00 gauge micro layout

[Celtic_transport]

Hey everyone,

looking for some help with what will be my first "proper" layout. Been struggling for a while to come up with an idea for a layout. I have a space of 6ft by 1.5-2ft including fiddle yard. Id like to be able to display various stock while also having some operational interest. Any help would be greatly appreciated:)

cheers

[David Holman]

Depends what variety of stock you have. If it is mostly locos, then a shed/depot is probably the best option. Will post a few ideas later.

[Northroader]

Presume your models are 00, 4mm scale, 16.5mm gauge? Had a look through here for ideas?

 

https://micromodelrailwaydispatch.com

 

(Maybe an Irish take on Portmahomack, issue 3?)

 

Edited Monday at 09:38 by Northroader

[Galteemore]

That’s a great little publication which I always enjoy - recommended ! 

[David Holman]

Ok, here are a few ideas.

First up, Cyril Freezer's 'Small Layouts'. A bit dated now, but worth a look, because there may be something you could adapt.

  My favourite layout designer has always been Iain Rice. Always appealing and practical, but also so clever. The one below is what I based my Northport Quay project on

 This next one is based on Llanaster, one of the first exhibition layout to do away with the entry points to the loop - using a sector plate instead.

 This next one I have always thought particularly clever, arranging three small layouts one above the other on wall brackets. Trains progress from one scene to the next via a cassette.

 This one [above] was actually designed for 7mm scale, but should reduce to your parameters in 4mm.

 Idea to avoid are things like the two below from Barry Norman. Usually love his ideas, but when you look at these, you'll see that your locomotive will spend most of its time hidden off scene!

 

 This one I DO like though. It is a fairly accurate rendition of Wantage Town, minus the tram shed. However, even with the latter the whole scene needs just 7'2 in length in 7mm scale! Been there, done it & it works really well.

 Finally, a new book I picked up at Railex, by James Hilton & published by Wild Swan. It takes a fresh look at micro layouts, some of which are very simple indeed, but explores the concepts scenics and operation with each plan.

 Hope this helps!

[Celtic_transport]

Thanks everyone for your help, ive come up with a plan and era im happy with and i will keep yous up to date on its progress!