British Train Society
Our Layouts
The British Train Society currently operates two main club layouts; one OO gauge layout and a N-scale T-Trak layout. Both layouts are modular and British themed.
There have been at least two previous OO layouts operated by the club; one prior to roughly 2012, and one from 2012 through 2024.
In addition tot he two club layouts, many members have personal layouts they generously bring to exhibitions to display and operate alongside the club layouts.
Former OO Exhibition Layout
For many years, from 2012 through 2024, the BTS operated a OO layout based on a modular design. The OO gauge layout was a L shaped sectional layout roughly 12'x16'. The layout was a dual track loop operated as an 'up' and 'down' track. The layout was designed with the outside of the L as the public, scenicked, area and the inside as the fiddle yard area. The fiddle area includes two passing/fiddle loops on the inside of the L; one each for the up and down tracks.
This layout incorporated the viaduct model from the previous layout.
The track plan and track laying work were completed by Grant Harrison, and the scenicking work was done by various club members.
The layout structure was based on 2' x 4' modules. Module construction was via lightweight plywood with a 1/4" plywood surface. The modules were connected using hinges with removable pins.
Though lightwight, the layout was overly flexible and did not withstand the rigors of repeated assembly and transportation. In addition, the modular track plan dis not permit flexibility and limited where the module could be displayed. As such, in 2023, the club decided to build a new layout. The new layout was based on the HO T-Trak track standards, enabling layout flexibility, while retaining a modular design.
OO Scale Trolly Layout
This is an exhibition layout owned by Richard Smyth, and exhibited alongside the club layouts at shows we attend. The layout depicts a very compressed scene with a variety of trolleys running on OO track.
N Scale loop
Richard Smyth an avid modeler, and a prolific artist, in addition to the Trolly layout, Richard has a second N scale layout that he often brings to exhibitions. Richard's N scale layout is a small 2 ' x 3 ' layout with a loop of track on the main level and a bus scene on the upper level.