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 great things about train sets. They are certainly a high end toy and they do cost a little more than some of the other toys on sale in the shops. However, they also have an appeal which is longer lasting than the majority of other toys - so they can represent excellent value for money. Video games, for example, are often completed by kids in a matter of days. When they're done then they are finished with and won't be used again. On the other hand, a good quality train set can, with a little care and attention, last for years and provide fun and entertainment long after the latest video game or fad toy is forgotten about.

If you're not sure whether or not a traditional gift such as a train set is a good idea in our modern digital age then why not perform the following test? Just ask any adult male whether or not they can remember their first train set. Watch closely as they assume a glazed expression as they travel back in time to relive the excitement of tip-toeing into the living room on Christmas morning to find their train set under the tree.

If you do decide to give a train set as a gift then you should consider the age of the intended recipient when selecting the set. Hornby trains produce train sets which are specifically designed for younger children. They have a set based upon the ever popular Thomas The Tank Engine which includes many of his friends. Younger children will love it. Older children may find something like the Hogwarts Express - from the Harry Potter films - more engaging.

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.

A train set really is a great gift for a young child - even in this day and age. It will provide hours of fun and entertainment and will be a fond childhood memory for the lucky recipient in years to come.

A high quality train set from Hornby trains is a gift that will give pleasure for many 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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