Pretty self explanatory really. What is your favourite N Gauge layout you've seen?
My favourite is probably Elvinley. I came across it and was stunned at the realism - it's hard to believe it's an N Gauge layout; in fact it is better than a lot of 00 layouts I've seen. I find it quite inspirational as it's a layout built for personal enjoyment rather than exhibiting, and also the way it looks is in some ways similar to what I'm trying to achieve with mine.
(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7362/10878130204_0812bc708b_c.jpg)
(http://fc02.deviantart.net/fs70/i/2011/171/3/9/elvinley_station_overview_by_silentwake-d3jf7u2.jpg)
I would agree with you, you just cannot beat any of his layouts for realism :admiration:
cheers John.
Good topic. I always enjoy looking at pics of this one (Easthampton)...
http://easthampton.cybotic.net/ (http://easthampton.cybotic.net/)
Hello all,
Elvinley looks very nice in the photos but I've not seen it in the flesh, so to speak.
The layout that for me set the gold standard, and is still probably my all time favourite, is Acton Mainline. Just superb. Sorry I can't load any photos as I don't have any. It is now reincarnated as Dragonby, and still on the circuit though.
cheers
Ben A.
Totnes does it for me
[smg id=13725 type=preview align=center caption="Totnes water"]
[smg id=13726 type=preview align=center caption="Totnes overview"]
Cheers
Dave
Basingstoke by Farnham MRC
http://farnhammrc.org.uk/?page_id=315 (http://farnhammrc.org.uk/?page_id=315)
Riddings Junction (1964), Waverley Route, East Neuk MRC if I recall correctly.
Saw it at Warley a good few years ago, I was captivated by it, working signals courtesy of Embedded Controls, a Seuthe smoke unit strategically located under the loco on the Langholm Branch platform. It looke fantastic and ran superbly.
I often wonder what became of it..
Roy
Fence Houses. I know it is 2FS, but I used to live there!
For me, Woodhead, captures the essence of the Iconic route.
Steven
Quote from: bees on July 06, 2014, 07:36:36 AM
For me, Woodhead, captures the essence of the Iconic route.
This was one of the layouts the sprung to my mind when this thread started. Of course is 2 mm fine scale not N gauge.
I got to see it for real a couple years ago, I think at St Albans. It does indeed look amazing, and the 2mm Class 76s are works of art. However, and I say this with massive respect to the layout builders and operators, it isn't particularly interesting to watch. It's really all about the kit-built locos and providing them with a realistic place to run, rather than (arguably) toy train set levels of playability.
By way of contrast, another 2mm FS layout, St Ruth (http://www.2mm.org.uk/layouts/struth/index.htm), was at St Albans this year. I thought it had everything: lovely handmade buildings, beautifully done seafront scenery, and plenty of interesting train operations. If I recall correctly, there were iPad type things on the top of the display announcing what was happening, so you could see there was a sort of timetable of activities, and you didn't have to wait for long to see some shunting or a train leaving or whatever. It was pretty cool, and I remember spending a lot more time watching St Ruth than I did the Woodhead Route MSW layout.
Getting back to the actual question, favourite N gauge layouts, one that really sticks in my mind as top quality is Frankland. It just comes across as a real labour of love, and the amount of detail is amazing.
Cheers, NeMo
Quote from: Bealman on July 06, 2014, 12:18:43 AM
Fence Houses. I know it is 2FS, but I used to live there!
I think it used to be N didn't it?
Anyway if you re including 2milFS, then it's gotta be Copenhagen Fields
Yep on both counts, mate. Fence Houses did used to be N, and Copenhagen Fields is, of course, totally awesome.
I just happened to see Fence Houses at the Wigan show, and I'll probably never see it again, so it is fresh in me mind. :thumbsup:
George
For me, it's got to be Elvinley!
Quote from: Bealman on July 06, 2014, 11:31:56 AM
Yep on both counts, mate. Fence Houses did used to be N, and Copenhagen Fields is, of course, totally awesome.
I just happened to see Fence Houses at the Wigan show, and I'll probably never see it again, so it is fresh in me mind. :thumbsup:
George
Fence-houses used to be N?
There was another Fence Houses layout in N, I believe, owned by the same person (Bob Jones?) but my understanding was that this current layout was always conceived and built as a 2mil project.
Happy to stand corrected...
Roy
I hope we can get back to the original question about the best N gauge layouts.
Talking about 2 mm finescale is a bit like someone asking about the best 00 layouts and getting lots of relies about HO or EM/P4/S4 layouts instead. Interesting, but not relevant.
Finescale layouts are made by expert modellers who enjoy (at the very least) the engineering side of things and more than likely scratch build their buildings and kit build their rolling stock. N gauge modellers are more likely to use commercial stuff, and instead the flair comes from the scenics and details. Given the nature of this forum, I'd reckon such stuff is more relevant here, and arguably more inspirational because it's doable even without a shed full of power tools and 30 years of metalworking experience. But maybe that's just me!
Elvinely, Frankland, Lofthole... these are examples of N gauge layouts that inspire me to do better.
Cheers, NeMo
For me it has to be 'Springfield' by Roy Schofield - an oldie but goodie.
1930s LMS/LNER mainline in Yorkshire, in 6' x 3'.
Fantastic !
Best regards,
Joe
Quote from: joe cassidy on July 06, 2014, 12:08:40 PM
For me it has to be 'Springfield' by Roy Schofield - an oldie but goodie.
1930s LMS/LNER mainline in Yorkshire, in 6' x 3'.
Fantastic !
Best regards,
Joe
So, we are not limiting ourselves to layouts we have physically seen?
I had forgotten about Springfield, very clever use of the space and beautifully modelled.
There was also a BR steam/diesel era "Woodhead" inspired layout, fully automated on a single board. I saw it at a local show about seven years ago, by which time it was not with it's original owner. Had a good chat with the then current owner. Although it has been in magazines for the life of me I cannot remember it's name!
Roy
I have lived in France for over 20 years so unfortunately I have never seen any UK-based layouts.
I can only admire layouts such as Springfield, Elvinley, etc. from a distance via magazines/internet.
My own preference is for "glorified train sets". Another one I would suggest is "Lemon Street", which is in a similar vein to "Woodhead" but West Coast main line.
Best regards
Joe
Quote from: joe cassidy on July 06, 2014, 12:30:43 PM
My own preference is for "glorified train sets".
Agree 100%, at least as a visitor to a model railway show. On the other hand, I can't help but admire those who craft something unique from bits of brass, plastic and balsa wood.
Quote from: joe cassidy on July 06, 2014, 12:30:43 PM
Another one I would suggest is "Lemon Street", which is in a similar vein to "Woodhead" but West Coast main line.
Definitely a nice layout with lots of atmosphere. While watching a video about it on YouTube, caught a link to a certain Kings Park that captures the 1980s London feel amazingly well. Never heard of this layout before, but glad I've seen it now!
Cheers, NeMo
N Gauge model railway Kings Park (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VyaxfOfQIeQ#ws)
Kings Park - the modern image equivalent to Copenhagen Fields ?
Best regards,
Joe
Roy:
I believe you are correct. I simply looked at the info on the side of the 2mm Fence Houses when I saw it at Wigan.
NeMo:
I agree. You will have to give me a bit longer to think about it, though.... I've seen some pretty cool American N scale layouts in the press over the years.
The only reason I brought Fence Houses into the equation was because I'd been reading about it in the press, and of course on a trip from Australia to England and then seeing the layout unexpectedly at Wigan sorta blew me away!
Let me have a bit longer to think.
:thumbsup: George
Brigham Bay was a great looking layout with a fantastic back scene. Also Bodmin is pretty realistic .
Quote from: joe cassidy on July 06, 2014, 12:47:10 PM
Kings Park - the modern image equivalent to Copenhagen Fields ?
Best regards,
Joe
Queen's Park is a truly lovely layout with plenty of action train wise but it is not in the same league as Copenhagen Fields in my humble opinion (but then to be fair not much is!).
For me Law Junction is a classic MI layout and exceptionally well modelled.
Roy
Quote from: Roy L S on July 06, 2014, 01:35:26 PM
Queen's Park is a truly lovely layout with plenty of action train wise but it is not in the same league as Copenhagen Fields in my humble opinion (but then to be fair not much is!).
Perhaps, but one should observe that King's Park is a layout built by one person within a short space of time; Copenhagen Fields is a team effort that's been constructed over the best of 30 years and still isn't finished! My assumption would be that the guys looking after Copenhagen Fields are quite protective of it, and you'd have to be a pretty skilled modeller before being allowed anywhere near it, while King's Park is quite obviously made by someone who's building his skills up as he goes along (lots of Metcalfe kits with wobbly chimney pots as well as some superb scratch-built buildings, catenary, etc.).
In other words, have to be wary of comparing apples with apples, not oranges.
Cheers, NeMo
Let's not forget that Copenhagen Fields is 2FS also.
So, in keeping with NeMo's suggestion that we stick with N, I must admit that I was very impressed with Bodmin when I saw it at Wigan. Compact, working well, and beautiful scenic work.
Many fine layouts about, one of my favourites is Littleton Curve, about the only one
I could afford to emulate!
The tube train on Kings Park was most impressive.
Well I only brought up CF cos Bealman brought up FH. :P
Ok N gauge....hmmmm...... I have to say I really like stoney lane depot.
Cheers
Kirky
Quote from: kirky on July 06, 2014, 03:46:55 PM
Well I only brought up CF cos Bealman brought up FH.
Wasn't a dig... I voted for St Ruth, which is also 2mm finescale! :dunce:
But I think if we all plumbed for 2 mm FS layouts instead of N gauge ones, we're not really answering the original question. Besides, I'm really keen to learn about other top-quality N gauge layouts, and this thread is as good as any!
Cheers, NeMo
Sorry Nemo, my mistake, I forgot the smiley. Rectified now.
Cheers
Kirky
I have always liked Ashburton...
http://small-but-perfectly-formed.blogspot.co.uk/2009/08/ashburton.html?m=1 (http://small-but-perfectly-formed.blogspot.co.uk/2009/08/ashburton.html?m=1)
The scenery is beautifully executed and was a joy to behold (although I cannot recall which show I saw it at!).
Mine have to be Batty Moor.........
Twickenham & District Model Railway Club. Batty Moor. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tJ_SuT0jFYU#)
and Chee Tor...........oh no, that's finescale so is ruled out :(
Mine will always be 'Littlewood' :)
Not particularly realistic compared to others mentioned but extremely entertaining, great selection of stock, fantastic automation in DC, working level crossing lights/barriers (before you could buy off-the-shelf modules!), and some great detailing 8)
LITTLEWOOD, British N Gauge Model Railway (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ciZH1NhZzL4#)
It was seeing this layout at Spalding that put the idea back in my mind to return to model railways and N Gauge ;)
Paul
Rugby Road by Ian MacIntosh has always impressed me. A huge layout but oozing with atmosphere and instantly recognisable as LMS/BR(M). Here are some pix:
http://sallyphillipsimages.smugmug.com/keyword/n%20scale%20model%20railway/i-phnT6Z5 (http://sallyphillipsimages.smugmug.com/keyword/n%20scale%20model%20railway/i-phnT6Z5)
Mike
Quote from: newportnobby on July 06, 2014, 05:29:05 PM
Mine have to be Batty Moor.........
I enjoyed the layout video, one of my favourite areas, I go hiking round
Ribblehead and Dentdale from time to time.
Quote from: msr on July 06, 2014, 06:22:07 PM
Rugby Road by Ian MacIntosh has always impressed me. A huge layout but oozing with atmosphere and instantly recognisable as LMS/BR(M)
Sorry Mike, but for me 'Rugby Road' is a case of overkill :
- too big
- too much track
- too much stock gathering dust on the layout
It is difficult to understand the purpose of it all.
With so much space available I would have gone for a layout that is part urban, part rural.
Best regards,
Joe
With so many excellent layouts on this forum it's difficult to choose, Frankland and Elvinley have already been mentioned, I particularly like Chetcombe it creates the feel of Dorset very well.
Melton Mowbray North is a pleasure to watch...
Hedges Hill Cutting is inspirational in its execution
Loch Tat is just lovely!
And a more recent one that has just occurred to me is Vale of Oxbury - lovely crisp modelling and even a bit of DCC sound!
For me the tiny Rorgyle is an inspiration- exceptional realism and travels by bus nestled in a shopping wheely-bag....
Larger layouts- my leader is Bishop Wearburn. Melton Mowbray North is super but I prefer John's earlier layout as it depicts the area I grew up in....
A couple of excellent layouts from near where I am now are Howard Staniforth's Armathwaite and Trevor Webster's Stamford East (the latter noe in Manchester in the care of Robin Fox).
All the very best
Les
Of course most modeller's REAL favourite layout is......
the one you've just got to the stage where you can proudly take out to a show so others can stand there and admire it!
Les
I don't think I could narrow it down to just one layout, I used to be indecisive but now I am not quite sure :-\
Law Junction is a layout that I have spent a lot of time at shows admiring and will continue to do so .
Banbury which I saw all too breifly at TINGS has been of real inspriation for me.
Thanks for all the replies. I'm liking Melton Mowbray North especially.
I enjoyed the construction thread and the finished product of Old Warren TMD.
I would echo Banbury and Law Junction. Both of them have been an inspiration for our club's N gauge group.
Cheers,
Dave
Les1952
Exactly!! If our OWN constructions aren't our favourites (if only for that moment) then what is the point?
Quote from: Komata on July 08, 2014, 07:21:20 PM
Les1952
Exactly!! If our OWN constructions aren't our favourites (if only for that moment) then what is the point?
Was going to say, "my own". It isn't perfect, it isn't as good as other layouts but it is mine. I get to do it my way and run what I want. Even when I'm not playing trains I get a surprising amount of pleasure from just looking at it. It isn't finished yet but the journey has been enjoyable so far and I don't see why it won't continue to be a source of great satisfaction.
But the next one will be even better ;)
Quote from: johnlambert on July 08, 2014, 10:44:44 PM
Quote from: Komata on July 08, 2014, 07:21:20 PM
Les1952
Exactly!! If our OWN constructions aren't our favourites (if only for that moment) then what is the point?
Was going to say, "my own". It isn't perfect, it isn't as good as other layouts but it is mine. I get to do it my way and run what I want. Even when I'm not playing trains I get a surprising amount of pleasure from just looking at it. It isn't finished yet but the journey has been enjoyable so far and I don't see why it won't continue to be a source of great satisfaction.
But the next one will be even better ;)
Just what I was thinking! There are clearly "better" layouts all over the world, but I took ages and a lot of thought to make mine just the way I want it. It's my favorite.
Quote from: Roy L S on July 07, 2014, 12:19:14 PM
And a more recent one that has just occurred to me is Vale of Oxbury - lovely crisp modelling and even a bit of DCC sound!
Seconded, a beautiful example of a railway in a landscape that really showcases the strengths of N gauge.
https://flic.kr/p/fMm7m6
https://flic.kr/p/fMm6ng
Re: Vale of Oxbury
And also what can be achieved by weathering the stock (much of which has been carried out by Tom Hardwick):
http://www.rmweb.co.uk/community/index.php?/topic/8511-vale-of-oxbury-n-gauge/page-4 (http://www.rmweb.co.uk/community/index.php?/topic/8511-vale-of-oxbury-n-gauge/page-4)
Mike
Littlewood is legendary and I can't believe it's still going strong since it first appeared in Railway Modeller. There was a very small terminus layout in RM in the eighties called Kettlewell based on an extension to the Grassington branch. I liked it so much I paid it the tribute of making a blatant copy although with contemporary stock.
My favourites on here are Chetcombe and Southbridge which is surprising as GWR stuff doesn't float my boat at all.
Quote from: SD35 on July 09, 2014, 12:50:37 PM
My favourites on here are Chetcombe and Southbridge which is surprising as GWR stuff doesn't float my boat at all.
I think that a good layout stands out regardless of period or location. We all may have our favourite subjects but I think we also recognise quality workmanship when we see it.
Melton Mowbray North is my favourite N gauge layout that I've seen in the flesh.
(2mmFS – Chiltern Green.)
Quote from: Karhedron on July 09, 2014, 09:31:55 AM
Quote from: Roy L S on July 07, 2014, 12:19:14 PM
And a more recent one that has just occurred to me is Vale of Oxbury - lovely crisp modelling and even a bit of DCC sound!
Seconded, a beautiful example of a railway in a landscape that really showcases the strengths of N gauge.
https://flic.kr/p/fMm7m6
https://flic.kr/p/fMm6ng
Definitely my favourite I've seen in the flesh. I spent hours at it at TINGS.
Mike (msr) - thanks for putting the mrweb link on here....MUCH appreciated !!! Ric
How interesting that no-one has mentioned one of THE iconic layouts, Andy Calvert's Moorcock Junction...I may be a little biased as I used to own it :-X
Shame it is not on the circuit anymore, and doubt it ever will be again.
Right now I think my favourites are Howard Stainforth's Armathwaite ('cos I was involved in it) and the best layout for me at the moment without doubt another vote for Elvinley...must rate amongst the best.
Cheers
Bob
I was a little surprised not to see Grange-Over-Sands or Walcot Yard mentioned as they are both good and modelled on real life locations.
I, too, like Grange over Sands apart from the damned seagull noises >:(
It always makes me wish I had a blunderbuss with me >:D
Another vote here for Vale of Oxbury and Moorcock Junction, a layout I had the pleure of helping operate a few years ago, thanks Bob. Awesome layout with masses of potential. Would love to have bought it but time/money/space blocked it.
Simon
Quote from: newportnobby on August 18, 2014, 04:46:18 PM
I, too, like Grange over Sands apart from the damned seagull noises >:(
It always makes me wish I had a blunderbuss with me >:D
Only comes a close second to a flippin' gauge 1 layout I had the pleasure of exhibiting next to a while back...a tiny American layout with a loco that went round and round and round non-stop uttering 'orrible American steamy noises and whistle...God that damn whistle :toot: ...I had nightmares for weeks afterwards. :veryangry: :veryangry:
Sometimes I wish DCC had never been invented.
Sorry for :offtopicsign:
Cheers
Bob
My favourite layout is one I have in my mind but haven't got the space to turn it into reality.
Oh to be rich and have a whole room dedicated to my model railway.
A long time ago when I lived in Chorley I remember being invited to a friend of my wife's bungalow in nearby Clayton-le-woods. The husband of my wife's friend ran a local Garage and his own car was a Lamborghini, and one room of his home had a massive N gauge layout in it, and it was seeing that which made me consider swapping from 00 gauge to N gauge one day.
I don't remember which I envied the most - the Lamborghini (Uracco) or the Model Railway!
There wasn't a layout by the late Andy Calvert I didn't like.
Quote from: Sprintex on July 06, 2014, 05:44:38 PM
Mine will always be 'Littlewood' :)
Not particularly realistic compared to others mentioned but extremely entertaining, great selection of stock, fantastic automation in DC, working level crossing lights/barriers (before you could buy off-the-shelf modules!), and some great detailing 8)
LITTLEWOOD, British N Gauge Model Railway (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ciZH1NhZzL4#)
It was seeing this layout at Spalding that put the idea back in my mind to return to model railways and N Gauge ;)
Paul
:thankyousign: posting this - have never seen Littlewood. Love the track plan - loads to see and great to see Eurostar putting in an appearance.
Surprised that no one has mention Stoney Lane Depot. I have never seen it in the flesh but it is great to watch the trains I remember go by in an urban setting even if only on YouTube.
And it's owned by a member of these illustrious pages....
Also impressed by Franklands but I have not seen an update for some time...
Quote from: Greybeema on August 19, 2014, 07:17:21 AM
Surprised that no one has mention Stoney Lane Depot.
Good modelling, but a bit too clean for London ;)
Paul
Quote from: Sprintex on August 19, 2014, 07:20:15 AM
Quote from: Greybeema on August 19, 2014, 07:17:21 AM
Surprised that no one has mention Stoney Lane Depot.
Good modelling, but a bit too clean for London ;)
Paul
But most are.... :hmmm:
Quote from: Greybeema on August 19, 2014, 07:43:09 AM
Quote from: Sprintex on August 19, 2014, 07:20:15 AM
Quote from: Greybeema on August 19, 2014, 07:17:21 AM
Surprised that no one has mention Stoney Lane Depot.
Good modelling, but a bit too clean for London ;)
Paul
But most are.... :hmmm:
IMHO one of the most difficult jobs to do on a layout is to get the right amount of grime. One of the most obstructive things is one's pride...you've just spent hours and hours building a building with loads of detail and then you need the courage to get it dirty...it can be quite hard to do, especially if you are hiding a lot of the detail you spent so long getting right..
Cheers
Bob
Quote from: Greybeema on August 19, 2014, 07:17:21 AM
Surprised that no one has mention Stoney Lane Depot. I have never seen it in the flesh but it is great to watch the trains I remember go by in an urban setting even if only on YouTube.
Not too many more opportunities either - I think we are taking it to Doncaster in February next year and then the final show will be at DEMU's Showcase on 30/31 May 2015 in Burton on Trent.
Cheers, Mike
Quote from: Greybeema on August 19, 2014, 07:17:21 AM
Surprised that no one has mention Stoney Lane Depot.
I mentioned it on page 2 :P
Was well disguised behind CF there Kirky..but it's well worth two mentions...
Just picked up this thread and would like to say for seeing in the flesh 'Mytholme' and for picture review 'Elvinley' both these layouts gave me inspiration to do better (tho envious at the same time)......
http://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/Smileys/NGF/thankyousign.gif (http://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/Smileys/NGF/thankyousign.gif) Mytholm is still for sale...................
Both Drem and Law Junction have the wow factor for me. Must be the catenary!
Quote from: Branchie on February 08, 2015, 04:30:28 PM
Both Drem and Law Junction have the wow factor for me. Must be the catenary!
But there isn't any!! The masts are there but you have to imagine the catenary! :D
I agree with you though, both are beautifully modelled and ambitious, and evocative of the location.
Cheer Jon :)
Go on then BusyBee I am intrigued :searchingsign:
I am torn between
" If you have to ask you can't afford"
and
"If you don't ask you will never know"
Do you have any more details ?
I went to the Alton show yesterday and got to see Dentdale in the flesh for the first time and this definitely deserves a place in the top 10. Beutifully executed example of a railway in the landscape with loads of fantastically observed details.
https://www.flickr.com/photos/jontlaw/10023940245/in/photostream/ (https://www.flickr.com/photos/jontlaw/10023940245/in/photostream/)
Thanks for the pics, Matt.
Having seen Dentdale in the flesh I can confirm it is a well thought out and beautifully executed layout.
That's a great piece of work, especially as the location is one of my favourite
locations for hiking, beer tasting etc....
My favourite is Westbury (http://www.countrysidemodels.co.uk/gallery_westbury/westburymain.htm). I used to obsess over the Railway Modeller article when it was published way back in 1989, it is probably the main reason why I considered N Gauge in the first place. I'd go so far as to say it is probably my favourite UK outline layout in any scale.
As to be Acton Mainline/Dragonby...........modern image, also operated in BRblue.
Geoff
Quote from: Zunnan on February 12, 2015, 04:11:04 PM
My favourite is Westbury (http://www.countrysidemodels.co.uk/gallery_westbury/westburymain.htm). I used to obsess over the Railway Modeller article when it was published way back in 1989, it is probably the main reason why I considered N Gauge in the first place. I'd go so far as to say it is probably my favourite UK outline layout in any scale.
I had the pleaure of seeing it - and indeed built a couple of wagons for it. It was a proud moment when the layout appeared on the cover of RM with the corner of one of my scratchbuilt wagons just making it into the frame!