Chandwell: A tour of my N gauge model railway layout

Welcome to Chandwell! Chandwell is my N Gauge model railway layout set in a fictional West Yorkshire market town in 1993. It's been four years since I first introduced Chandwell on KZbin, so this is an up-to-date introduction to the layout now it has had four more years of effort put into it.
In this video I show how the layout fits into my home, how it is wired, how the fiddle yard works, and give you a tour of the buildings that make up Chandwell the town.
Whether you are new to Chandwell, or whether you have been watching for four years - welcome to Chandwell! "It's not as grim as you think it is".
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[@kinkisharyocoasters]

This belongs in a museum. No curator in their right mind would deny it

[@Chandwell]

That's very kind! Thank you.

[@andrewnorth4857]

Your self-assessment of your scratch-building is way too harsh. The buildings look amazing throughout. I love the graffiti and little details, like the missing "k" from "Market". It has been a pleasure to see your layout, thank you.

[@Chandwell]

Thank you - that is really kind.

[@ianjeffery4773]

It's so... small. Having watched you build so many buildings I had imagined an enormous layout. It all looks amazing.

[@Chandwell]

Big thanks!

[@tinplategeektoo]

"not as grim as you think it is" - brilliant

[@Chandwell]

That's the best the Visit Chandwell Tourist Board could come up with!

[@TacticalTeapot]

The layout sitting in that cabinetry looks utterly fantastic!

[@Chandwell]

Thank you. Yeah, I thought that since I'd have to look at it constantly while I work, I really needed something that looked neat, so that was my first priority when I decided to make a layout.

[@anthropod888]

I found your channel 21 March. 3 weeks later and I've watched every video from the start to now. These are just wonderful and inspiring for my own n gauge plans. Thank you for showing all of your methods. Inkscape is so useful.

[@Chandwell]

Wow, thank you! I can't imagine what it must be like to watch all the videos in one big binge. Now you've seen them all, what is your favourite part of Chandwell?

[@anthropod888]

@@ChandwellDefinitely how you've made it seem like a place that is truly alive. The graffiti, the adverts for other shops that you then make etc. Obviously the fake history makes for great KZbin entertainment too but all those little visible bits could be seen in real life too and I love that !

[@Chandwell]

Thank you!

[@chrisreed3929]

A masterpiece of fine detail and even more impressive that you do this whilst being economical.

[@Chandwell]

Thank you!

[@RokebyBay]

That’s really rather lovely. It’s wonderful to see so many local landmarks modelled. I particularly liked the new Beehive and Shipley clock.

[@Chandwell]

Thank you, and welcome to Chandwell! More local building a to come. I’ve added part of Otley Road in Shipley, and am currently adding bits of Brook Street in Ilkley, but with parts of Otley mixed in too.

[@thegrowler-blackwoodngauge]

4yrs of outstanding modelling Michael. I looked back and I've followed since February 2020 - that's when I found your channel. You should be rightly proud of what you're building - one of the best N Gauge layouts in the UK. Cheers Euan

[@Chandwell]

Wow, thank you, Euan. You have been an almost constant source of encouragement and a friendly word or two. I am always inspired by your own modelling too. Thank you for watching all this time. -Michael

[@grahamwalker2312]

Michael, it's a thing of beauty. Something I really enjoy is how the story of Chandwell and it's buildings are still evolving. 👍Ps Really love the meticulous documentation of your electrical / track connections. Also, look forward to Brittany's tour and entertainment guide 👍

[@Chandwell]

Glad you enjoy it!

[@manofthehour6856]

I only discovered Chandwell last week, and its absolutely delightful. I'll be making a reservation at the Royal Scot for a week. I love the gritty realism and historic buildings, and it must be nice to ponder when you want to break from your work....just being an observer of life, and enjoy it. Thank you Michael. It's not only a pleasure to enjoy the finished product (if anything like this is ever finished), but also the brilliant tutorials that demonstrate construction techniques with common products rather than expensive and specialized hobby items. A heartfelt thanks for your videos! Best from the USA....

[@Chandwell]

Thank you so much, and welcome to Chandwell. You've made the right choice to stay in the Royal Scot. It's a bit more expensive than the Earl Chandfield (especially if you stay in Grants Tower), but well worth it. The Earl Chandfield has quite "tired" carpets and smells a bit damp.

[@FreedomSquareGardenRailway]

BRAVO 👏 ❤ Absolutely Amaze-Balls!!!!

[@Chandwell]

Thank you!

[@TheHongKongHermit]

The best thing you ever did was changing to a weekly update schedule. These Friday visits are a highlight of my week.

[@Chandwell]

Thank you so much! I sometimes worry I will run out of things to say.

[@colint1855]

Another brilliant video, have been making recommendations to other to view your channel to see the quality and ideas. Keep the videos coming.

[@Chandwell]

Much appreciated!

[@CGngauge]

Great to see. I love the design into the cabinets. I guess you're not planning on moving anytime soon!! :) Craig.

[@Chandwell]

Thank you. Yes, I shudder to think what I'd do if we ever decide to move house!

[@CGngauge]

@@Chandwell Yeah.. I designed mine soo that I could move it.. (Good job as it move from Oz to US...) But right now, even though I'm still working on this layout, I'm planning another one in my head.. Again it will be able to move just because you never know.. BUT.. I do like what you have done with yours. You have actually inspired me to design my own world... Crosby Garrett is a real location, so the next one.. will be unique. Craig.

[@michaelchartres]

Great layout with wonderful detail. I really enjoyed seeing it all. Regards Michael

[@Chandwell]

Thank you Michael.

[@moehoward01]

Just awesome scenery. Doesn't bear close inspection? PAH! PAH, I say! It's got the FEEL...

[@Chandwell]

Thank you!

[@kinkisharyocoasters]

You're a fine artist. Sheldon Cooper would be obsessed with you. I dont think i'll ever do anything this intensive, i'm too lazy

[@Chandwell]

:) That is funny! Thank you.

[@jablot5054]

Who's Sheldon Cooper?

[@Chandwell]

A character in The Big Bang Theory and Young Sheldon.

[@AlvaroALorite]

You sir are an artist!

[@Chandwell]

Thank you!

[@johnschutt9187]

Thank you. Just thank you. You do excellent work. Thanks for taking us along and teaching us.

[@Chandwell]

My pleasure!

[@SC68]

Hi Michael, enjoyed the video, great tour of your fantastic layout! Cheers Gary

[@Chandwell]

Thank you! I really enjoyed making this video.

[@benskiproductions]

I really enjoyed wacthing this. Definitely a nice n gauge layout

[@Chandwell]

Thank you!

[@rwissbaum9849]

Michael, as the builder of a small layout myself (less than 5 m2) I have made a careful study of what it takes to make a small layout look larger. One important element is detail: small details, which are not necessarily easily seen, draw the viewer in and invite even closer examination. This leads the viewer to experience the layout from a closer distance, making the overall layout seem much larger. Chandwell is a classic example of this: your attention to detail is phenomenal, and you have created - and continue to create - your own little world where a visitor can get lost for hours on end. Thank you so much.

[@Chandwell]

Thank you so much for your kind words. I think you’re right but I’ve never really considered it before. I think something else that works well is that all my roads cross the layout at an angle other than 90 degrees. And the my go up hill. With the buildings in place, this means that there are so many different angles to see things from and you have to move around a lot to get a clear view of any given thing. To me, that makes the town seem quite real too.

[@gagatube]

The layout was good on its own - particularly in that bespoke cabinet setting - but the buildings, bridges and other items are wonderful. The results you get from cardboard, glue and paint are just astounding! 💯

[@Chandwell]

Thank you! I also use printed textures rather than just paint, and I think they help the overall scene very much.

[@fathernick9910]

Splendid. Trackwork very well laid and ballasted. Buildings a real triumph

[@Chandwell]

Many thanks!

[@gwins12345]

Michael, You've done an outstanding on n Chandwell. The attention to detail is amazing.

[@Chandwell]

Thank you very much!

[@johnboughton7451]

Been watching & enjoying your layout since you first started as I was going to copy it in OO

[@Chandwell]

Thank you for joining me on my Chandwell journey!

[@stukidson1207]

I remember the wiring videos . . . Can't quite get my swede round just how long I've been watching the channel . . . . Loved every minute

[@Chandwell]

Thank you for joining me for the ride!

[@barryturner2916]

Many thanks for this tour Michael always a great delight to watch and see your layout grow, take care regards Barry.

[@Chandwell]

You are very welcome

[@djrobi61]

Hey that is a really cool synopsis of Chandwell, enjoyed it immensely! Don

[@Chandwell]

Thanks Don! I thought it was about time to do an intro for new viewers as much as old ones. Making this video took my mind off the Town Hall’s roof for a bit too.

[@PiddleInTheMarshbyMarkIreland]

Hi Michael, I knew the size of the layout from a previous video but hadn't realised it was in your office. How do you ever do any work ? I can loose a day so easily in my train room. Usually by Emma asking if she is a train widow ! As for DC and no point motors, that is just not on. I love the wiring and having gone from switches to DCC operation on most of the layout, I can't wait to be able to do the rest as I hate the hand of god. Everyone to their own though, we are all different. With the HST would a curved cassette fit in your fiddle yard ? If not I suggest a brick hammer and chisel and take a few bricks out ! Mark

[@Chandwell]

I could always knock through into next door's garage. They won't mind, will they? A 1.2metre long curved cassette may be a bit of a chore to get out, but it is a good idea and I'll have to give it a think. Funny how that never occurred to me!

[@p7s7cdfk]

Brilliant modeling and an inspiration to us all! Keep up the wonderful work and updates.

[@Chandwell]

Thanks, will do!

[@1dianep]

Wow I love your buildings. I’ll have to go back and check out your previous videos now.

[@Chandwell]

Thank you! This video may be of interest to you. It explains a bit more about the overall look I am trying to achieve. 2022 in review and a look at what's coming in 2023 in Chandwell kzbin.info/www/bejne/fnbSYXqvbpWkbKM

[@JK-zx3go]

Lovely bit of modelling. Great work.

[@Chandwell]

Thank you!

[@legotrainchris]

Wonderful! The things you say are not perfect are still far better than I could do!

[@Chandwell]

Thank you, that’s very kind!

[@OOElectronics]

I like your cost effective approach. The results are really excellent!

[@Chandwell]

Glad you like them! Thank you.

[@JacksTracks-jw5mv]

Everything about this layout looks stunning! Fantastic job!

[@Chandwell]

Thank you so much!

[@robturner3117]

Thumbs up, love your work

[@Chandwell]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@timothyduncan3457]

Hi Michael, Nice to see the layouts background and progress, to date. It also looks like your model making skills have moved on in leaps and bounds! Well done. Look forward to the next update/progress video.

[@Chandwell]

When I look at my earliest work, I can definitely see places where I have improved! Roll on the next four years! :)

[@kite7214]

Fantastic modelling. Well done.

[@Chandwell]

Thank you!

[@prodigalretrod]

The buildings look so good!

[@Chandwell]

Thank you!

[@trainmanbob]

The whole concept, the construction, the promotion of what can be achieved in N Gauge makes this, Michael, one of the best layouts on KZbin. The shorter length of the videos coupled with what is within them is excellent. How often have we seen a video showing the construction of a grass embankment which runs for nearly an hour!!! I was amazed at the size of the layout, thinking it would be a lot larger, but then this is however what can be created when you are an expert in your field, and why N is so good. Thanks for the tour Michael, really enjoyable. Cheers, Bob

[@Chandwell]

Thank you Bob! The layout seems bigger because there are so many different vantage points to film from. I think because every road/river crosses the tracks and the layout at acute angles, and because none of the ground is flat, there's never really a clear line of sight from the front to the backscene, or from one side to the other. This makes it feel more like a town than a model.

[@AemJaY]

wow what a great layout and your work of detail is just stunning!

[@Chandwell]

Thank you

[@Collateralcoffee]

Dude, to be honest, I like small details, but this proves again that the overall atmosphere is a huge thing. This is beautiful. I like the weathered trains. I like the perfectly captured rundown scenery. And to be honest the details that do not stand closer inspection: They are not an eyesore like other things in other layouts often are. Beautifully done, sir. Thanks for sharing!

[@Chandwell]

Thank you very much!

[@rikkistarrett307]

Watching that HST coast over the viaduct is a stunning scene. Amazing layout.

[@Chandwell]

Thank you!!

[@FredWilbury]

What dedication 😮 great layout and build .

[@Chandwell]

Thank you so much!

[@TONYNORTHEASTERN]

Its an amazing layout Michael. the attention to the detailing of your buildings is very realistic. what a creation my friend. and its all done in N gauge. pure Magic. best wishes Tony

[@Chandwell]

Thank you Tony. It’s an honour to have you comment here. Your layout is an endless inspiration to me.

[@neilstephen6761]

Enjoyed seeing your layout.

[@Chandwell]

Cool. Thank you.

[@richardaldred2086]

What a wonderful little gem. Charmingly narrated as well. 👌

[@Chandwell]

Thank you! Did you find this video from SmallPrint?

[@richardaldred2086]

Yes, the link from Small Print at Menston.

[@ZAKKANWAKKAR]

Chandwell. Where everything is planned well, Where you never need to oversell, It meets our needs. Chandwell. Planning worthy of a Nobel, Where you can always say a farewell, To posh buggers from Leeds.

[@Chandwell]

Oh I really did like this!

[@brucejohnston8510]

Looks fantastic layout cheers from Bruce.blenheim south island new Zealand

[@Chandwell]

Thank you! That’s a long way from Yorkshire! 😂

[@dinmorejunctionmodelrailway]

Michael, your layout continues to grow and inspire the rest of us.

[@Chandwell]

It continues to grow! Whatever will I do when it's fully grown!?

[@joachimb5721]

Yes! This is fan-tas-tic! This is the kind of layout I always imagine doing. I hardly ever see that style anywhere: super-realistic, gritty urban city scenery with bridges and rivers and beautiful old city houses next to worn-down 70s monstrosities, self-built houses and bridges and roads... I love it!

[@Chandwell]

Thank you so much, and welcome to Chandwell! :)

[@Racing_Fox413]

I’m loving Lassbrookes Really nice setup I’m jealous. It’s amazing how much you can fit with N over OO.

[@Chandwell]

It really is!

[@greggjohnson621]

Such great storytelling❤ This is the first video I’ve seen of Chandwell. How delightfully charming. I’ll be watching more asap.

[@Chandwell]

Thank you and welcome to Chandwell. Most of my videos are about making buildings but there are many which are almost 100% story. Look out for the Visit Chandwell Tourist Board films or the history programme about the Royal Scot hotel. My most recent one with a bit of story is this one. A dreary urban scene - finishing an atmospheric scratch-built model street scene kzbin.info/www/bejne/imSWpqhuqZh-atE

[@hirstyboy97]

Absolutely taken aback by your design , it looks amazing ,you made great use of the space 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼

[@Chandwell]

Thank you!

[@OxleyCentral]

love this layout and your buildings are just brilliant - such great inspiration

[@Chandwell]

Thank you!

[@Fred-kz7xh]

An amazing place, Just setting out on building an N gauge layout and this has certainly inspired me with ideas.

[@Chandwell]

Great stuff - have fun!

[@glenshielrailway5696]

The downward shot of the 31 crossing the station throat over the viaduct was amazing. That pointwork is a thing of beauty! One day you just have to do a time lapse of that area from that angle. Thumbs up well earned! Mike.

[@Chandwell]

Thank you. I loved that shot too.

[@olivier2553]

I am sneaky, I'll go and give a like to that 1st video of yours!

[@Chandwell]

Nooooooooooooo! 😂

[@rockyhudson3346]

Fantastic layout. Well done !

[@Chandwell]

Thank you!

[@garylong7599]

Michael interesting update video good to see the setting also watched first video, change so. Unchanged in four years. I also use the plastic pipe covers from Wikes for storing trains being similar in profile to your conduit but for 00 gauge are larger

[@Chandwell]

Thank you!

[@goffikgaming8636]

I have only just come across your channel and as someone who lives very close to Bradford and Shipley...and Otley (I live in Keighley), looking at the buildings I didn't need the real life pictures or where they are, I was saying them as you were. The buildings are stunning. The Shipley Market tower looks like you just shrunk the original. This layout is inspiring. Once my family grows up, I have already informed my wife I was to build a layout and I may be taking ideas from this. Amazing job mate. Now, I have some more of your videos to watch :)

[@Chandwell]

Thank you so much! If you enjoyed recognising the buildings, you may enjoy this silly video… kzbin.info/www/bejne/moe6aYyKppVppbM Enjoy your layout once you have the space. Making buildings is my most favourite thing.

[@KitplaneEnthusiast]

Absolutely amazing!

[@Chandwell]

Thank you!

[@jefwisse1957]

The buildings on your layout are the nicest I've seen. The look so realistic. It's hard to believe that the scale is 1:160. I'm gonna watch more of this channel. Greetings from the Netherlands.

[@Chandwell]

Thank you very much. I have really enjoyed making the buildings.

[@DrMoe.Lester]

Glad I just found your channel today! I was thinking about a gritty layout (previously having a model railway as a teenager). The graffiti and grey tones you've made is a perfect execution.

[@Chandwell]

Welcome to Chandwell! Thank you!

[@Sheza58]

Has this won some kind of award? It's absolutely fantastic!

[@Chandwell]

No, it's won no award other than "Best model railway in the whole world ever" from my 7-yr old son!

[@medwaymodelrailway7129]

Love watching your video Michael and liked thanks for sharing DD.

[@Chandwell]

Glad you enjoyed it! Thank you for watching!

[@medwaymodelrailway7129]

@@Chandwell Your welcome.

[@robertstorey7476]

The missing K in Chandwell Market was a highpoint for me. I was loving the grimness of it all but this just pushed it up to the next level. Well done!

[@Chandwell]

Hahah! Than- you!

[@bobwatson2531]

I think i must have been following this build from its inseption,fantastic work,looking forward to the delightful miss Scroggins update.

[@Chandwell]

Many thanks!

[@pauldelcour]

I keep thinking I'm looking at an H0 layout. Absolute marvel the details on the buildings and even the trains look so good. N has come a long way. Your modeling skills are outstanding and good for you for using anything you can get hold of instead of just buying of the shelf.

[@Chandwell]

Thank you!

[@phoenixjim0527]

How wonderful! Great work.

[@Chandwell]

Thank you!

[@grahammummery5732]

Brilliant video! Brilliant layout!

[@Chandwell]

Thank you!

[@stecosgrove3779]

Best "layout in a living space" I've seen. Looks like it grew there, well done. Love the details and the buildings' back stories. Superb!

[@Chandwell]

Thank you very much!

[@Mumbles274]

Love your layout and your vids and this is a great one. Really shows your layout to its best, well done

[@Chandwell]

Thank you very much!

[@quarryjunction-1969]

Great video. I started an N guage layout few years back, then sadley moved and never continued. However Watching this video aswell as a few others I have come up with a new layout idea and thank you for the kick I needed. New build to start June 2024.

[@Chandwell]

Great to hear! Good luck!

[@richtiff]

There's so much to love about this, I think all of the back-stories and the very detailed perspectives are the best bit! Also amazing how you've fit so much into such a small space without it feeling cramped, cracking effort! 😊

[@Chandwell]

Thank you so much!

[@matthewsmith1162]

Really enjoyed looking at your layout. Great track set-up and good to see 31s and 43s side by side as in the 1990s.

[@Chandwell]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@thibaultfleuter941]

I just discovered your layout with this video. The tracks plan is really clever, you have such good possibilities of maneuvering or just let the trains go, and all that in a small surface. The buildings look amazing too! Honestly, well done! Has a great atmosphere!

[@Chandwell]

Thank you very much! Welcome to Chandwell!

[@railway187]

Impressive layout 👍

[@Chandwell]

Many thanks!

[@davidrauger]

The layout is absolutely gorgeous!

[@Chandwell]

Thank you!

[@thomasinlondon2849]

I’m just about to start building card buildings for a new layout. It has been 35 years since I built a layout with card buildings, with the difference being that I planned to use a scanner, a printer, and have an ideal spec and large supply of card since my building days in my childhood. Your card buildings have blown me away and really inspired me. Thanks for the tip on that free software, it looks perfect for my plan. I love your layout!

[@Chandwell]

Thank you, and good luck with your modelling!

[@zenersmytok3619]

Your railway and all of the buildings are fantastic. I'm retired, and I only ever had the most basic of a model railway when I was a child, but seeing your complete set up makes me so happy.

[@Chandwell]

That is so kind of you to say - thank you so much.

[@mark_fox_music]

Incredible work. Wow!

[@Chandwell]

Thank you!

[@Yaco1804]

A great railway. I particularly love the reference to Shipley town market and clock tower. Well done. I’m about to switch to N gauge yours is quite inspiring.

[@Chandwell]

Thank you so much!

[@patrickpeake3935]

This looks superb, Michael. A beautifully balanced model that really reflects the real towns that you have drawn from. I like, too, that you have presented it so well in your office. You can be justly proud of your workmanship.

[@Chandwell]

Thank you very much indeed!

[@peteratkins7383]

very nice i like the details and its built into the cabinet, touches like the tree in the river are a nice addition

[@Chandwell]

Thank you very much!

[@richardluckman]

Superb.. and motivational for anyone who wants to get into the hobby.

[@Chandwell]

Thank you!

[@jonathanpittock1447]

I absolutely love how you've captured the essence of West Yorkshire. I have no doubt what the market tower is based on, having grown up in the area, and travelled to Leeds and Bradford on the train in my twenties. Great job!!

[@Chandwell]

Many thanks!

[@colorin81colorado]

My sister in law knows I have many hobbies and have a deep appreciation for other people's art and work. I have enjoyed this video and look forward to the others in your library! Cheers from Brisbane Australia!

[@Chandwell]

Thanks for sharing!

[@ausfoodgarden]

A really nice tour and history of your layout. The real-world translation of "I managed quite well" is of course, absolutely brilliantly. I can't believe I never thought of using cable trunking as a base for train cassettes. I worked with the stuff for years. Good on you! But now I'm off to the hardware shop :)

[@Chandwell]

Thank you!

[@Beatlefan67]

Absolutely excellent. The buildings are exceptional. Well done indeed.

[@Chandwell]

Many thanks!

[@JasonHazell-v3e]

WOW that's is an amazing layout you have given me inspiration on how to do my layout by making my on buildings from scratch thank you 😊😊

[@Chandwell]

I love making buildings, it's my favourite part of the hobby.

[@ullscarf]

I know that part of the world very well and he's nailed it to perfection.

[@Chandwell]

Thank you!

[@luisaraujo4708]

Your detail work is quite amazing!

[@Chandwell]

Thank you so much 😀

[@DannySapko]

Nice! That's gotta be Shipley Clock Tower

[@Chandwell]

It certainly is!!!

[@highdownmartin]

Well that was worth clicking on. Never come across Chandwell before , a n excellent depiction of of a run down station and it’s environs. Top work, really good.

[@Chandwell]

Thank you so much, and welcome to Chandwell!

[@heleti0000]

Amazing detail in your layout - you should be suitably proud of your work 😁👍🇦🇺

[@Chandwell]

Thank you very much!

[@Heck9001]

Great video this Michael delivered with no small amount of polish and a touch of swagger deserved of four amazing years of modelling. Highly inspiring and occasionally, ever so slightly intimidating! Here’s to the next four years. Now where’s that Britney...👍

[@Chandwell]

Glad you enjoyed it! I don't ever mean to be intimidating! But I know what you mean when you see something that inspires you. I feel the same when I look at things like Patapsco Falls Division, N Scale Dystopia, Marklinofsweden, and such like.

[@PeckhamHall]

The buildings look great, the colours of them are superb. You have a good eye for realism. It makes me feel it would be worth having and go for myself someday on making a layout of my own.

[@Chandwell]

I am pleased that the colours have worked out. It's tricky getting the pallette right over a long period of time, but I think it works. Go for it - start small and try a few things out. Good luck!