A Journey Through Time
A brief history of Hornby trains from the legendary Binns Road factory in Liverpool, a legacy of British engineering and childhood dreams.
1920
Frank Hornby introduces 'The Hornby Clockwork Train' in O gauge, a simple but robust model assembled with Meccano nuts and bolts.
1925
The first Hornby electric train is introduced, running on a high-voltage AC system. This was a significant step into the future of model railways.
1927
The No. 3 locomotive range appears, featuring famous express engines like the 'Flying Scotsman' and 'Royal Scot', along with larger Pullman coaches.
1931
Automatic couplings are introduced on O gauge models, a major step forward for operational realism and play value.
1937
The pinnacle of O gauge is reached with the introduction of the powerful 4-6-2 'Princess Elizabeth', Hornby's largest and most impressive locomotive.
1938
Hornby Dublo (00 gauge) is launched. The name, meaning "Double O", introduces a smaller, more accessible scale with its iconic 3-rail track system, featuring diecast locomotives.
1939-1945
Production of toys ceases during World War II as the Binns Road factory dedicates its resources to the war effort.
1948
Post-war production of Hornby Dublo resumes with the LMS 'Duchess of Atholl' and LNER 'Sir Nigel Gresley' Pacifics, beginning a golden age for the brand.
1953
The first Hornby Dublo models in the new British Railways (BR) livery are announced, reflecting the nationalisation of the railways.
1957
Competition intensifies. The first authentic Great Western loco, the 'Bristol Castle', is introduced, and plastic wheels begin to appear on rolling stock.
1959
To compete with emerging rivals, Hornby introduces its 2-rail system for Dublo, offering a more realistic track appearance. Both 2-rail and 3-rail systems are produced concurrently.
1960
"Super-detail" coaches are released with plastic roofs and greater scale accuracy, along with the powerful new ring-field motor for top-tier locomotives.
1964
Facing financial difficulty, Meccano Ltd is purchased by its main rival, Lines Bros., the owners of the Tri-ang Railways brand.
1965
The original Hornby Dublo range is officially discontinued, marking the end of an era for the Binns Road factory. The brand is merged to become Tri-ang Hornby.