actually create one! I know what you mean ... I find fiddle yards etc interesting at exhibitions 👍
First time i have come across this too, dream layout in a couple of words. To have the space for long flowing curves like that, running full length trains is something most of us wish we could do. Layouts like this give you inspiration and ideas, this is truly amazing so much of interest and such a great standard.
This layout is absolutely stunning. Thank you so much for sharing there’s so much inspiration here.
Fantastic! I hope one day to build something like this based on the WCML too.
Thanks Gareth for the kind comment, good luck with your own layout as well 👍 Regards, Mark
Hi, thank you so much for taking the time to do this layout. It's great seeing video and pictures in magazines but somehow a tour round just puts everything in context that bit more. Your layout is very well planned and well built too, I especially like your great looking trackwork. I think I said that last time I saw one of your videos on here. Anyway it is a truely great layout and something for me to aim towards, even though not my era, I think you have done a great job. Thanks so much and looking forward to more. best regards Dave.
Many thanks for the comments Dave. I’m glad I spent quite a bit of time planning the layout, only a small number of things I would have done different with the benefit of hindsight (eg a couple of point motors situated too close to a baseboard support underneath!), but overall I’m pleased with the progress and reliability so far ... still many projects to progress! I’ve subscribed to your impressive channel and layout as well, will have a look at your videos ... regards, Mark
@@ModelRailway Thank you Mark for your comments and subscribing to my channel too. Much appreciated. Best regards Dave.
Saw your layout on FB so came for a look. Very impressive
Many thanks Richard, glad you found the tour video and enjoyed! 👍
Absolutely brilliant, it's so nice to see the "what we don't see" bits that actually make the layout function.
That is a brilliant layout! If I had the space to build one, that's exactly the sort of thing I would see myself building. Keep up the great work!
Agreed, a fantastic layout
Wow this is some layout very impressed. Lots of lines to choose from and it seems you can run several trains at a time. The cameos on the corners are brilliant, something different from corner to corner. The terminus is really nice and nice long trains to boot. I have enjoyed the journey.
Many thanks Guy for the lovely comment ... glad you enjoyed the tour and seeing different aspects of the layout. I’ve tried to design and build it to allow plenty of operational interest while without it being too cluttered 👍 Regards, Mark
one of my uttermost favourite layouts!!
Many thanks for the lovely message 👍
Hi,my name is Phil it looks good I did 50yrs on the footplate 8yrs on steam i started at edgeley shed in 1961in 1962 I was made a fireman at Trafford Park shed 1964 back to edgeley I finished my time out at longsight as a driver I worked on a number of the real thing but a great layout Regards Phil.
Hi Phil, many thanks for the lovely comment and hope you enjoyed your career on the footplate ... I bet you have plenty of stories during that time! I was fortunate enough a few years ago as part of my work role to have a few cab rides along the WCML and the North Staffs line is certainly a challenging route to learn and drive as there’s many less features along it compared to other routes ... so I admire the skills of yourself and your profession, and slightly envious of all the miles behind the variety of traction over the years! Regards, Mark
Fantastic layout, really looks the part and evokes some great memories of my younger days staring at trains around the London area!
That was so impressive to watch I loved it, so realistic - must have been a nightmare to plan and build but it was all worth it well done, this is by far the best WCML layout I have seen, it's a real inspiration. Thanks for sharing it with us.
Thanks Chris! 👍 The layout was good fun actually to plan and build ... it’s taken approx 13yrs to get to where it is today, still lots more to do ... but taking my time and modelling/building when time and mojo allows! I took extra time to plan and design the layout, especially using plenty of lining paper and Peco turnout templates before and baseboards were built .... I’ve only made a couple of major changes since the original plan; as the saying goes .... measure twice, cut once! Glad you enjoyed .... Regards, Mark
@@ModelRailway I'd be grateful Mark if I could reply to you via an email if possible, kind regards, chris.
Sure ... what’s your email addy?
@@ModelRailway it is- c.uddin@yahoo.com
Well now you have set the bar high. Excellent everything! Please , more long videos
Wow ! That must have taken Some planning and construction, you should be rightly proud !
Brilliant
What a layout!
Thanks so much.
Look forward to more?
Many thanks Howard for the lovely comment … it’s been a hectic few weeks but I’m hoping to record a new video very soon … watch this space! 👍
Superb layout and thoroughly modern locos.
Love the depiction of non 125 and 225 intercitys with the odd livery coaches as we would often see in the day.
Very nice. Taken ages to see the last coach passing.
Thanks for the compliment and comment 👍
Wow the best model railway I have seen on youtube
Many thanks Craig for the lovely compliment ... I’ve still got plenty of improvement on the to-do list ... watch this space! Regards, Mark
Wow what an amazing layout! Really captures the WCML in the good old days. The attention to detail over such a large layout is immense. I've subscribed 👍
Enjoyed the tour? This is an awesome layout. The space to have full length trains on lovely long curves, overhead wires that so few model and it seems fully scenic (yes theres always more to do) Could just watch trains running all day Great job. Peter
Thanks Peter for the lovely comment .... and currently loading a longer video ... hope you’ll enjoy 👍 Regards, Mark
A track plan and dims would be lovely. Just needs sound chips to be perfect! Well done sir!
Many thanks for the comment .... there’s a track plan on the first page of my thread on RMWeb (link in the description) ... the track plan was also published in the Model Rail magazine article (September 2020 issue). Regards, Mark
Great stuff, thanks for taking the time to share
Glad you enjoyed 👍
An amazing layout. So well planned and executed. The lay out tour was excellent and a pleasure to watch.
Many thanks Nihal, glad you enjoyed 👍 Regards, Mark
Bloody FANTASTIC! Detail and size is very impressive. A few Trains Horns please.
Many thanks! My layout is currently ‘DC/analogue’ only but I’m open minded about converting to DCC in the future ... perhaps I could dub a train horn at some stage, watch this space! 👍
wow - that is an awesome motivation and inspiration. I am about to start my first ever build. Seriously impressed at how realistic it is. I came across this by chance - glad I did - im going to watch all your videos. Thanks
Many thanks ... glad you enjoyed and hope you also managed to watch the other videos I’ve loaded so far. Good luck with your own layout ... there’s plenty of resources that can help, hope it progresses well! Regards, Mark
Absolutely fantastic, I could sit and watch things go by on that layout all day :) I was happy with just two circles of track on a baseboard in my loft :D
Absolutely amazing! Looking forward for more videos!
Just joined, truly amazing layout, you've really captured the essence of a main line with the size and detail of scenary etc. Cant believe how faultless and smooth the train run for the entire vid. I look forward to watching previous vids and upcoming ones.
Hi James, many thanks for the comment and compliment ... the new mechanisms on the models really help and I do like reliability and smooth running .... although when I created the ‘meet the fleet’ video and ran some of the older Lima loco’s, I was pleasantly surprised how well many of them ran. Regards, Mark
Superb layout can appreciate how many hours have gone into achieving this .
first time ive seen this channel. your layout looks brilliant and its very organised and well built
Many thanks Ben for the compliments … glad you enjoyed and a new video being loaded today! 👍
Brilliant! Lovely layout. A couple of red balls on the track above the Cricket Pitch would look good! 😆 🏏
I enjoyed the tour, thank you. There is a terrific amount of work gone into this layout. Well done.
110 % best layout I've seen truly Amazing...
Beautiful layout, brilliantly done
What an absolute gem, This is my new benchmark! Fantastic layout! Cheers... Ben
Wow, what a layout the level of detail and scenery is unbelievable and the video describes all the lines and the route excellently! Top stuff
Many thanks .... glad you enjoyed! Regards, Mark
What a setup!! So many interesting things!
This is great ! I think it helps when the trains are controlled at not too faster speed as seems to be on this layout, this all looks so realistic well done to you.really good video the best I have seen thankyou.
Thanks Rick ... I do like reasonably realistic operating (with some modellers licence) ... glad you enjoyed. The top-speed of the Pendolino and a few others is very very fast ... so really have to reign it in! Regards, Mark 👍
Fantastic layout my era
Awesome layout, a joy to watch 👍
Many thanks .... glad you enjoyed watching the tour! 👍
Fantastic - what an incredible layout!
Many thanks for the compliment, glad you enjoyed 👍
I can only dream to have a layout like this, absolutely fantastic. Just subbed too
Hi Andy, glad you enjoyed and thanks for subbing 👍 Best wishes, Mark
Wow! What good layout! Thank you for the video.
Quality layout. Great subtitles to guide the viewers to.
Wow. Truly amazing work. If only I had the space, not to mention the talent
What a fantastic layout, took my breath away.
Many thanks Mark for the compliment, hope you enjoyed ... Regards, Mark
Good lord! That's an impressive layout. This one really does feel like a mainline!
Many thanks for the lovely comment ... and yes, I always liked the multi-track West Coast Main Line and was able to incorporate 4-track running with some extra bits ... Regards, Mark
This is utterly amazing 👏👏👏👏 thank you for the layout tour 👍
Excellent video and layout, I really enjoyed this. Well done. 👍
Wow... fantastic layout.
Wow! Your layout is amazing!! The catenary is something else.... so good! 😮👍
Love your layout. What a fantastic video...thank you.
Wow this is amazing. I was looking for inspiration and I'm also torn between similar eras, now I just don't know what to concentrate on first as you've done so much lol. I really wish I had this much space and i love how much use you've put to that space. Thanks for sharing and I look forward to seeing more.
Many thanks ... and how about having a layout with multiple era’s? Mine has plenty of stock/loco’s from the Virgin trains era, stored in the lower fiddle yard ... good luck with your project 👍 Regards, Mark
Just Wow. So many options for routes.
Great looking layout....Tony
Many thanks Tony, glad you enjoyed! Another video currently uploading as it’s been a while! 👍
Awesome layout fella. Long run for one train too.
Awesome layout, love all the detail
A fantastic layout, something I can only dream of!
Many thanks! Hopefully a dream can result in reality for you one day .... I started with a small train set type layout and over the years, grown a collection and eventually the current layout ... regards, Mark
The track looks excellent. Brake block brown all over.
Many thanks ... hope you enjoyed the tour 👍 I’ve used Railmatch sleeper grime around the layout to weather/tone down the ballast, although I’ve left some areas a bit cleaner to try to simulate more recent track renewals etc.
Wow, that is just simply amazing. Bravo!
The exact era I would choose for a layout. It’s absolutely perfect.
and what Era is that?
@@kishascape tail end of BR at the turn of the 80’s into the 90’s.
I agree. The era is great. I as a kid remember BR trains from what I seen on TV and Hornby models. Was only on 2 BR trains on a day trip from Dun Laoghaire - Holyhead then a train from Holyhead to Llandudno and the return train before the Ferry back to Ireland. My train models are all BR stock from when I was young. There were no C.I.E stock avail in those days except made by Lima and the quality was not great and the coupling if I remember correct was not compatible with Hornby. On another note I will give this layout the WOW factor. Well done and worth looking at it from beginning to end. Would be good to see more trains running at the same time. But thoroughly enjoyable. From an Irish Enthusiast...
This is gorgeous. I love it how you've managed to make it so interesting even though trains are just running circles. Wonderful landscapes in the corners. Brilliant and very inspiring!