If you need to buy a present for a young boy then the option of choosing a train set is always one that you should consider. It's always a popular and well received gift - just ask any adult male if they can remember getting their first train set and you'll soon see what I mean.
It's probably fair to say that the days when every young boy wanted to be either a train driver or a fireman are gone now. Nevertheless, there is still a certain magic about trains. They have an enduring appeal that endears them to us even in these modern times. And whether you have a fancy for the age of steam or more up to date rolling stock, you can be sure that your needs will be well catered for.
Hornby Trains are, without any shadow of a doubt, the best known manufacturer of model trains and model railway equipment around. Their now famous oo gauge standard system means that you can take a basic starter set customise it and add to it over a period of time. If you decide to give a Hornby train set as a present then the lucky child who receives it will be able to use their imagination and add extra track, additional trains and a huge range of accessories in accordance with their design.
There's a huge range of different Hornby sets to choose from. The "Thomas The Tank Engine" set may appeal to younger children. Slightly older children may find the "Hogwarts Express" set based on the Harry Potter movies appealing. And of course, there are the replicas of real trains - though it's debatable whether these should be considered as toys or model trains.
If you crave the romance of the age of steam then you really are spoiled for choice. The Flying Scotsman and the Mallard are ever popular choices. There are plenty others to choose from - some of them "superstars" like the City of York for example, others are more mundane workhorses. Puffing Billies - but with their own functional beauty nonetheless.
Alternatively you could opt for a more modern, possibly a more utilitarian approach, and go for a diesel or electric set up. The class 52 diesel locomotive was, in its day, every bit as iconic as the Mallard and the Flying Scotsman - if somewhat less aesthetically pleasing.
The Virgin Pendolino is currently the mainstay of the UK rail long distance passenger network. Hornby of course have a train set based on these locos. It even tilts when it goes round the bends in the tracks.
Whether your intended gift recipient would prefer steam locos, grubby diesels of ultra modern electric trains, there's a Hornby model to suit. If they subsequently change their mind then the fact that the Hornby system is standardised means that they can change the theme of their train set very easily.
You can't beat a train set by Hornby Trains - it'll give years of pleasure and enjoyment. Check out the Hogwarts Express - it's a great starter set.
categories: hobbies,toys,games,kids,model trains,entertainment,gifts
