If you’re searching for the ideal gift for a young boy then the option of a train set is always a good idea to think about. It’s an absolute classic gift for boys and it will be very well received. Ask any grown man if he can remember getting his first train set and you’ll see exactly what I mean.

The days when every young boy wanted to be a train driver when they grew up may well be behind us now, but trains still possess a certain magic. They have a timeless appeal that endears them to us even in these modern times when other modes of transport may be more to the fore. And regardless of whether you have a hankering for the golden age of steam or some more modern rolling stock you can be certain that your requirements will be met.

Hornby Trains are, without any shadow of a doubt, the best known manufacturer of model trains and model railway equipment around. Their now famous oo gauge standard system means that you can take a basic starter set customise it and add to it over a period of time. If you decide to give a Hornby train set as a present then the lucky child who receives it will be able to use their imagination and add extra track, additional trains and a huge range of accessories in accordance with their design.

There’s a wide variety of different sets on offer from Hornby. Younger children might find the “Thomas The Tank Engine” range entertaining. You can also get the “Hogwarts Express” – as featured in Harry Potter – for older children. Then there are the replicas of real locomotives – though whether these are toys or model trains is debatable.

If you are interested in the glory days of steam then there’s plenty to choose from. The Mallard and the Flying Scotsman are always popular choices and there are many more options available. Some of them are “superstars” such as the City of York. Others are more down to earth workhorse – but with their own utilitarian beauty nonetheless.

Alternatively you could opt for a more modern, possibly a more utilitarian approach, and go for a diesel or electric set up. The class 52 diesel locomotive was, in its day, every bit as iconic as the Mallard and the Flying Scotsman – if somewhat less aesthetically pleasing.

The Virgin Pendolino is currently the mainstay of the UK rail long distance passenger network. Hornby of course have a train set based on these locos. It even tilts when it goes round the bends in the tracks.

Whether your intended gift recipient would prefer steam locos, grubby diesels of ultra modern electric trains, there’s a Hornby model to suit. If they subsequently change their mind then the fact that the Hornby system is standardised means that they can change the theme of their train set very easily.

You can’t beat a train set by Hornby Trains – it’ll give years of fun and enjoyment. Check out the Hogwarts Express – it’s a great starter set.