Ron Lines Limited: model railways in Shirley

Ron Lines Limited, also known as Ron Lines Model Railway Store, is a specialist model railway and hobby shop at 342 Shirley Road, Shirley, Southampton, SO15 3HJ. It sells new and second-hand railway modelling equipment in the shop, online and at exhibitions. The focus is mainly on N Gauge and OO Gauge, although other scales are available too. The range covers steam, diesel and electric locomotives, coaches, wagons, track, scenery, buildings, figures, wiring, LEDs, connectors, analogue controllers, DCC control, decoders and repair parts.

The shop stocks familiar names including Bachmann, Hornby, Graham Farish, Dapol, Peco, Gaugemaster, Oxford Rail, Heljan, Accurascale and Kadee. There is also American HO and N Gauge equipment, OO9 vehicles and less common scales such as TT:120, HOm and NG7. Prices vary widely: small Oxford Diecast vehicles start at around £4.95, while examples of larger or more advanced items include a Hornby Class 56 at £145, a DCC sound-fitted Graham Farish locomotive at £199.50, and Gaugemaster Infinity digital control systems priced at £425 and £495. Second-hand stock includes locomotives, coaches, wagons and scenery, with examples ranging from £3 for a small building to £119.50 for a DCC-fitted Princess Coronation locomotive. Used items are supplied in their boxes, although some may show signs of wear, and not everything is listed online.

The premises are described as small but well stocked, with a friendly, knowledgeable team. Customer feedback often mentions helpful advice, careful packaging, competitive prices and quick dispatch, with the business listed at 4.8 out of 5 from 201 reviews. Ron Lines also buys unwanted railway material, from individual items to complete collections, across Hampshire, Dorset and the Isle of Wight, and can arrange a home visit when requested. The shop’s published opening hours are inconsistent: its website gives Monday to Saturday, 11:00–16:00, while other listings show longer weekday hours. As today is Sunday, 20 September 2026, it is listed as closed today; it would be sensible to phone 023 8077 2681 before travelling. Online orders and eBay sales are also available, with international customers advised to contact the shop first about postage.