The Ffestiniog Railway, located in North Wales, is the world’s oldest surviving independent railway company, founded in 1832. Originally built to transport slate from the quarries of Blaenau Ffestiniog to the port at Porthmadog, it was engineered with a unique narrow gauge of just 1 ft 11½ in (597 mm), ideal for winding through the rugged Snowdonia landscape. Innovative features included gravity-powered slate trains running downhill and horses hauling the wagons back uphill.

In the 1860s, steam locomotives were introduced, making the Ffestiniog the first narrow-gauge railway in the world to successfully use them. After declining slate demand led to closure in 1946, dedicated volunteers began restoring the line in the 1950s. Today, it runs as a popular heritage railway, linking Porthmadog to Blaenau Ffestiniog once again, and is celebrated for its pioneering engineering, scenic beauty, and remarkable preservation story.

These latest PECO train packs celebrate that legacy with attention to authenticity and a passion for detail.

The Ffestiniog Railway, located in North Wales, is the world’s oldest surviving independent railway company, founded in 1832. Originally built to transport slate from the quarries of Blaenau Ffestiniog to the port at Porthmadog, it was engineered with a unique narrow gauge of just 1 ft 11½ in (597 mm), ideal for winding through the rugged Snowdonia landscape. Innovative features included gravity-powered slate trains running downhill and horses hauling the wagons back uphill.

In the 1860s, steam locomotives were introduced, making the Ffestiniog the first narrow-gauge railway in the world to successfully use them. After declining slate demand led to closure in 1946, dedicated volunteers began restoring the line in the 1950s. Today, it runs as a popular heritage railway, linking Porthmadog to Blaenau Ffestiniog once again, and is celebrated for its pioneering engineering, scenic beauty, and remarkable preservation story.

These latest PECO train packs celebrate that legacy with attention to authenticity and a passion for detail.

During the 1960s, British semi-detached houses reflected a period of post-war recovery and growing suburban prosperity. As Britain rebuilt from wartime damage and expanded its suburbs, demand for affordable family homes surged. Semi-detached houses became the ideal solution — cost-effective, spacious, and suited to modern lifestyles. Built mainly from brick or concrete with simple geometric designs, they often featured large windows, central heating, and private gardens. Unlike the ornate Victorian or interwar styles, 1960s semis embraced functionalism and minimal ornamentation, echoing modernist influences. Many were constructed as part of large housing estates on city outskirts, supported by improved road networks and rising car ownership. These homes symbolised optimism, mobility, and the shift toward suburban living, forming a lasting part of Britain’s mid-20th-century architectural identity.

• Laser cut wood kits with finely rendered detailing
• Each kit representing a typical 1960s style semi detached block of two houses, front elevation, rear elevation and complete building.
• Can be joined up to create a longer block, terrace.
• Front porch can be fitted as an optional extra
• Scope for further interior decoration (not provided)
• Complement our earlier releasee of Victorian Houses – kits NB306, NB307, NB308, also in N
• Additional upsell products available form the ratio range such as:
  • 300 Guttering and Downpipes
  • 307 Chimneys

During the 1960s, British semi-detached houses reflected a period of post-war recovery and growing suburban prosperity. As Britain rebuilt from wartime damage and expanded its suburbs, demand for affordable family homes surged. Semi-detached houses became the ideal solution — cost-effective, spacious, and suited to modern lifestyles. Built mainly from brick or concrete with simple geometric designs, they often featured large windows, central heating, and private gardens. Unlike the ornate Victorian or interwar styles, 1960s semis embraced functionalism and minimal ornamentation, echoing modernist influences. Many were constructed as part of large housing estates on city outskirts, supported by improved road networks and rising car ownership. These homes symbolised optimism, mobility, and the shift toward suburban living, forming a lasting part of Britain’s mid-20th-century architectural identity.

• Laser cut wood kits with finely rendered detailing
• Each kit representing a typical 1960s style semi detached block of two houses, front elevation, rear elevation and complete building.
• Can be joined up to create a longer block, terrace.
• Front porch can be fitted as an optional extra
• Scope for further interior decoration (not provided)
• Complement our earlier releasee of Victorian Houses – kits NB306, NB307, NB308, also in N
• Additional upsell products available form the ratio range such as:
  • 300 Guttering and Downpipes
  • 307 Chimneys

During the 1960s, British semi-detached houses reflected a period of post-war recovery and growing suburban prosperity. As Britain rebuilt from wartime damage and expanded its suburbs, demand for affordable family homes surged. Semi-detached houses became the ideal solution — cost-effective, spacious, and suited to modern lifestyles. Built mainly from brick or concrete with simple geometric designs, they often featured large windows, central heating, and private gardens. Unlike the ornate Victorian or interwar styles, 1960s semis embraced functionalism and minimal ornamentation, echoing modernist influences. Many were constructed as part of large housing estates on city outskirts, supported by improved road networks and rising car ownership. These homes symbolised optimism, mobility, and the shift toward suburban living, forming a lasting part of Britain’s mid-20th-century architectural identity.

• Laser cut wood kits with finely rendered detailing
• Each kit representing a typical 1960s style semi detached block of two houses, front elevation, rear elevation and complete building.
• Can be joined up to create a longer block, terrace.
• Front porch can be fitted as an optional extra
• Scope for further interior decoration (not provided)
• Complement our earlier releasee of Victorian Houses – kits NB306, NB307, NB308, also in N
• Additional upsell products available form the ratio range such as:
  • 300 Guttering and Downpipes
  • 307 Chimneys

RAILWAY OF THE MONTH

Pentworth
Mark Butler spent three decades creating this exquisite model of a Great Western branch line terminus in N gauge, much of the scenery for which was inspired by the celebrated Vale Scene at Pendon Museum in Oxfordshire. The layout is set to appear at the Rail-Ex Taunton show this October.

PLAN OF THE MONTH

Making a start in OO-9
Using a Peco 009 Setrack starter set as his starting point, James Walker created this self-contained North Wales narrow gauge scene in just 100 x 75cm.

PLUS ALL THE LATEST NEWS & REVIEWS...

• TUFTS – 100 x Daffodil Self-Adhesive Static Grass Tufts by War World Scenics
• SELF-ADHESIVE – Easy to use, just peel & stick where required
• COLOURS – Available in more than 30 different colours and styles
• LENGTHS – Available in 4mm, 6mm and 10mm lengths
• IDEAL – For representing bushes and wild or long grass on model railway layouts, miniature bases, wargame battleboards and model dioramas

• TUFTS – 100 x Daffodil Self-Adhesive Static Grass Tufts by War World Scenics
• SELF-ADHESIVE – Easy to use, just peel & stick where required
• COLOURS – Available in more than 30 different colours and styles
• LENGTHS – Available in 4mm, 6mm and 10mm lengths
• IDEAL – For representing bushes and wild or long grass on model railway layouts, miniature bases, wargame battleboards and model dioramas

• TUFTS – 100 x Heather Self-Adhesive Static Grass Tufts by War World Scenics
• SELF-ADHESIVE – Easy to use, just peel & stick where required
• COLOURS – Available in more than 30 different colours and styles
• LENGTHS – Available in 4mm, 6mm and 10mm lengths
• IDEAL – For representing bushes and wild or long grass on model railway layouts, miniature bases, wargame battleboards and model dioramas

• TUFTS – 100 x Heather Self-Adhesive Static Grass Tufts by War World Scenics
• SELF-ADHESIVE – Easy to use, just peel & stick where required
• COLOURS – Available in more than 30 different colours and styles
• LENGTHS – Available in 4mm, 6mm and 10mm lengths
• IDEAL – For representing bushes and wild or long grass on model railway layouts, miniature bases, wargame battleboards and model dioramas

• TUFTS – 100 x Poppy Self-Adhesive Static Grass Tufts by War World Scenics
• SELF-ADHESIVE – Easy to use, just peel & stick where required
• COLOURS – Available in more than 30 different colours and styles
• LENGTHS – Available in 4mm, 6mm and 10mm lengths
• IDEAL – For representing bushes and wild or long grass on model railway layouts, miniature bases, wargame battleboards and model dioramas

• TUFTS – 100 x Poppy Self-Adhesive Static Grass Tufts by War World Scenics
• SELF-ADHESIVE – Easy to use, just peel & stick where required
• COLOURS – Available in more than 30 different colours and styles
• LENGTHS – Available in 4mm, 6mm and 10mm lengths
• IDEAL – For representing bushes and wild or long grass on model railway layouts, miniature bases, wargame battleboards and model dioramas

• TUFTS – 100 x Mixed Flowers Self-Adhesive Static Grass Tufts by War World Scenics
• SELF-ADHESIVE – Easy to use, just peel & stick where required
• COLOURS – Available in more than 30 different colours and styles
• LENGTHS – Available in 4mm, 6mm and 10mm lengths
• IDEAL – For representing bushes and wild or long grass on model railway layouts, miniature bases, wargame battleboards and model dioramas

• TUFTS – 100 x Mixed Flowers Self-Adhesive Static Grass Tufts by War World Scenics
• SELF-ADHESIVE – Easy to use, just peel & stick where required
• COLOURS – Available in more than 30 different colours and styles
• LENGTHS – Available in 4mm, 6mm and 10mm lengths
• IDEAL – For representing bushes and wild or long grass on model railway layouts, miniature bases, wargame battleboards and model dioramas

• Durable Craftsmanship: Constructed from sturdy 3mm laser-cut MDF for reliable, long-lasting use.
• Customisable Drawers: 10 adjustable drawers designed to fit TT:120 and OO9 locomotives, wagons, trucks, or vehicles securely.
• Smooth Sliding System: Easy-access drawers with a smooth-sliding design make organizing and retrieving your models hassle-free.
• Label-Friendly Design: Each drawer features a front-facing label slot, offering quick identification of your collection.
• Stackable Convenience: Interlocking tabs allow multiple boxes to be securely stacked for scalable storage solutions.
• Protective Foam Inserts: Includes foam sheets to create custom inserts for extra protection, ensuring your locomotives and rolling stock remain safe.

• The definitive Pro Grass Layering System N Gauge starter kit by WWScenics.
• Contains a Pro Grass N-Gauge Micro Applicator, Basing Glue, Layering Spray, D-Baller tool and a selection of static grasses .
• Create realistic model scenery using the Pro Grass Layering System method, pioneered by WWScenics. 
• Suitable for Beginners and Experts. 
• Supplied in our own custom-made storage box, for secure and tidy storage.

• The definitive Pro Grass Layering System N Gauge starter kit by WWScenics.
• Contains a Pro Grass N-Gauge Micro Applicator, Basing Glue, Layering Spray, D-Baller tool and a selection of static grasses .
• Create realistic model scenery using the Pro Grass Layering System method, pioneered by WWScenics. 
• Suitable for Beginners and Experts. 
• Supplied in our own custom-made storage box, for secure and tidy storage.

• The definitive Pro Grass Layering System N Gauge starter kit by WWScenics.
• Contains a Pro Grass N-Gauge Micro Applicator, Basing Glue, Layering Spray, D-Baller tool and a selection of static grasses .
• Create realistic model scenery using the Pro Grass Layering System method, pioneered by WWScenics. 
• Suitable for Beginners and Experts. 
• Supplied in our own custom-made storage box, for secure and tidy storage.

In this months issue...

RAILWAY OF THE MONTH - 21 RUE DES HAIES

Vincent Cleren depicts an industrial suburb in HO in which family connections inform certain structures. Built as a home layout, it has been successful at shows.

MITTELSTADT

A stop-over on a route through the mountains - Chris Bart describes his extensive digitally-controlled permanent home HO layout set in central Germany.

PLAN OF THE MONTH - BROKEN CREEK

Lee Wenham with a carefully detailed switching scene, expanded from a home layout to be portable for shows. It will be at the Uckfield exhibition this month.

+PLUS!

All the latest news, reviews and layouts from around the world!

RAILWAY OF THE MONTH

Bristol Templecombe
Nigel Smith describes this extensive model of a British Railways steam era Motive Power Depot in 7mm scale, which has been developed over a period of 24 years by members of Warley Model Railway Club. It is set to be one of the main exhibits at the organisation's next annual show at Statfold on 11 & 12 October

PLAN OF THE MONTH

Claremont
Pete Latham describes this small and self-contained N gauge layout, which depicts a BR freight yard and utilises older examples of ready-to-run models. The layout plan provides the basis of an ideal entry-level project for those who are both short of space and working to a budget.

PLUS ALL THE LATEST NEWS & REVIEWS...

In this months issue...

RAILWAY OF THE MONTH - SAINT-HILAIRE

Steven Deruytter presents his Belgian HO layout, a simple plan for exhibiting based on actual locations and unusually in an autumn setting.

SAINT AGUR

Small but satisfying - Ray O'Neill presents 766 his compact French HO exhibition layout which poses certain challenges for shunting.

PLAN OF THE MONTH - SANTA MARIA

Dan Spalding describes his Rhatische Bahn HOm layout, which depicts a wayside station with typical features on a line that was planned but never actually built.

+PLUS!

All the latest news, reviews and layouts from around the world!

RAILWAY OF THE MONTH

Buckhorn Weston
Maurice Lockwood describes how he created this extensive loft-based layout in 00 gauge, which plays host to a vast array of BR Southern Region steam-hauled services of the late 1950s to mid-1960s period.

PLAN OF THE MONTH

Island steam in TT:120
With PECO announcing a trio of laser-cut kits based on structures at Ventnor West, which will complement the forthcoming Hornby models of an Isle of Wight 'Terrier' and four-wheel coaches, modelling this station in 1:120 is set to become tantalisingly straightforward ...

PLUS ALL THE LATEST NEWS & REVIEWS...

The British Railways LNER 13-ton steel hopper wagon was based on an LNER design but produced in the early British Railways era between 1949 and 1953. It marked a step forward from earlier wooden-bodied wagons by using an all-steel, welded construction, which offered improved durability and reduced maintenance needs. The design reflected the LNER’s long-standing experience with mineral wagons, but was adapted for post-war production methods in BR workshops such as those at Shildon, Faverdale, and York.

Over 2,600 of these wagons were built, and they became a common sight in the North Eastern Region. This was partly because many goods yards in the area had coal-drop staithes, making the bottom-discharge hopper design especially efficient for unloading bulk materials. While they were primarily intended for transporting coal, the hoppers proved versatile and were later used to carry stone, sand, and other aggregates.

The 13-ton steel hopper was a reliable and workmanlike vehicle that served across the UK for several decades. Its robust construction meant it could withstand heavy use, and it became a mainstay of freight traffic in the post-war period. Although newer wagon designs eventually replaced them, some examples remained in service into the early 1980s, making them one of the longer-lived mineral wagon types of the mid-20th century.

Inspired by one of Britain’s most beloved narrow-gauge railways – the Lynton & Barnstaple, these exclusive new packs feature the beautifully detailed KATO Large England locomotive “Exmoor Pony” paired with unique-liveried rolling stock – only available in these sets and not sold separately.

Each pack comes in a smart, collector-style presentation box, complete with custom packaging and a striking outer sleeve – perfect for displaying or gifting.