L&MR Planet Steam Locomotive

L&MR Planet Steam Locomotive

1:76 scale model produced by Hornby. This model is ready-to-run straight out of the box and would make a excellent addition to any model railway collection.

Details

One of the most exciting releases in the Hornby 2026 range, the Liverpool & Manchester Railway 'Planet' brings a true railway pioneer to OO gauge. Representing Robert Stephenson's groundbreaking locomotive design of 1830, this beautifully detailed model captures one of the most important milestones in railway history and is an essential addition for collectors of early steam locomotives and historically significant railway models.

Building on the success of Hornby's popular Era 1 locomotive range, the new L&MR Planet combines precision engineering with high-quality die-cast and plastic mouldings to faithfully recreate the distinctive appearance of this revolutionary locomotive. Finished to represent the preserved replica displayed at Manchester's Science and Industry Museum, the model features authentic wood-grain boiler detailing, gold-plated fittings and an impressive level of fine detail throughout.

Whether displayed as a collector's piece or operated on a heritage-themed layout, the Planet offers a unique opportunity to own one of the earliest and most influential locomotive designs in railway history.

This highly detailed model has been developed from extensive research into the preserved replica and original Stephenson design. The locomotive features a die-cast chassis and tender body, ensuring excellent running characteristics and durability. A modern coreless motor provides smooth and efficient performance, while all-wheel electrical pick-up helps maintain reliable operation.

The model includes a wealth of separately fitted components, including steam pipes, control levers, strengthening truss rods, handrails and separate buffers. The highly detailed cab backhead enhances realism, while the authentic wood-grain printed boiler and gold-plated dome and fittings faithfully reproduce the appearance of the preserved locomotive. An accessory pack is included, and the model is suitable for layouts with 2nd radius curves and above.

Features:

• 1:76 Scale Model
• Analogue DC Model
• This model mainly operates in Britain
• Decorated in L&MR company markings
• Best suited to 438mm radius curves
• Authentic preserved-condition livery based on the Manchester museum replica
• Die-cast locomotive chassis and tender body for excellent weight and durability
• Smooth-running coreless motor with all-wheel electrical pick-up
• Next18 DCC decoder socket compatible with the HM7000 system
• Detailed cab interior with decorated crew figures and numerous separately fitted parts

Historical Background

The Planet was the ninth locomotive constructed for the Liverpool & Manchester Railway and entered service in 1830. Designed by Robert Stephenson following the success of the famous Rocket, Planet represented a major step forward in locomotive engineering and became the first Stephenson locomotive to feature inside cylinders, a layout that would influence locomotive development for decades.

The design proved highly successful, leading to the construction of additional Planet-type locomotives by both Robert Stephenson & Co. and other manufacturers using Stephenson's plans. However, the rapid pace of railway development during the early nineteenth century meant that even advanced designs quickly became outdated, and the original Planet was withdrawn from service by 1841.

Although the original locomotive did not survive, a fully operational replica was constructed in 1992 by the Friends of the Museum of Science and Industry Manchester. This remarkable recreation preserves the appearance and engineering principles of one of Britain's most important early locomotives, allowing modern audiences to appreciate a design that helped shape the future of rail transport.