Ranging from basic plastic models for young ones, to expensive radio controlled models, toy planes cover a huge spectrum of sizes and sophistication. At some time or other, every little boy (and probably some girls) have picked up a toy plane and pretended to fly it around the room or garden. Some may even go on to become real pilots and fulfill a childhood dream.
Probably the biggest category of toy planes is that of scale model kits that have to be assembled and painted. There are dozens of manufacturers in this toy plane market, with Airfix and Revell being the best known in the UK. The scales vary enormously, but 1/72 is the most common and popular, and as a hobby is practised by kids from 7 to 70.
The radio controlled versions of toy planes are great fun to build and fly, but one small mistake on the control lever can send the toy plane crashing to earth and requiring hours of re-building. There are lots of toy and model shops that specialise in selling toy planes of all sizes and prices, and customers should be spoilt for choice from the ones on offer.
Specialising in plastic model kits and accessories, Relish Models have a very comprehensive range of over 600 items.
Find "stuff that you don't need... but really really want" on the IWOOT website.
Specialising in the full range of Automoblox Cars.
Specialises in everything for Scalextric model motor racing.
A family run business selling ranges of toys and dressing-up clothes.