Wednesday March 4th 2026
The model railway going on display (photo by Martin Stewart)
Written by Midlothian View Reporter, Liam Eunson
A piece of Edinburgh’s industrial past will return to life next month when a detailed working model of Kinleith Paper Mill makes its public debut.
The Lothians Model Railway Exhibition takes place on Saturday 11 and Sunday 12 April 2026 at The Students’ Union, Heriot-Watt University, Riccarton — and this year’s headline attraction is the first exhibition appearance of Kinleith Paper Mill, a stunning P4 scale recreation of the former Balerno Branch landmark.
Built by Alistair Dickson, who grew up near the mill, the layout has been more than a decade in the making.
“I lived just downstream of the Paper Mill and after previously modelling Colinton station, Kinleith became the next challenge,” he said. “Research began around 11 years ago, construction started in 2020, and the layout is now ready for its exhibition debut.”
The model recreates much of the mill complex and a stretch of the Water of Leith. The real mill — whose chimney was demolished in 1970 — has long since disappeared, with housing now occupying the site.
Organised by the Pentland Model Railway Group, the exhibition will feature 17 working layouts covering a wide range of scales, locations and eras. Visitors will be able to see everything from tiny Swiss Z and N gauge railways to British and American O gauge, as well as EM and P4 fine-scale modelling. Highlights include an innovative 009 narrow-gauge layout built inside a portable plastic case designed to travel by train, American HO layouts, and a compact OO micro layout created by a talented young teenage modeller.
As well as detailed layouts for enthusiasts, the show offers plenty for families. A Thomas-themed railway will entertain younger visitors, while a hands-on shunting puzzle provides a fun interactive challenge for all ages. Children can also take part in a special show challenge, searching for hidden Mr Men and Little Miss characters around the layouts. Entry cards will be given out and those who find them all can return their completed card for a sweet treat.
Seven specialist traders will be attending, offering new and second-hand locomotives and rolling stock, scenic materials, 3D-printed models, accessories and hobby supplies, as well as related interests including Warhammer.
The organisers are also delighted to welcome members of Heriot-Watt’s own tram-train team, who will be promoting proposals to reactivate the Edinburgh South Suburban Railway for passenger services.
Visitors can also enjoy the excellent on-site café run by the Students’ Union team, serving hot and cold food, drinks and freshly prepared cakes.
The show runs from 10am–4.30pm both days. Admission is £6 for adults, with children aged 0–15 admitted free when accompanied by a paying adult. Free parking is available. Visitors can also travel by train to Curriehill station and connect to the campus via the number 32 bus (Saturday service).
Further information: www.lothianmodelrail.co.uk
The Lothians Model Railway Exhibition 2026 is on Saturday 11 & Sunday 12 April 2026 10am – 4.30pm at The Students’ Union, Heriot-Watt University Riccarton, Edinburgh EH14 4AS
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