Main Lines: 2nd May 2026
Welcome to this week's Main Lines.
Over the past week, the UK rail network has been dominated by preparations for the early May Bank Holiday, with extensive engineering works set to impact key routes including the East Coast Main Line, London terminals and major hubs such as Liverpool Lime Street, where closures and diversions are planned to deliver long-term reliability upgrades. Alongside this, Network Rail has confirmed a wider programme of hundreds of projects taking place across the holiday period, reinforcing ongoing investment in infrastructure improvements nationwide. Elsewhere, industry developments continue at pace, with innovation initiatives such as trackside energy generation trials and continued progress on major schemes like HS2-related works and future network enhancements. While disruption is expected in the short term, the overarching theme remains one of sustained investment, modernisation, and incremental upgrades aimed at improving performance and capacity across the UK rail network.
In model news, we have had some interesting announcements, including a new member of the Royal Family coming to HO and O scale courtesy of Preiser, and new items from other brands such as Kato USA. We also take a look at the Kato Pocketline range, which is not only ideal for small spaces, but is budget-friendly too.
In This Issue:
British Model Railway News
American Model Railway News
European Model Railway News
Japanese Model Railway News
Other News
British Model Railway News
Coming Soon: April 2026
Hornby are pleased to share an early preview of what’s scheduled to arrive over the coming month, with a well-rounded line-up of OO scale releases that combine established favourites with eye-catching additions.
American Model Railway News
N Scale Pioneer Zephyr Announced
For the latest announcement from KATO USA, one of the most recognisable streamliners in American rail history takes centre stage with a newly produced model of the legendary Pioneer Zephyr.
European Model Railway News
2026 Range Announcements
The latest arrivals from Preiser bring another richly detailed selection of figures and accessories to life across HO, O and G scales. This release features a standout collection centred on iconic historical and contemporary figures, with a major spotlight on the British Royal Family.
Japanese Model Railway News
The Pocket-Money Friendly Range
Kato’s Pocket Line range offers a charming and accessible introduction to N scale modelling, combining compact designs with plenty of character. Perfect for beginners or layouts where space is limited, these models are designed to run smoothly on tight curves.
Other News
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.