What is Peco Streamline?

Peco Streamline is a range of model railway track that many modellers in the UK turn to when they want to take their layout to the next level. If you're new to the hobby, you’ve probably come across Hornby track, which is great for starting out because it’s easy to set up with its clip-together sections. However, as you begin to expand and add more detail to your layout, you might find that Peco Streamline offers more flexibility and realism than Hornby’s more rigid track system.

One of the key differences with Peco Streamline is that it uses flexible track, which comes in long, bendable sections. Unlike Hornby’s fixed pieces that have set curves and straight lengths, Peco’s flex track allows you to create curves and straight sections exactly how you want them. This gives you much more freedom when designing your layout, especially if you’re trying to fit your track into a specific space or create more natural, flowing lines that look like real railways.

Peco Streamline also comes in different codes, which simply refers to the height of the rail. You’ll hear about Code 100 and Code 75, with Code 100 being slightly taller and more robust—great if you have older rolling stock with larger wheel flanges. Code 75, on the other hand, looks more realistic because the rails are closer in height to what you'd see on a real railway. If you're using newer locomotives and carriages or if you’re aiming for a more authentic look, you might prefer Code 75.

When it comes to points (or turnouts), Peco Streamline gives you more refined options compared to Hornby. You’ll notice that Peco’s points are smoother in operation and they come in versions like Electrofrog and Insulfrog, which manage how power is routed through the points. Electrofrog points are especially good if you plan to run trains at slow speeds or use DCC (Digital Command Control), as they provide better electrical continuity, reducing the chances of your train stalling.

Another great thing about Peco Streamline is its attention to detail. If you're interested in replicating a specific period or region of British railways, Peco offers track types like bullhead rail, which was common on UK mainlines during the steam era. This means you can make your layout more historically accurate, something that can really bring your model railway to life. And don’t worry, Peco Streamline is compatible with Hornby trains, so you can continue using your existing stock without any problems.

Admittedly, laying Peco Streamline track does take a bit more effort than using Hornby’s pre-formed pieces. Since the track is flexible, you’ll need to shape it carefully and secure it using track pins or adhesive. You might also need to cut the rails when fitting curves or creating junctions. While this might sound a bit daunting at first, the extra effort pays off, as you’ll have a track that fits your layout perfectly and looks far more realistic.

In short, if you’re looking to move beyond a basic setup and start building a more detailed, custom layout, Peco Streamline is well worth considering. It offers flexibility, a wide range of options and a more realistic appearance, all of which can really enhance your model railway. While it requires a bit more work than Hornby track, the end result will be a layout that runs smoothly and looks fantastic.