TT:120 Gauge TT4031 GWR, Mk3 Standard Open Trailer, 42301 - Era 11 Rolling Stock - Coaches for Model Railway Sets

In order to accommodate higher speeds of up to 125 mph on Britain's Victorian-era railways, British Railways required new rolling stock. Significant improvements over the Mk2 included the introduction of new secondary air suspension between the bogies and the coach body, as well as the addition of aerodynamic skirting on the underframe.

The Mk3 coaches, measuring 75ft (23m) in length, provided far greater capacity compared to their older counterparts. These coaches also incorporated disk brakes and wheel slip protection, enabling faster deceleration. The first Mk3 coaches were used as part of the High-Speed Train (HST) prototype, along with the two Class 41 diesel power cars, in 1972. Mk3 coaches entered regular service in 1975, forming the iconic InterCity 125 trainset in conjunction with the Class 43 power cars.

After the introduction of the HST Mk3 coach variant, further Mk3 coaches were deployed on the West Coast Mainline for use as part of locomotive-hauled trains. While Mk3 stock is the standard for HST units, the standard locomotive-hauled stock is the Mk3a. The Mk3a stock differs from Mk3 due to the inclusion of buffers and a different electrical system that utilizes motor-generator units in each coach to power air conditioning and other ancillaries. Mk3a stock was built until 1984, before the Mk3B stock, featuring improved seating and lighting, was produced from 1985 to 1988.

Even after four decades, the Mark 3 coaches and Class 43 units remain in service, with one of the most prominent users being the Great Western Railway (GWR). GWR's Class 255 Castle sets, comprising two 43 units and four coaches, were refurbished between 2018 and 2020 to create 12 trains, with the first being introduced in March 2019.

Combining a small world with big ideas, Hornby's TT:120 scale model railway system offers an alternative to the more common '00' and 'N' scales, making model railways more accessible for those with limited space. Sitting in between the two, the Hornby TT:120 is smaller than '00' and can easily fit on a baseboard that can be stored in small spaces within the home. This scale allows both the young and old to easily handle the models.

Embarking on the hobby of model railways can be a lifelong endeavor, one that combines design, creativity, history, and travel, while also bringing generations and families together. For those working with a young person, it is recommended to start with one of the Hornby TT:120 train sets and build the layout from there. Explore Hornby's vast range of TT:120 scale model wagons and coaches, from Brake and Vent vans to Composite Corridors and Tourist Standard Opens, to elevate your model railway experience.

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