Life in MiniatureDon't Sweat the Small Stuff!

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 benefits of train sets. Although they are, very definitely, a high end toy and consequently they may cost a little more than some other toys on the market, they do tend to have more "sticking power" than many other toys. When the final boss on level 27 of the latest video game has been defeated - often after no more than a few days - the game is over. A good quality train set on the other hand will last for years and can often give pleasure to more than one generation of enthusiast.

If you're not entirely convinced that a toy as traditional as a train set is appropriate in our modern digital age then here's a very simple test that you carry out as a check. Simply ask any grown man whether or no they can still remember their first train set. Watch the look on their face as they mentally travel backwards in time and relive the excitement of finding their first train set under the family Christmas tree.

If you do opt for a train set as a gift then be sure to take the intended recipient's age into account. Hornby Trains produce sets which are intended for younger children. You can get a train set based upon the Reverend W. Awdry's ever popular Thomas The Tank Engine which is an ideal starter set for youngsters. For slightly older children something like the Hogwarts Express set, based upon the Harry Potter series of films, might be a better choice.

In addition to the locomotives and carriages, the layout of the track is also something that you should give some thought to. Watching a train which does nothing other than go round and round an oval or circular track will probably become boring for younger children fairly quickly. A couple of sidings, where the train can back into in order to pick up important goods for transportation would be good for the youngsters - likewise a platform or platforms where passengers can get on and off the train would probably add to the fun. In general, younger children will probably enjoy a busy, bustling freight set more than a passenger set.

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 train set from Hornby trains is a gift that will provide fun and enjoyment for years to come. Choose from a wide range of classic and modern themes - including the world famous Hornby Flying Scotsman - and your gift will be received with pleasure.

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