Greetings from Music City, USA! (Nashville, Tennessee)

Hi All,

My name is Lee Wallis. I am envious of the popularity and size of the model engineering community in the UK. Here in the States the community is far smaller, with only a couple shows of consequence each year, and appears to be shrinking as older folks age out.

My interests run the gamut including railroads, stationary steam engines, clocks, military models, pretty much anything old and mechanical. I really enjoy studying the history of technology focusing on the "industrial revolution."

I have visited the UK a few times on business, but only the London and Swindon areas. I would like to plan a tourist trip to coincide with one of the top tier ME shows, but have no idea which ones those would be. Any suggestions for shows or particular museums would be greatly appreciated!

Hi Lee,

Welcome to the forum. You should find plenty to interest you here, and lots of advice on any problems you may have regarding model engineering. Lots of clubs around the country hold open days to show of their efforts, but there are 3 main exhibitions each year. The northern one is in Doncaster early in the year, another is in the midlands later in the year, and one in London close to the new year. I am sure some members will add more info about them.

For places to visit re the industrial revolution, most are in the north and midlands and it would take a very long time to list them all. I hope you do come over again and enjoy our very rich heritage.

Hi Lee welcome to the forum. I was in Nashville a couple of years ago and as you say I didn't see any model shops etc.

David

Hi Lee,

Welcome to the forum.

Don't forget, we are much more crowded over here so getting together in clubs and travelling to shows is easier.

Neil

Thanks to all who replied; I've already homed in on the Midlands show as it appears to be in the middle of Shakespeare country- a big selling point for my wife who, unfortunately, doesn't share my enthusiasm for ME shows!

I am sure you can temper your visit to the MMEE with visits to some of the many local attractions that your wife will enjoy.

And Warwick Castle and Kenilworth Castles are nearby too. I'm sure you would both enjoy them, Warwick is a sort of 'castle theme park' (ownded by Merlin - Madame Tussauds, Alton Towers etc. etc.) while Kenilworth is low key but very nice to visit.

Neil