Edinburgh's Industrial Past Brought to Life in Detailed Model Railway Exhibition
A remarkable piece of Edinburgh's industrial heritage will be revived next month when an intricately detailed working model of Kinleith Paper Mill makes its first public appearance. The Lothians Model Railway Exhibition is scheduled for Saturday, April 11 and Sunday, April 12, 2026, at The Students' Union, Heriot-Watt University in Riccarton. This year's headline attraction is the stunning P4 scale recreation of the former Balerno Branch landmark, which has been over a decade in the making.
Decade-Long Passion Project Comes to Fruition
Built by Alistair Dickson, who grew up near the original mill, the layout represents a labor of love that began with research approximately eleven years ago. "I lived just downstream of the Paper Mill and after previously modelling Colinton station, Kinleith became the next challenge," Dickson explained. Construction commenced in 2020, and the model now faithfully recreates much of the mill complex along with a stretch of the Water of Leith. The real mill, whose chimney was demolished in 1970, has long since vanished, with housing developments now occupying the site.
Diverse Array of Model Railways on Display
Organized by the Pentland Model Railway Group, the exhibition will showcase seventeen working layouts covering a wide spectrum of scales, locations, and historical eras. Visitors can expect to see:
- Tiny Swiss Z and N gauge railways
- British and American O gauge layouts
- EM and P4 fine-scale modelling
- An innovative 009 narrow-gauge layout built inside a portable plastic case designed for train travel
- American HO layouts
- A compact OO micro layout created by a talented teenage modeller
Family-Friendly Activities and Interactive Elements
Beyond the detailed layouts for railway enthusiasts, the exhibition offers numerous attractions for families. A Thomas-themed railway will captivate younger visitors, while a hands-on shunting puzzle provides an engaging interactive challenge suitable for all ages. Children can participate in a special show challenge, searching for hidden Mr Men and Little Miss characters scattered throughout the layouts. Entry cards will be distributed, and those who locate all characters can return their completed card for a sweet treat.
Specialist Traders and Community Engagement
Seven specialist traders will be present at the event, offering:
- New and second-hand locomotives and rolling stock
- Scenic materials and 3D-printed models
- Accessories and hobby supplies
- Related interests including Warhammer
The organizers are particularly pleased to welcome members of Heriot-Watt University's tram-train team, who will be promoting proposals to reactivate the Edinburgh South Suburban Railway for passenger services. This adds an educational and community-focused dimension to the event.
Practical Information for Visitors
The exhibition runs from 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM on both days. Admission is priced at £6 for adults, with children aged 0-15 admitted free when accompanied by a paying adult. Free parking is available on-site. For those using public transport, visitors can travel by train to Curriehill station and connect to the campus via the number 32 bus, which operates on Saturday services. The on-site café, managed by the Students' Union team, will serve hot and cold food, beverages, and freshly prepared cakes throughout the event.
Event Details: The Lothians Model Railway Exhibition 2026 takes place on Saturday, April 11 and Sunday, April 12, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM at The Students' Union, Heriot-Watt University, Riccarton, Edinburgh EH14 4AS.
