The Model Centre Reviews 

5,508
•
TrustScore 5 out of 5

4.9

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Review summary

Created with AI, based on recent reviews

Looking at 1,250 reviews, reviewers overwhelmingly had a great experience with this company, consistently praising the exceptional overall quality and professional service. Consumers frequently mention that online orders arrive very quickly, and products are securely packaged in sturdy materials to protect delicate items during transit. People also deeply appreciate the wide selection of available models, very fair competitive prices, and the consistently helpful customer support team. However, some reviewers were not happy with occasional delivery damages, missing small parts discovered upon unpacking, and frustrating delays when dealing with returned repairs. These few customers noted that items arrived broken, were found already sold on display, or required extra effort to resolve problems.

What people talk about most

Delivery service

Customers had positive experiences with delivery service, frequently highlighting the exceptionally fast... See more

Product

Customers consistently note positive experiences with product, highlighting the great selection of models and... See more

Service

Reviewers highlight positive aspects of service, consistently praising the fast delivery, reliable... See more

Price

Users describe positive interactions with price, noting that products are offered at very competitive and... See more

Order

Consumers find order satisfaction due to the simple and user-friendly website, quick delivery times, and... See more

Reviews shaping this summary

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

The TMC had a special offer on for a pre-owned Hornby TT:120 LNER Blink Bonny locomotive, the price was irresistible, so I snapped it up through their website. It arrived very quickly and extremely we... See more

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Visited shop at Beck Hole - grandson who is just starting out with model trains found it fascinating. Everything you can think of with service second to none. The trip to Beck Hole was amazing too. Se... See more

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

TMC are always great with product descriptions, display of clearly marked 'in stock' items, range of products and helpfulness in clarifying questions/concerns. Postage to Australia is quick (around 9/... See more

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

This large and weighty kit was delivered by TMC very quickly in sturdy and secure packaging. I've only just got to look inside the box and was amazed at the engineering and finish of the metal parts.... See more


Company details

  1. #8 of 48 best companies in Model shop
  2. #25 of 180 best companies in Hobby shop
  3. #2 of 9 best companies in Scale model club

Written by the company

We’re a friendly, family run business nestled in the glorious North Yorkshire Moors, within walking distance of the North Yorkshire Moors Steam Railway. Our customers are modellers, collectors and enthusiasts who are fans of model railways, vehicles (military and civilian), and diecast models and figures. They are also keen kit builders and diorama creators. Our knowledgeable team includes railway modellers and dedicated railway enthusiasts, RC experts and plastic kit enthusiasts. We’re ready to provide you with a premium experience and first-class service. We’re essentially mail order, but we do have an onsite showroom and workshop for visitors to enjoy. We stock all major brands of model railway locos and rolling stock across all gauges at competitive discounted prices, usually around a 15% reduction on the recommended retail price. It’s not just locos - we supply everything you need to compliment your layout from scenery, figures, buildings and electrics to modelling tools, paints and effects. We also sell an extensive range of plastic kits, slot cars, diecast models and aviation models.


Contact info

4.9

Excellent

TrustScore 5 out of 5

6k reviews

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Asks customers to review

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Replied to 100% of negative reviews

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4.9

All reviews

(5,508)

1,239 reviews in the last 12 months

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Rated 5 out of 5 stars

TMC......on the right track to even greater things!

After an absence from model railways for around 45 uears, I found things had moved on so much, that from a teenager who "knew it all", I actually discovered the opposite. The Model Centre has been for me, the best experience of any company I have had dealings with, not only within the world of model railways, but in general terms of commerce. Their prices are fair and the after-sales and technical prowess is second to none. Tom and Christov are the main sales and technical team, and I would not hesitate to recommend them to anyone who needs help and advice. Between them, what they don't know, you could write on a postage stamp! I am so pleased to have come ipon the Company.

21 August 2026
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Always a great experience

Always a great experience. Very helpful being a customer outside the UK, sometimes I have certain requirements or requests and the staff at the TMC are always accommodating. On the one occasion I popped in in person while travelling through the UK the staff member was extremely helpful and knowledgeable.

28 August 2026
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Can't fault great service

Can't fault great service. My son wanted a weathered wagon for his birthday but unfortunately the one he liked had sold out. I got in touch with TMC to see when would get more stock, but said I could order the one he likes unweathered which was in stock. And they could weather it which they did had really happy son did a great job and was delivered really quick highly recommend.

17 August 2026
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

So far I have not visited the shop in…

So far I have not visited the shop in person so all my ‘visits’ have been virtual. The website is excellent ; easy to navigate, way to locate items…
Communication is always easy with helpful advice. Delivery is quick.
Excellent shopping experience - now back to check my basket!

27 August 2026
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Pocher 1:8 scale Porsche 917KH Martini

This large and weighty kit was delivered by TMC very quickly in sturdy and secure packaging.
I've only just got to look inside the box and was amazed at the engineering and finish of the metal parts. Having already had the pleasure of building the Pocher Lotus 72D, I look forward to starting this in the near future. It's pricey but you certainly get what you pay for.

3 September 2026
Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Profesional with real customer service

TMC are always great with product descriptions, display of clearly marked 'in stock' items, range of products and helpfulness in clarifying questions/concerns. Postage to Australia is quick (around 9/10 days) and is well packed. I have dealt with them for many years and will continue to do so.

26 August 2026

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