Main Lines: 1st November 2025
Welcome to this week's Main Lines.
Rail usage across the UK continues its post-pandemic rebound, with passenger journeys and kilometres both showing steady growth over the past year. Network Rail has completed a £3.6 million refurbishment at Filey station and is advising passengers of major track, point, and drainage works taking place in the Coventry and Birmingham area this weekend. Scenic routes are also receiving attention, with the Conwy Valley Line in Wales reopening after a £1.4 million upgrade designed to improve resilience against extreme weather. Meanwhile, the shift toward public ownership of rail operators continues, with Greater Anglia joining the list of services now under government control, meaning that nearly half of all UK passenger journeys are now operated publicly.
In the model railway news, we have had a quieter week in terms of announcements. The main talking points have been the announcement by Hornby of new Steam and Diesel locomotives and the announcement of a new Railway Modeller special. Big news from us this week is that we have not one, but two significant sales this month, giving you the chance to save 10% on the Heljan and Piko ranges. If you are considering gifting a starter set this Christmas, the Piko range offers a wide range of options, making it the perfect time to buy!
Hornby Announce New Locomotives: October 2025
Hornby have just announced a range of new steam and diesel locomotives. This includes new SR, LMS and BR steam locomotives and a range of Class 37s.
Hornby Latest Releases: 28th October 2025
Several previously announced models have either just arrived or are landing shortly across both 00 and TT:120 collections.
2026 Railway Modeller Special Coming Soon
Peco and The Railway Modeller are pleased to announce the imminent arrival of the much-loved Railway Modeller Special. This fantastic book will make a wonderful gift for Christmas, or a perfect read for any avid modeller.
New Modelcraft 60ml Syringe Coming Soon
A general-purpose syringe, ideal for accurately dispensing colours, glues, and greases, this new syringe is fitted with a rubber plunger that can be entirely removed for easy cleaning and drying.
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.