Most of us with an interest in railways enjoy casting our eyes beyond our usual haunts once in a while. It may be to a different scale, era, prototype – or country. Clark Railworks is the UK’s largest retailer of pre-owned continental model trains, with our fleet numbering hundreds of HO and N scale models at any time. This is great news for anyone curious about overseas modelling – as well as for those of you already converted to ‘playing away’.  

Although British-outline models have certainly caught up in recent years, it’s not so long ago that overseas manufacturers were in a different class altogether in terms of detail, technology and running quality. And this breathtaking authenticity is still evident today when you open the box of almost any little masterpiece from Roco, Brawa, Fleischmann, Spectrum and many others.

 N Scale is a particular ‘Goldilocks zone’ when it comes to continental models. The larger loading gauge of the real thing (especially with US-outline trains) means that their N Scale sisters have very pleasing dimensions – more akin to TT-size when compared to British models. But they all run on the same 9mm gauge track, allowing for extensive scenic development in a modest space – or a satisfying ‘micro’ in a shoebox! Step up to HO, and you’re met with sublime levels of detail more often associated with O Gauge on home shores.

This sumptuous spec is pushed even further with specialist products from the likes of Micro Metakits, whose gorgeous miniatures can form the centrepiece of any collection – but are equally at home when hard at work on a layout.

And of course, overseas modelling is the perfect excuse to push the boat out on dramatic landscapes through which to run your trains…

But continental models can be hard to find in the UK and often incur hefty import costs when imported. A visit to Clark Railworks’ continental section can therefore save you a lot of money and hassle – and there’s a good chance you’ll find all the trains you need to get you started on a foreign detour. 

Where will your next adventure take you…?