Museum of Transport
Gauge: 'OO' | Period: Preservation | Region: English town | Operating team: Robin Brodgen
This popular 4mm layout consists of a fictitious Museum of Transport situated in the regenerated former dockland of an English town. Railway exhibits are housed in a purpose-built Railway Gallery while 4mm scale electric tramcars operate on a double track around part of the layout that also includes the Road Gallery housing an extensive collection of classic motor vehicles and the tramway depot.
A miniature railway (based on ‘N’ gauge models) operates around this area and beyond. A diesel railcar operates to and from the Engine Shed along the dockside line, crossing over the two branch docks by a ‘Bascule’ bridge and then a swing bridge. In the first dock is a freelance Edwardian passenger steamer and a retired coastal Lightship, based on the Spurn Light. A second deep-water dock features additional maritime exhibits including the steam paddle-driven tug PS Eric Cope and the restored ‘Clyde Puffer’ Connie. A canal basin is included in this area with working narrow boats while there is also a ‘green’ area with a bandstand, vintage vehicles, a hot-air balloon and more.
The front part of the layout offers an area available for varied displays; bus rallies, military vehicle displays, car rallies and more and is dominated by an ex-RAF Lancaster Bomber, which performs regular ‘power-up’ demonstrations with sound. The main station for the Miniature Railway is located here. A visiting Brass Band plays a selection of melodies throughout the exhibitions. An extensive ‘Can You Find…’ list is displayed with several animals and unusual items that children (of all ages) may like to look out for.
The Museum of Transport is a layout with constant movement and activity with many exciting features to entertain all ages and all interests. It has been on the exhibition circuit for almost 30 years and has attended more than 250 events – but it is always changing with new details and featuring being added.
