Main Lines: 24th January 2026
Welcome to this week's Main Lines.
This week in UK rail news brought a blend of progress and disruption: a major survey revealed that many blind and partially sighted passengers still struggle with platform gaps and inconsistent assistance, renewing calls for improved accessibility, while the Caledonian Sleeper introduced a new stop at Birmingham, marking its biggest route change in three decades. Thousands visited Avanti West Coast’s Railway 200 exhibition train at Crewe as bicentenary celebrations continued nationwide, and Siemens unveiled its new Desiro Verve trains for the UK market. Elsewhere, cable theft caused widespread disruption around St Albans, Aberdeen station announced weekend closures for major upgrade works, and HS2 once again made headlines amid ongoing controversy over rising costs and high-profile infrastructure decisions.
Model railway news, however, remained positive, with another raft of new announcements, dominated by those from the Hornby International family of brands. Also announced was a new Peco catalogue and new vehicles from Wiking and Herpa. This month also sees the closure of the order books for the Heljan Class 37s in O Scale, so if you are after one, get your orders in, as production quantities will be set based on the number of orders submitted.
In This Issue:
British Model Railway News
Dapol OO Scale Releases
Dapol’s OO scale February and March releases deliver a richly varied mix of motive power, rolling stock and practical upgrades, ideal for building authentic Great Western and British Rail scenes.
Dapol N Scale Releases
Dapol’s N scale February and March releases deliver a powerhouse line-up of modern and classic British traction, led by an extensive family of Class 33s and a comprehensive range of Class 66s
Dapol O Scale Releases
Dapol’s O Scale February and March releases bring yards, depots and terminals to life with a superbly detailed selection of wagons, containers and shunters’ vehicles spanning both heritage and modern operations.
Order Deadling Apporaching
January 30th is the pre-order deadline for Heljan's superb new O Scale Refurbished Class 37s. Reserve yours today to avoid missing out!
New Catalogue Available Now
The new Peco Catalogue – Your Peco Guide to Model Railways is now in stock and ready to ship, featuring a fresh new look featuring Peco’s proud 80-year badge on the front.
Continental Model Railway News
2026 TT Scale Range Announced
Arnold’s latest TT scale range blends heritage DR steam with iconic European diesels and modern heavy-haul power, from the SNCF CC 72000 to today’s Class 66 and 77. With many models available with factory-fitted DCC sound, it gives TT modellers everything needed to recreate classic main lines or modern freight in authentic detail.
2026 N Scale Range Announced
Arnold’s 2026 N scale range delivers a truly pan-European line-up, from legendary electrics like the DB BR 103 and SNCF classics to modern RENFE, Akiem and FS power, many with factory-fitted DCC sound. With EMUs, DMUs, prestige coach sets and a vast freight programme, it offers era-spanning variety and outstanding formation-building potential for every layout.
2026 Range Announced
Electrotren’s latest HO announcements showcase the distinctive character of Spanish railways, from imposing RENFE 151 steam locomotives to a wide family of iconic electrics spanning multiple eras. With many models available DCC-fitted or with factory sound, the range brings Iberian main-line power to life with immersive, ready-to-run realism.
2026 Range Announced
Jouef’s latest HO announcements celebrate French and European railways, from iconic steam and classic diesel to modern DMUs, Eurostar PBA and the latest TGV INOUI high-speed sets. Backed by a rich range of passenger formations and authentic freight wagons, the range offers everything needed to model French rail across every era.
2026 Range Announced
Lima’s 2026 HO scale range celebrates modern European passenger rail, from high-speed ICE and ETR 610 sets to everyday ALn668 railcars, E464 electrics and Vivalto double-deck coaches. With extensive intermediate coach packs for prototypical formations, it offers everything needed to recreate today’s regional and cross-border services in authentic detail.
2026 Range Announced
Rivarossi’s 2026 new items combine practical upgrades with a diverse mix of Italian, German and Swiss electric and diesel traction, many available with DCC or AC sound for immersive running. From international coaches and prestige services to an extensive freight range and everything from draisinas to high-speed EMUs, the collection delivers the depth needed to model busy modern and historic railways with realism.
2026 Range Announcement
LGB’s 2026 new items celebrate large-scale railroading at its most evocative, blending dramatic mountain power, characterful steam and festive favourites across European and American themes. Headline models include a superb spread of RhB electrics, classic steam from Switzerland and Germany, modern diesel power and unique railcars, all offered with factory-fitted DCC sound for immersive outdoor operation.
Other Model News
Herpa Vehicle Announcements
This latest announcement delivers a vast and varied showcase of modern road transport, combining premium passenger cars, specialist commercial vehicles and an extraordinary depth of contemporary trucking.
Herpa Vehicle Releases
Herpa’s latest release brings a fresh wave of finely detailed models, showcasing the brand’s trademark precision, realism, and attention to finish. With a broad mix of new subjects, updated tooling, and striking new liveries, this collection offers something to enhance every layout and display.
January Releases
Oxford Diecast’s January releases deliver a characterful mix of British motoring icons, commercial vehicles and heritage transport, from classic Minis, a Capri Mk1 and Mazda MX-5, to working vehicles such as the Royal Mail Land Rover, Austin-Morris J4 van and DAF Euro 6 livestock lorry. Rounded out by the evocative London Transport Regent RTL bus, this is a varied and nostalgic collection that will appeal to collectors of road and transport history alike.
January 2026 Announcements
Wiking kicks off the year in style with a richly varied collection that blends innovation, heritage, and unmistakable character.
New Arrivals Into Stock This Week
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...
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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.