The Model Railway Quest Show came to Clacton for the first time on 14 December. Held at the Clacton Leisure Centre, the show featured 25 model railway layouts, showcasing different time periods, locations, and themes.
Highlights included Tsuriito, believed to be the world’s first underwater model railway layout, and Ian Redman’s miniature layout set inside a coconut shell.
Brief Encounter Monochrome by Dawn Quest stood out, painted entirely in 32 shades of grey to reflect the 1954 film Brief Encounter. Other displays included Dave Carson’s New Walmington Pier, showcasing a pier tramway from Edwardian times, and Fred Gallone’s model of Brightlingsea.
In addition to the layouts, visitors had the chance to engage with interactive displays where they could test their train-driving skills.
The show also had 18 trade stands, selling new and second-hand locos, railway memorabilia, and model supplies.
Over 800 visitors attended the event. Dawn Quest, the organiser, said, “We’re delighted with the turnout. It’s great to see the model railway hobby alive in Clacton and beyond.”
Quest has held annual shows in Kent, East Sussex, and London. This marks their first show in Clacton, with plans already in place for 2026.
Quest, a model railway enthusiast and TV producer, also runs the Women Railway Modellers Facebook group, aiming to encourage more women into the hobby.
Model Railway Quest’s shows are now held in Hastings, Sevenoaks and Clacton.
