When building your first model railway layout, it's useful to start with a relatively straightforward track plan. Obviously, once you have mastered the basics you can move on to more complicated projects. These simple track plan suggestions will get you started, however.

 

 

 

 

 

 

1a - Basic

This is a standard train set oval. It is not visually exciting, but at least it has a station and your trains are always in view.

 

1b - Better

This employs the same basic oval track plan, but visual interest is improved thanks to part of the route being hidden in a tunnel. The road bridge also provides an attractive scenic break.

 

2a - Horseshoe 

A classic layout design. Two stations add variety and your trains are always in view. It still lacks visual interest, however.

 

2b - Better

As before, sections of the track are hidden in tunnels. Bridges over a river add even more interest, and bring a bit of life to the layout.

 

3 - Best

Adjusting the track plan to make a looped horsehoe offers much more interest and operating potential, with changing track levels, tunnels, gradients, scenery and longer runs between stations. Now you are starting to create something much more exciting!

 

Do you want to see a selection of the best model railways in real life? Visiting a model railway exhibition allows you to see a variety of top quality layouts and speak to their creators. Click here to find out about three of the UK’s leading shows.