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Hornby Hobbies reveals its top 9 toys for car, train, and plane obsessives this Christmas 2026

From a Harry Potter train set to Scalextric racing cars, these Christmas gifts are made for magical family moments.

Published: October 22, 2026 at 10:30 AM

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Christmas is the perfect excuse to bring a little magic, nostalgia and family fun into the home, and this year's gift ideas from Hornby Hobbies have something for everyone, from little train enthusiasts to grown-ups who still love a classic racing car.

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Whether you're looking for a present to place under the tree, a family activity to enjoy on Christmas Day or a collectible for a film-loving friend, the 2026 range includes model railways, slot car racing sets and die-cast favourites inspired by some much-loved films and TV shows.

With prices starting at £21.99, there are options for a range of budgets, including festive train sets, a Harry Potter-themed railway and Scalextric sets designed to bring high-speed action into the living room.

Shop the full Hornby Hobbies range here

Best Christmas gifts for film and TV fans

1. Hornby Harry Potter Train Set, £79.99

Playtrains Hogwarts Express Train Set HERO

Hornby Hobbies

For a young Harry Potter fan, or an adult who still dreams of receiving their Hogwarts letter, this train set brings a little Wizarding World magic to Christmas.

Inspired by the famous train from the films, the set features realistic steam effects, working lights and sound effects. There's also a figure-of-eight track with a siding, King's Cross Platform 9¾ and Hogsmeade Station buildings, plus a hand controller for straightforward operation.

It's due to be available from mid-October, making it a potential option for families who want to get their festive shopping started early.

Shop the Hornby Harry Potter Train Set for £79.99 at Hornby Hobbies

2. Corgi Thunderbirds FAB Collection: Thunderbird 2 and Thunderbird 4, £39.99

Thunderbirds F.A.B. Collection - Thunderbird 2 and 4 1

Hornby Hobbies

Know someone who grew up watching Thunderbirds? This collectible set celebrates 60 years of the iconic series, with Thunderbird 2 and Thunderbird 4 presented in premium anniversary packaging.

Thunderbird 2 features an apple-green colour and matte paint finish, designed to offer a screen-accurate take on the much-loved craft. It's a nostalgic choice for long-time fans, as well as collectors looking for a special addition to their display shelf.

Shop the Corgi Thunderbirds FAB Collection: Thunderbird 2 and Thunderbird 4 for £37.99 at Very.com

3. Corgi James Bond 007 Aston Martin Valhalla, £39.99

Aston_Martin_Valhalla-Render-CMYK copy

Hornby Hobbies

For Bond fans and car enthusiasts, this collectible Aston Martin Valhalla takes its inspiration from the 2026 video game 007: First Light.

Based on Aston Martin's mid-engine plug-in hybrid supercar, the model combines a recognisable screen-inspired design with shelf-worthy appeal. It's a thoughtful option for anyone who loves the James Bond franchise or has a soft spot for iconic cars.

Shop the Corgi James Bond 007 Aston Martin Valhalla for £39.99 at Corgi

4. Corgi Shaun the Sheep Quad Bike, £21.99

Shaun the Sheep-Quadbike

Hornby Hobbies

For a more affordable gift, Shaun the Sheep fans can head to Mossy Bottom Farm with this die-cast quad bike model.

Featuring Shaun perched on a bright red quad bike with chunky rolling wheels, it's a fun little collectible for younger fans and nostalgic adults alike. The gift also arrives ahead of the planned September release of Shaun the Sheep: The Beast of Mossy Bottom.

Shop the Corgi Shaun the Sheep Quad Bike for £21.99 at Corgi

Christmas gifts under £50

5. Hornby Santa's Express Train Set, £39.99

Santa’s Express Train Set - Rechargeable Battery 1

Hornby Hobbies

Looking for a festive finishing touch for your Christmas tree? The Hornby Santa's Express Train Set is designed to circle the base of the tree, bringing a classic Christmas scene to life.

With festive lights, merry music and rechargeable batteries, the set is designed to be easy to assemble and enjoy year after year. It's a charming choice for families who want to create a Christmas tradition that little ones can look forward to every December.

Shop Hornby Santa's Express Train Set for £39.99 at Hornby

Best Christmas gifts for nostalgia lovers

6. Hornby GWR High Speed Train Set, £169.99

Hornby Railways B.R. High Speed Retro Train Set 1 (1)

Hornby Hobbies

For anyone who remembers the excitement of Britain's iconic High-Speed Trains, this Hornby set offers a nostalgic trip down memory lane, while giving a new generation the chance to discover model railways.

Inspired by the trains that received a new green fleet livery in 2026, 40 years after their initial introduction, the set includes an expandable track layout, a base mat and easy-to-use power and controls.

It's a more substantial Christmas present for railway enthusiasts, or a starting point for a hobby that can grow over time.

Shop the Hornby GWR High Speed Train Set for £129.99 at Hornby

7. Hornby Railways British Rail High-Speed Retro Train Set, £169.99

GWR High Speed Train Set 1

Another option for train lovers, this retro set recreates the look of the classic Hornby R.685 train set, combining familiar styling with modern detail.

The set includes two Class 43 diesel driving cars with illuminating headlights, a Mk3 passenger coach and a controller with a mains power supply. It's a lovely way to share childhood memories with children or grandchildren, while giving them something new to enjoy together.

Shop the Hornby Railways British Rail High-Speed Retro Train Set for £129.99 at Hornby

Christmas gifts for car enthusiasts

8. Scalextric Fast and Furious 25th Anniversary Race Set, £129.99

For families who prefer four wheels and a little friendly competition, this special-edition Scalextric set celebrates 25 years of Fast and Furious.

It features two recognisable cars from the films, the bright orange Toyota Supra Mk IV and blue Nissan Skyline GT-R (R34), both with underglow lighting. It's a gift designed to bring movie-inspired racing action to the living room.

Shop the Scalextric Fast and Furious 25th Anniversary Race Set for £129.99 at Scalextric

9. Scalextric Rally Championship Race Set, £129.99

Scalextric Rally Championship - Retro Race Set 1

Hornby Hobbies

Fans of classic rallying can revisit the 1990s with this Scalextric set, featuring Colin McRae's Subaru Impreza WRC and Didier Auriol's Toyota Celica GT-Four.

Working front and rear lights help create a night-rally atmosphere, while a flyover section and overhead gantry add to the track. The set also works with the Hot Laps app system, offering nine layout options, lap counting and timed challenges straight out of the box.

It's a strong contender for a family Christmas present, especially for households where a little competitive spirit is part of the festive fun.

Shop the Scalextric Rally Championship Race Set for £129.99 at Scalextric

Which Christmas gift should you choose?

For younger film fans, the Harry Potter train set or Shaun the Sheep quad bike could be a hit. The Santa's Express offers a festive option for families, while the retro Hornby sets are worth considering for railway enthusiasts and anyone who loves a nostalgic gift.

For car fans, the Corgi collectibles offer display-worthy presents, while the Scalextric sets are designed for hands-on racing fun. Whichever you choose, these gifts offer something to enjoy beyond Christmas morning, whether that's building a new hobby, sharing a favourite franchise or creating a new family tradition.

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Prices are recommended retail prices supplied by Hornby Hobbies. Availability may vary.

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