For generations of farmers and tractor enthusiasts, the name David Brown is instantly recognisable.

Whether you remember seeing them working on farms, drove one yourself, or simply have an interest in classic British agricultural machinery, David Brown tractors have developed a remarkably loyal following.

And you don't necessarily need room in the shed for the real thing.

At Rainbow Railways we're growing our range of agricultural models, including some superb scale replicas of classic David Brown tractors.

A British tractor name with real heritage

David Brown became one of Britain's major post-war tractor manufacturers, with tractor production centred at Meltham in West Yorkshire.

Over the years the distinctive David Brown name appeared on a succession of machines that became familiar sights on British farms, including the Implematic and later Selectamatic ranges.

Today those tractors have an enthusiastic following among owners, restorers and collectors – while scale models give enthusiasts another way of owning a little piece of that agricultural history.

David Brown 950 Implematic – impressive in 1:16 scale

One of the standout models currently available from Rainbow Railways is the Universal Hobbies David Brown 950 Implematic.

The original 950 Implematic dates from the late 1950s and early 1960s, an important period in the development of David Brown tractors.

Universal Hobbies has recreated the 950 as a highly detailed 1:16 scale collector's model.

And 1:16 really does make a difference.

This is a substantial display model, considerably larger than the more familiar 1:32 agricultural models, allowing much more of the character and detail of the original tractor to be appreciated.

For somebody with memories of David Brown machinery – or a collector looking for a centrepiece for a classic tractor collection – the 950 makes a particularly impressive model.

View the Universal Hobbies David Brown 950 Implematic 1:16 at Rainbow Railways

David Brown 990 Selectamatic – a smaller way into the collection

You don't have to start with a large 1:16 collector's model.

The David Brown 990 is another of the marque's instantly recognisable tractors, and we've also stocked the Britains David Brown 990 Selectamatic in the popular 1:32 agricultural scale.

At 1:32 it makes a great addition to an existing farm model collection and is also a much more accessible introduction to collecting classic tractors.

View the Britains David Brown 990 Selectamatic 1:32 at Rainbow Railways

1:16 or 1:32 – what's the difference?

If you're buying a model as a gift, the scale numbers can initially be a little confusing.

A 1:32 tractor is the traditional scale associated with many Britains farm models. It's compact enough to build a sizeable collection while still offering plenty of recognisable detail.

A 1:16 tractor is approximately twice the length and width of the equivalent 1:32 model, so the difference in overall presence is considerable.

For a display piece, a 1:16 David Brown can therefore make quite an impression.

For somebody building a wider collection of tractors, machinery and implements, 1:32 is often the natural choice.

Of course, there's nothing to say you can't collect both.

More than just models

One of the things we love about classic tractor models is the memories attached to them.

A particular model number might remind someone of the tractor their father or grandfather owned. Another may have been the first tractor they drove. For somebody else, it may simply be a machine they've admired at agricultural shows and rallies.

That's why we'd love to hear your David Brown stories.

Did your family own a 950, 990 or another David Brown? Do you still own one today?

Let us know when we share this article on our Facebook page – and if you've got a photograph of the real tractor, we'd love to see that too.

Discover classic tractor models at Rainbow Railways

Although railways remain a huge part of what we do, our range extends much further.

We're continuing to develop our selection of agricultural and diecast models, including tractors and machinery from well-known manufacturers in a variety of scales.

So whether you're a railway modeller, agricultural collector, classic tractor enthusiast or simply searching for a model of a machine that means something to you, keep an eye on the Rainbow Railways range.

And for David Brown enthusiasts, this is only the beginning.

10th & 11th November 2026

We’re delighted to announce a special two-day Bachmann event at Rainbow Railways on Tuesday 10th and Wednesday 11th November 2026.

Following the Bachmann Winter announcements, members of the Bachmann team will be joining us in store for two days dedicated to all things model railways.

This will be a great opportunity to come along, see some of the latest releases and announcements up close, meet members of both the Bachmann and Rainbow Railways teams, and have a chat about the hobby.

Meet the Bachmann Team

Members of the Bachmann team will be with us throughout the event, giving visitors the opportunity to speak directly with the people behind the models.

Whether you have questions about one of the latest Winter announcements, want to find out more about forthcoming releases, or simply fancy a chat about model railways, the teams will be on hand throughout both days.

We’ll also be showcasing products from across the Bachmann family, including Bachmann Branchline and Graham Farish, alongside the extensive range available from Rainbow Railways.

See the Latest Releases & Announcements

Coming shortly after Bachmann’s Winter announcements, the event will give you the chance to take a closer look at some of the latest models and find out what’s coming next.

We’ll be announcing more details about what you can expect to see at the event as we get closer to November.

Travelling to See Us? Make a Day of It!

We know many of our customers travel a considerable distance to visit Rainbow Railways, so why not make a day of it?

Our in-store café will be open during the event, giving you somewhere to grab a drink and something to eat, take a break and, inevitably, continue talking about trains!

You’ll also have plenty of time to browse the Rainbow Railways shop, with our extensive selection of OO, N, TT and O Gauge models, accessories and pre-owned items.

Event Details

Bachmann at Rainbow Railways
Tuesday 10th & Wednesday 11th November 2026

Rainbow Railways
Linlithgow Bridge, Scotland

No booking is required – simply come along and join us.

Whether you’re a Bachmann enthusiast, looking forward to the latest releases, or just enjoy talking model railways, we’d love to see you.

Keep an eye on the Rainbow Railways website and our social media channels as we reveal more details about the event over the coming weeks.

We look forward to welcoming you – and the Bachmann team – to Rainbow Railways this November!

A very special Grid has arrived at Rainbow Railways.

Cavalex Models has today revealed its latest OO Gauge Class 56 – 56006 in BR Blue – and both the DCC Ready and DCC Sound Fitted versions are available to order now from Rainbow Railways.

But this isn't simply another Class 56 release. 56006 holds a unique place in British railway history as the first member of the Class 56 fleet to enter service with British Rail.

The First Class 56 to Enter BR Service

During the 1970s, British Rail identified a need for a new generation of powerful freight locomotives, particularly to handle the enormous volumes of coal being moved between Britain's collieries and power stations.

The first 30 Class 56 locomotives were constructed by Electroputere at Craiova in Romania, with subsequent members of the class being constructed in Britain.

56006 was one of those original Romanian-built locomotives.

After travelling across Europe to Zeebrugge and then by train ferry to Harwich, the locomotive was moved to Tinsley for commissioning. Problems affecting the first Romanian-built locomotives resulted in extensive rectification work being required before they could enter traffic.

On 25 February 1977, 56006 was finally accepted into traffic by British Rail.

In doing so, 56006 became the first Class 56 to enter BR service.

From Tinsley to Britain's Coal Network

Initially allocated to Tinsley, 56006 was soon employed on exactly the work for which the new Class 56 fleet had been designed.

Merry-go-round coal trains became a staple of the locomotive's working life, moving coal from the extensive network of South Yorkshire collieries to major power stations including Ferrybridge, Eggborough and Drax.

That association was eventually recognised in January 1995 when 56006 received the name “Ferrybridge C Power Station”.

Despite its heavy freight pedigree, 56006 wasn't restricted entirely to freight.

Over the years it was called upon to haul passenger services, including locomotive-hauled drags when engineering work prevented electric traction from operating. It also appeared on enthusiast railtours including the Cattal Grid, Marching Cat and Desert Mule.

56006 Returns to BR Blue

Over its working life, 56006 wore several of the liveries most closely associated with the Class 56.

It began life in BR Blue before subsequently appearing in original Railfreight Grey, Railfreight Triple Grey with Coal sub-sector branding and the distinctive black and orange colours of Loadhaul.

Then, in August 1999, EWS returned 56006 to BR Blue ahead of the EWS Classic Traction Event at the East Lancashire Railway the following month.

After the event, 56006 joined a number of locomotives in the EWS heritage fleet, celebrating the history of the locomotive classes inherited by the company.

It gave 56006 something of a celebrity status during the final years of widespread Class 56 operation, with the locomotive becoming an ambassador for the increasingly scarce Grids.

It is this BR Blue EWS-era appearance that Cavalex Models has recreated with its new OO Gauge model.

From Mainline Service to Preservation

56006 remained in service until December 2003, only a few months before EWS withdrew its remaining Class 56 fleet in March 2004.

Thankfully, that wasn't the end of 56006.

Following withdrawal, the locomotive spent time at Barrow Hill and UKRL's Leicester Depot before being purchased by the Class 56 Group in November 2012.

56006 subsequently moved to the East Lancashire Railway, where it continues to be cared for by a dedicated team of Class 56 Group volunteers.

Today, 56006 is the sole preserved Class 56 locomotive, giving it an especially important role in representing a class that was once such a familiar sight on Britain's heavy freight railway.

A Model That Helps Support the Real 56006

There is an additional and particularly worthwhile element to the Cavalex 56006 project.

Cavalex Models will be making a donation to the Class 56 Group from the proceeds of sales of these models.

The Class 56 Group was formed in 1992 by enthusiasts who wanted to see examples of this important class preserved for future generations. Having owned 56040, 56301 and 56006 over the years, the group's efforts are now concentrated on the preservation and continued care of 56006.

That means purchasing the new Cavalex model doesn't simply give you the opportunity to own a miniature recreation of an historically important locomotive – sales of the models are also helping support the group responsible for looking after the real 56006.

Cavalex 56006 – Available Now

Cavalex has produced 56006 in OO Gauge in two versions:

DCC Ready
Catalogue Number: CM-56006-BRBEWS

DCC Sound Fitted
Catalogue Number: CM-56006-BRBEWS-SF

Both versions depict 56006 in the BR Blue livery applied by EWS and carried during the locomotive's final years of mainline service.

Both models are available to order now from Rainbow Railways.

50 Years of the Class 56

The timing of this release makes 56006's story particularly relevant.

2026 marks 50 years since the first members of the Class 56 fleet arrived in Britain.

Then, on 25 February 2027, another important milestone will be reached – 50 years since 56006 became the first Class 56 to enter service with British Rail.

From its arrival from Romania and decades hauling some of Britain's heaviest freight trains to its EWS heritage role and eventual preservation, 56006 has earned a unique place in the Class 56 story.

The new Cavalex model celebrates that history while also helping support the locomotive's future.

A very special Grid – and one we're delighted to have available at Rainbow Railways.

How does a lifelong interest in model railways begin?

For some, it's a parent or grandparent buying that first train set. For others, it's seeing a model railway at an exhibition, watching real trains or simply pushing a wooden locomotive around a BRIO railway. At Rainbow Railways, we believe encouraging that first spark is important. With phones, tablets and gaming competing for so much of our attention, hobbies that encourage youngsters to build, create, solve problems and use their imagination have an important part to play. And we're fortunate here at Linlithgow Bridge to see that journey begin at a very early age.

From BRIO to a First Train Set

Rainbow Railways shares its building with Playbugs Softplay, which is owned by Rainbow director Mark Darragh. Playbugs caters for youngsters from the crawling stage through to around 10 years old, welcoming around 200 children and their families during a typical week. Next door at Rainbow, youngsters can discover a very different type of play. Our BRIO wooden railway play table is permanently set up in the shop, and it's there to be played with. We stock around 30 products from the wider BRIO range, giving families plenty of options when they want to start a wooden railway at home or add to one they already have. For some children, that's their introduction to the world of trains. And there's plenty more to discover. We stock Ravensburger jigsaws, Toyway wooden construction kits and dinosaurs, CaDA brick-building sets and beginner radio-controlled vehicles from Double E alongside model kits from brands including Airfix and Bandai.

But inevitably, we're Rainbow Railways – and sooner or later we get to the trains!

Choosing That First Proper Train Set

We regularly meet parents and grandparents who know that a youngster loves trains but have absolutely no idea what they should buy. And that's completely understandable. OO? N? Analogue? DCC? What's a controller? How much track do you need? How big does the board have to be? Can you add to the set later?

For somebody completely new to model railways, what seems straightforward to an experienced modeller can quickly become confusing. That's where we're happy to help. Rather than simply pointing towards a box on a shelf, we can talk through what the youngster is interested in, the space available and what the family hopes to do with the railway. If you're planning something more permanent, we'll even help with track planning and advise on what you'll need to turn that first train set into a proper layout.

There is no requirement to understand model railways before walking into Rainbow Railways. That's what we're here for.

From First Train Set to Model Railway

One of the great things about this hobby is that there is always something else to learn. A basic oval of track can become a siding. Then perhaps a station appears. Buildings are added. Scenery follows. Suddenly someone wants points, signals and lighting. Before long they're learning about paints, modelling materials, landscapes and how the real railway operates. And for those who want to take things further, Rainbow can continue helping with track, scenery, tools and modelling materials through to Digital Command Control (DCC), locomotive sound and much more advanced railway control. It's a hobby that can combine creativity, electronics, woodworking, history, research, problem solving and artistic skills – often without the modeller even realising how much they're learning along the way.

From Young Enthusiast to Exhibition Modeller – at Just 17

Occasionally we're fortunate enough to see where encouraging that early interest can lead. One young local railway enthusiast first came to our attention through a nearby model railway club. The club was helping to nurture his interest and, as time went on, we watched his enthusiasm and modelling develop. He didn't just build his own model railway. He built an exhibition layout. Today he's only 17 years old, has already exhibited his first layout and is now building his second. We're deliberately not naming him here, but his story is one we're particularly pleased to have watched develop. It also demonstrates something important about the model railway community. Retailers such as Rainbow can provide advice and equipment, but clubs, exhibitions, experienced modellers and, importantly, supportive parents and grandparents all play a part in encouraging the next generation.

A Hobby That Can Last a Lifetime

Rainbow Railways today serves railway modellers throughout the UK. At the specialist end of the hobby we supply highly detailed locomotives and rolling stock, track and scenery, DCC equipment and sound-fitted models, as well as providing specialist advice and services to experienced modellers. We work with the leading names in British model railways and have been involved in our own exclusive and collaborative models. Yet despite all the sophistication of modern model railways, everyone has to start somewhere. That's why we're just as happy helping a grandparent who knows nothing about model railways choose a youngster's first train set as we are discussing DCC, sound and highly detailed locomotives with an experienced modeller. Because that first train set matters. The youngster playing with BRIO today might ask for an electric train next. That train might become a layout. That layout might develop skills and friendships. And, as we've already seen locally, that youngster might eventually take their own creation to a model railway exhibition.

Today's BRIO railway on the play table could be tomorrow's exhibition layout.

And we'd love to help them get there.

NOW AVAILABLE TO PRE-ORDER!

Few locomotives capture the imagination quite like the mighty Class 37, and Accurascale's latest batch delivers another stunning selection of prototypes covering over six decades of railway history.

Due to arrive in Q2 2027, these highly anticipated models are now available to pre-order from Rainbow Railways, with both DC/DCC Ready and DCC Sound Fitted versions available.

New Main Range Releases

37516 "Loch Laidon" – West Coast Railways

Presented in the striking maroon colours of West Coast Railways, 37516 "Loch Laidon" represents one of the most recognisable preserved-era Class 37s operating today. Featuring a refurbished Class 37/5 bodyshell with flush headcode panels and plated corridor connection doors, this locomotive is perfect for modern-era layouts depicting charter, railtour and infrastructure operations.

37106 – Civil Engineer's Dutch

The ever-popular BR Engineers' "Dutch" livery returns to the Accurascale range on split-headcode machine 37106. A familiar sight on infrastructure and engineers' trains throughout the 1990s, this unrefurbished Class 37/0 perfectly captures an important period in British Rail's final years and early privatisation era.

37185 – BR Blue with Cornish Railways "Wizzy" Logos

One of the most distinctive Class 37s ever to run in Cornwall, 37185 carries the famous "Wizzy the Lizard" logos applied to locomotives working the county's iconic china clay traffic. This unique model is the perfect partner for Accurascale's excellent clayhood wagons and is certain to become a favourite amongst Western Region enthusiasts.

37088 – BR Blue

For fans of classic BR Blue, 37088 offers a superb representation of a traditional split-headcode Class 37. Complete with original bufferbeam fairings and presented in plain BR Blue, this locomotive is ideal for recreating railway scenes from the 1970s and 1980s.

D6713 – BR Green

Going right back to the beginning of the Class 37 story, D6713 appears in original BR Green as an English Electric Type 3. Allocated to Stratford following construction at Vulcan Foundry in 1961, this locomotive represents the dawn of dieselisation and the start of what would become one of Britain's most successful locomotive classes.

Accurascale Exclusive Models Also Available

Don't forget that you can also secure Accurascale's previously announced exclusive Class 37s alongside these latest releases:

• D6724 in mid-1960s condition, supporting the Heavy Tractor Group
• 37403 "Ben Cruachan" in BR Heritage Green, supporting the Scottish Railway Preservation Society
• 37716 in modern DRS "Fade" livery, produced in partnership with Rainbow Railways

These special editions continue to prove extremely popular and are expected to sell strongly ahead of release.

Pricing & Availability

Expected Arrival: Q2 2027

DC / DCC Ready: £189.95
DCC Sound Fitted: £289.95

With no deposit required to reserve your model, now is the perfect time to secure your chosen locomotive before allocations begin to tighten.

Whether you're modelling the BR Blue era, the Dutch sectorisation years, modern charter operations or the early days of dieselisation, this latest Class 37 release offers something for every enthusiast.

Pre-order yours today with Rainbow Railways and ensure a place in the queue for what promises to be another exceptional Accurascale release.

Few Scottish preserved locomotives have a story quite like 46464 “The Carmyllie Pilot.” After an incredible 24-year restoration, the locomotive returned to steam during a special unveiling ceremony at Boat of Garten on 22 June 2024, coinciding with the locomotive’s 74th birthday and marking its official return to steam after some 44 years out of traffic. - Source: Strathspey Railway Express – “The Big Day”

The Model

The new Bachmann release provides the ideal starting point for modellers wanting to recreate the preserved locomotive:

Model locomotive:
Branchline 32‑832 LMS Ivatt 2MT 46464 – OO Gauge

The Finishing Touch

To complement the model, Rainbow Railways has produced finely detailed etched “THE CARMYLLIE PILOT COMPANY LTD” plates matching those now carried by the real locomotive:

Etched plates:
46464 The Carmyllie Pilot Co Ltd Nameplate Set

These distinctive curved red plates have become synonymous with the locomotive following its return to steam and offer the perfect way to recreate 46464 in preservation condition.

Photo credits: Trevor Gregg – official unveiling image at Boat of Garten. (srexpress.co.uk)

As Europe turns its eyes to Vienna for another spectacular week of the Eurovision Song Contest 2026, the railway world has found its own way to join the party — and it comes in the form of one of the most eye-catching locomotives to hit the rails in recent years.

The stunning Roco ÖBB 1116 203 Eurovision Song Contest Loco VI DCC Sound celebrates the special Eurovision-themed Taurus locomotive unveiled by Österreichische Bundesbahnen (ÖBB) ahead of the contest. Named ceremonially in Vienna on 18 February, the real-life Class 1116 “Taurus” locomotive quickly became a rolling ambassador for the competition, hauling prestigious Railjet services across Austria and into Germany, Hungary and Switzerland.

And now, thanks to Roco, modellers can bring that same Eurovision magic to their layouts.

A Locomotive Designed to Steal the Spotlight

The prototype locomotive features a vibrant special-event livery designed to capture the energy and colour of Eurovision itself. Covered in bold graphics and promotional artwork, it stands out dramatically against the sleek Railjet coaching stock it typically hauls.

Roco’s H0 scale reproduction captures these details beautifully, with:

• Full DCC Sound functionality
• Finely detailed roof equipment
• Authentic ÖBB markings
• Additional Swiss package and pantograph
• Railjet-compatible coupling adapter
• Detailed printing faithful to the original Eurovision design

It’s a perfect fit for modern Epoch VI layouts and an ideal centrepiece for anyone modelling contemporary European operations.

Why Eurovision and Railways Work So Well Together

There’s something fitting about Eurovision being represented by rail. The contest itself is all about connecting countries, cultures and communities across Europe — and Railjet services do exactly the same thing every day.

The real 1116 203 Taurus has become a travelling celebration of European unity, carrying the Eurovision branding across borders while turning heads everywhere it runs. For railway enthusiasts, it’s another fantastic example of how modern rail operators are using special liveries to engage with wider audiences and major cultural events.

A Real Talking Point for Any Layout

Whether you’re a Eurovision fan, a collector of special liveries, or simply love modern European traction, this release is guaranteed to stand out in any collection.

Special-event locomotives have become increasingly desirable among collectors, and the Eurovision Taurus is likely to become one of the most recognisable modern Austrian locomotive designs ever produced.

Pair it with contemporary Railjet stock, add station lighting, and you’ve instantly got a train that feels ready to arrive centre-stage in Vienna itself.

Eurovision Fever Meets Model Railways

As the music, lights and performances take over Europe this week, it’s brilliant to see the hobby celebrating alongside it. The Eurovision Taurus perfectly captures the fun and spectacle of the contest while showcasing the impressive style of modern European railways.

Purchase this loco here - Fitting for a Eurovision locomotive, the DCC Sound version has taken centre stage first and is available now, while the non-sound version is due to arrive in the coming weeks! 🎶🚂

One thing is certain — this is a locomotive douze points were guaranteed for. 🌈🚂

Rainbow Railways is delighted to confirm that the next exhibition we will be attending is the Scottish Festival of Railway Modelling 2026 at Braehead Arena, Glasgow.

The event takes place on:

• Saturday 23rd May 2026
• Sunday 24th May 2026

and promises to be one of Scotland’s biggest model railway weekends of the year, featuring layouts from across the UK alongside leading manufacturers, specialist traders, clubs, and societies.

Rainbow Railways is proud to bring our usual high quality and diverse trade stand for the event, joining a strong line-up of exhibitors and manufacturers from across the hobby.

Visitors to the Rainbow Railways stand will be able to browse a wide selection of:

• New releases
• Bargain offers
• Accessories and scenic items
• Exclusive and custom models
• Latest arrivals and exhibition specials

The team will also be on hand throughout the weekend to chat all things model railways and help customers find the perfect additions to their layouts.

As a Scottish-based retailer, attending events like Braehead is hugely important to us, giving us the chance to meet customers face-to-face and continue supporting the growing model railway community across Scotland and beyond.

We look forward to seeing everyone there!

For more information about the event visit:
Scottish Festival of Railway Modelling

And for the latest stock updates and exhibition announcements visit:
Rainbow Railways

Team Rainbow 🚂🌈

A mischievous piece of Scottish nostalgia is heading to model shop shelves this year as EFE Road unveils a special limited-edition bus model celebrating 75 years of Dennis the Menace.

The new release – the E36720 Dennis Dart SLF/Pointer 2 “Dennis the Menace 75th Anniversary Special” – has been created in partnership with Beano Studios and publisher DC Thomson as part of the nationwide “Year of Mischief” celebrations for 2026.

The highly detailed die-cast model combines one of Britain’s most recognisable buses – the Dennis Dart – with Scotland’s most iconic comic character, creating what collectors are already calling the ultimate “Dennis on a Dennis” release.

Featuring authentic artwork of Dennis and Gnasher, alongside a fictional “Service 75” destination board for Bash Street School and Beanotown, the model captures the humour and spirit that have entertained generations since Dennis first appeared in The Beano in 1951.

Produced by EFE Road, the model is designed to complement OO gauge model railways in 1:76 scale and will arrive with Bachmann stockists later this year.

Scotland’s Model Shops Prepare for Demand

Scottish model shops are expected to see strong demand for the collectable release, with transport and railway modelling continuing to enjoy a surge in popularity among enthusiasts, families and younger hobbyists alike.

Leading Scottish retailers stocking EFE and Bachmann products include Rainbow Railways, Harburn Hobbies, Scoonie Hobbies and Wonderland Models, all of which have become destinations for collectors searching for limited-edition transport and railway models.

Independent retailers say products linked to recognisable British brands and nostalgia themes continue to perform especially well, bringing in everyone from lifelong collectors to parents introducing children to the hobby for the first time.

Click here to order

More Than a Hobby

For many enthusiasts, model shops provide far more than simply a place to buy trains, buses and accessories.

Across Scotland, traditional hobby retailers have increasingly become valued community spaces where customers can slow down, talk to fellow enthusiasts and enjoy a calming escape from modern life.

Retailers report that visitors often spend hours browsing displays, discussing layouts and sharing memories linked to buses, railways and favourite childhood comics such as The Beano.

Mental wellbeing charities have previously highlighted the positive benefits of hobbies that encourage focus, creativity and social interaction, and model railways and die-cast collecting are often praised for helping reduce stress and isolation.

Shops such as Rainbow Railways have built reputations as welcoming destinations for enthusiasts of all ages, combining extensive product ranges with expert advice and a relaxed atmosphere that many customers describe as therapeutic.

With the Dennis the Menace anniversary bus set to blend Scottish heritage, transport nostalgia and collectable appeal, retailers are expecting the model to become one of the standout novelty releases of the year.

And for many collectors, it may prove impossible to resist the charm of putting Dennis the Menace behind the wheel of a Dennis Dart.

Model railway retailer Rainbow Railways has announced an exciting expansion into the wider hobby market, confirming it now stocks construction kits from CaDA and plastic model kits from Bandai.

The move marks a significant step for the Linlithgow Bridge–based retailer, best known for its extensive model railway catalogue, as it continues to broaden its appeal to hobbyists beyond traditional rail modelling.

A Natural Expansion for Hobby Enthusiasts

Rainbow Railways has built a strong reputation for its wide stock range and specialist services, and the addition of CaDA and Bandai kits aligns closely with its existing customer base. Many railway modellers already enjoy hands-on building and detailing, making construction kits and plastic models a logical extension.

CaDA is known for its detailed brick-built models, often featuring vehicles, machinery, and remote-control functionality. Meanwhile, Bandai is globally recognised for its high-quality plastic kits, particularly in the modelling community for their precision engineering and satisfying build experience.

Broadening the Product Offering

The new range includes:

• CaDA construction kits, from smaller builds to larger, highly detailed models
• Bandai plastic kits, including beginner-friendly snap-fit models and more advanced builds
• A selection of entry-level and hobbyist kits designed to appeal to both new and experienced builders

This expansion complements Rainbow Railways’ existing lineup of model trains, accessories, and custom services such as sound fitting and resprays.

Supporting the Local Hobby Community

Rainbow Railways continues to emphasise its commitment to supporting hobbyists both locally and across the UK. By diversifying into adjacent modelling categories, the retailer aims to become a one-stop shop for enthusiasts who enjoy building, collecting, and customising.

Customers can expect the same focus on competitive pricing, clear stock availability, and fast delivery that has helped the business grow its loyal customer base.

Looking Ahead

The addition of CaDA and Bandai products signals a broader strategy for Rainbow Railways to expand beyond model railways while staying firmly rooted in the hobby sector. Further range extensions and exclusive items are expected as the company continues to evolve.

For hobbyists, it means more choice, more creativity, and more reasons to explore what Rainbow Railways has to offer.