Main Lines: 17th October 2026
Welcome to this week's Main Lines.
In the real-world railways this week, Derby was confirmed as the location for the new Great British Railways headquarters, alongside plans for up to 600 railway apprenticeships. Network Rail outlined a £27.8 million upgrade to Dolphin Junction near Slough to improve services into London Paddington. Meanwhile, ten new railway weather stations have been installed across Wales and the Borders to improve monitoring of severe conditions.
On the heritage scene, the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway held its Mixed Traction Extravaganza last weekend, while the Bluebell Railway's Giants of Steam gala gets underway today, featuring visiting locomotives 71000 Duke of Gloucester, 92134 and 41313. The East Lancashire Railway also begins its Autumn Steam Gala, while the Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway prepares for this weekend's Autumn Gala, welcoming visiting miniature locomotives Northern Rock from the Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway and Soony from the Perrygrove Railway.
In the world of model railways, Fleischmann and Roco announced limited-run HO and N Gauge models celebrating 55 years of Germany's InterCity services, including specially liveried Class 101 electric locomotives and commemorative coach sets. Hornby previewed its forthcoming late-October OO Gauge arrivals, including a BR Class K1 steam locomotive, Amoco tank wagons and additional RailRoad rolling stock. Meanwhile, Wills highlighted its extensive range of modern industrial building kits and accessories, including retail units, distribution depots, level crossings and scenic detailing products.
In This Issue:
British Model Railway News
Other News
British Model Railway News
Quarter 3 Releases
More exciting releases are on their way from Hornby, with a varied selection of locomotives, rolling stock and train sets arriving soon.
Product Highlights
This week, Layout Concepts showcases its bus wire and wiring accessories, demonstrating how straightforward DCC layout wiring can be with the right tools, reliable electrical connectors and the correct accessories for the job.
Modern Industrial Buildings
Bring a modern industrial or commercial setting to your model railway with the extensive range of Wills Modern OO/HO Scale Building Kits and Accessories from PECO.
European Model Railway News
Special Roco and Fleischmann Announcement
To celebrate 55 years of Germany's famous InterCity services, Roco and Fleischmann have announced a special collection of limited-run commemorative locomotives and coaches in both HO and N scales.
Latest Bargains
There has never been a better time to expand your European N Gauge model railway collection, with a fantastic selection of Fleischmann locomotives, coaches and wagons now available at bargain prices!
Latest Releases
October brings another exciting selection of new releases from PIKO, with a varied collection of locomotives, rolling stock, accessories and starter sets scheduled to arrive this month.
Latest Bargains
Discover a fantastic selection of Roco model railway bargains, with special prices across an extensive range of HO scale locomotives, passenger coaches, freight wagons and accessories.
Other News
Vehicle Latest Releases
October brings another exciting selection of new releases from Herpa, with an impressive range of detailed scale model cars, trucks and commercial vehicles joining the collection.
Wings Latest Releases
Herpa has an exciting selection of Wings aircraft models scheduled for release in October 2026, bringing together some of the world's most recognisable airlines alongside special liveries and anniversary editions.
New Item Announcements
A fantastic selection of new models from Wiking is on the way, featuring an exciting mix of classic cars, commercial vehicles, tractors and figures.
Check out the new items that have arrived into stock since the last Main Lines update. The list might be a bit long, but it's packed with exciting finds we think you'll love.
End of The Line
That's the end of the line for this week. We will be back next week with another packed edition of Main Lines.
Until then, Happy Modelling
Before you go...
If you are interested in modelling beyond the railways, why not check out one of our sister publications? Published monthly, check your email preferences to subscribe!
KITS & BITS
Your Monthly Model Kit Newsletter
Published First Friday of the Month
This newsletter will focus on everything plastic kit related, including news from Airfix, Tamiya, and Revell.
PIT STOP
Your Monthly Slot Car Newsletter
Published Second Sunday of the Month
This newsletter will focus on everything slot car related, including news from Scalextric, SCX and Carrera.
THE CABINET
Your Monthly Collectables Newsletter
Published Third Thursday of the Month
This newsletter will focus on everything collectables related, including Corgi, Oxford, and Herpa.