A long gone era!

Mrs. Woody gave this to me as a Christmas present back in 2023. 

It is a beautifully presented train pack of one of the pioneering locomotives along with some appropriate rolling stock from a long gone era at the start of railways.

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Apart from looking at it, I sadly admit to never having run the train. However, that changed and it was unpacked and although the background of Gailston, my 00 gauge terminus layout is perhaps not quite the right era, it did at least allow me to enjoy seeing the loco and rolling stock on the track and running.

Getting it out of its box, two things strike you. One is how small it all is and secondly just how visually stunning the whole train is. You won't see something like this roll into your local railway station! Even Mrs. W was impressed by its looks!

The engine, Lion, even comes with a driver and fireman dressed in the style of the day. I guess that they really did not like any bad weather with the lack of any cab to protect them.

Meanwhile, in this long gone and different era, if you had the money a First Class ticket would get you the luxury of an enclosed carriage very much on the lines of the old horse drawn stage coaches that at the time were still being used.

Luggage would go on the roof!

Regardless of the weather, a third class ticket would get you a ride in this!

Little more than a wagon but I guess for those able to afford even the third class ticket it was a luxurious way to travel! I think I will be grateful for the luxury offered even with my second class ticket on todays railway system!