Modelling Specific Locations on Layouts

[RobertInOntario]

I’ve just started modelling an actual, historic location on my small British 00 (similar to HO) layout. This is the first time that I’ve actually tried to model a specific location — usually, I’ve just winged it, ending up creating a fictional site.

I’ve been generally trying to model the famous Somerset & Dorset line in SW England. One reason: this line saw a wide variety of locos and rolling stock running through it so it allows you to use many different types of locos. It’s also a very scenic part of England and this railway (at least in Britain) is quite legendary.

I’ve chosen to model Wellow Station in Somerset (near Bath). I’m enjoying this and am preoccupied with finding historic pics from the 1950s and 1960s, trying to find images to base my layout on.

In many ways, modelling a real location simplifies things — you just try to copy the original site. All of the details (i.e. Where the station building, interlocking tower, signals, etc. are located) are already decided for you. When I’ve modelled fictional locations, I’ve spent some time puzzling over where to place the various items on the layout & how to make them look, making them realistic and consistent for the time period and location.

Just wondering if most other folks try to model actual locations, or are ficitional or “semi-fictional” locations just as popular? As mentioned, this is turning out to be more fun & easier than I expected.

Thanks,
Rob