Callington Branch Layout Plans

 

The latest edition of Model Rail has not one but two track plans for a Callington Branch layout, one modelling the whole line from Bere Alston and the other a section from Callington to Chilsworthy Halt. I don't have space or time to build either but a smaller shunting layout based on the Hingston Down  part of the plan or a through and through based on the Chilsworthy Halt section would be workable. It's a short article but well worth a look.

Ideas for Layouts

I bought a copy of this in WHSmiths in Bideford a couple of days ago, which is ironic as the first layout design inside is of a fictional Bideford quay standard gauge station. I also visited the two model railway shops in the town, which is pretty impressive for such a rural location, but didn't find anything to buy as I wasn't really looking for a specific thing. I'll just have to go back another time!

Minimal Space Layout Ideas

I have been reading through lots of model railway books and magazines recently, especially the Model Rail magazines and special editions on compact layouts and building minimal space layouts, which are packed full of useful ideas and advice. I particularly rate the articles and books written by Chris Nevard, Chris Ford and David Wright, all of which are full of inspirational photos, information and ideas. It's given me a bit of a 'boot up the proverbial' to actually start putting my own shunting layout (or two) back on track.

Compact Layouts

The latest edition of Model Rail is themed around compact layout design, including how to design your own inglenook shunting layout using off the shelf, ready to run rolling stock, track and locomotives. I particularly liked the article on devising shunting games based on a random card draw system. A really good issue and a bargain at only just over four quid.