Should You Choose To Give A Train Set As A Gift?

A train set has long been a popular gift for young children – boys especially, but many girls will also appreciate this type of gift. It is also a toy that appeals to a wide age range – many people will carry their passion for model railways into adulthood.

That’s one of the great things about train sets. They are certainly a high end toy and they do cost a little more than some of the other toys on sale in the shops. However, they also have an appeal which is longer lasting than the majority of other toys – so they can represent excellent value for money. Video games, for example, are often completed by kids in a matter of days. When they’re done then they are finished with and won’t be used again. On the other hand, a good quality train set can, with a little care and attention, last for years and provide fun and entertainment long after the latest video game or fad toy is forgotten about.

If you’re not sure whether or not a traditional gift such as a train set is a good idea in our modern digital age then why not perform the following test? Just ask any adult male whether or not they can remember their first train set. Watch closely as they assume a glazed expression as they travel back in time to relive the excitement of tip-toeing into the living room on Christmas morning to find their train set under the tree.

If you do decide to give a train set as a gift then you should consider the age of the intended recipient when selecting the set. Hornby trains produce train sets which are specifically designed for younger children. They have a set based upon the ever popular Thomas The Tank Engine which includes many of his friends. Younger children will love it. Older children may find something like the Hogwarts Express – from the Harry Potter films – more engaging.

As well as the locomotives and carriages, you should also consider the track layout. Younger children will probably become bored watching a train which does nothing but go round and round a circular or oval track. Sidings where the train can be backed up to pick up freight are good – as are platforms where people can get on and off the train. As a rule, younger children may tend to enjoy the hustle and bustle of goods trains – the transportation of essential materials – more than they will enjoy passenger trains.

Older children may be more appreciative of a high level of detail in model trains. A close similarity between the Hogwarts Express on the big screen and the smaller version on their bedroom floor may be something that appeals to them. Whatever age the receiver of your gift is, they will probably enjoy their set more with the addition of a few accessories. A few miniature people, some farmyard animals, trees, fences, tunnels and buildings can all help to bring their train set to life.

For a child, a train set can be a great toy. For an adult, a model railway can be a great hobby. With care, a good quality train set can turn into a family heirloom to be passed from father to son. In the first instance, before it becomes a toy, a hobby or a family treasure, it can be the ideal gift.

A high quality Hornby train set is a gift that will not only be well received but which will provide enjoyment for years to come. Choose from classics from the golden age of steam – such as the Hornby Mallard – or go for a more modern diesel or electric layout. The choice is yours.