If you need to buy a present for a young boy then the option of choosing a train set is always one that you should consider. It's always a popular and well received gift - just ask any adult male if they can remember getting their first train set and you'll soon see what I mean.

It's probably fair to say that the days when every young boy wanted to be either a train driver or a fireman are gone now. Nevertheless, there is still a certain magic about trains. They have an enduring appeal that endears them to us even in these modern times. And whether you have a fancy for the age of steam or more up to date rolling stock, you can be sure that your needs will be well catered for.

Hornby Trains are far and away the best known manufacturer of model railways. One of the big advantages of Hornby's range is that it is standardised. The now famous oo system means that even if you start with a relatively basic set, you can add to it and expand it in time. So, if you choose to give a Hornby train set as a gift, the lucky child who receives it will be able to add more trains, more track and a wide variety of accessories according to their own design.

There's a huge range of different Hornby sets to choose from. The "Thomas The Tank Engine" set may appeal to younger children. Slightly older children may find the "Hogwarts Express" set based on the Harry Potter movies appealing. And of course, there are the replicas of real trains - though it's debatable whether these should be considered as toys or model trains.

If you crave the romance of the age of steam then you really are spoiled for choice. The Flying Scotsman and the Mallard are ever popular choices. There are plenty others to choose from - some of them "superstars" like the City of York for example, others are more mundane workhorses. Puffing Billies - but with their own functional beauty nonetheless.

You could, if you wish, go for a more modern and slightly more utilitarian approach and choose a diesel electric set up. In its day, the class 52 diesel was every bit as iconic as many of the more famous steam locos - though admittedly a good deal less pleasing to the eye.

Today the Virgin Pendolino trains plough up and down the country. Needless to say, Hornby have a model of this as well, which actually tilts as it goes round the bends in the tracks.

So whether you think that your intended gift recipient would fancy steam, diesel or electric trains, you can be sure that there's a Hornby train set to suit. Even if they change their mind later, the standardised nature of the Hornby system means that they can develop their set in whichever manner they wish.

You can't beat a train set by Hornby Trains - it'll give years of fun and enjoyment. Check out the world famous Hornby Flying Scotsman - it's the ideal starter set.

Posted under Model Trains