Reviews (11)

Fun toy!
This is a fun toy... My daughter is a Thomas fan & she loves this. She plays with it for hours at a time. It could be a little more stable, but these kind of toys never are!

Great toy for Thomas Lovers
I bought this toy at another store $10 cheaper than remarked online here. Its great! My son is 21 months old and he absolutely loves it.Being an active 21 month old the toy can withstand his activity level! I would have prefered nylon myself, but the material used is not really that flimsy at all. I've three very large dogs that climb in and out of it too! So that should account for something also. Great toy, colorful, large and fun for all!

Not worth it
My 4-year-old is so disappointed. Thomas is ripping after only a few uses. I was disappointed when we opened the package and saw that it was made from the thin papery material used in disposable medical booties and gowns.

While I'm sure I can return it, that won't fix my son's disappointment. This toy was not worth it. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Outdoor Play    2. Playtents    3. Camping   

Reviews (16)

Worth every penny!
Because this was such an expensive item I did my homework before purchasing the table. I looked at some cheaper tables to begin with but found that they couldn't come close to the Thomas table by Learning Curve. This table is made of solid wood and took me about 5 minutes to put together. I was able to get the playmat for free with the table through a promotion Toys R Us was having at the time of purchase. Another thing that sold me on the Thomas table was that this is the same table they have at Barrnes and Noble and you can imagine how many children play on that day after day. We have the table set up in our son's playroom since it is such a large piece. Unlike many other toys we have purchased in the past, this is one that we will save for years to come. They are expensive, but they are also made well and come with a lifetime guarantee. If you have a problem with one of their products you simply send it to them with a letter and within about 1-2 business weeks they will send you a brand new item. If you are looking to buy a train table I would highly recommend this one. Though it is more expensive, it is worth it in the long run. Why spend $80-$100 on a table that is only going to last a year or so when you can spend a little more and save it forever? One other hint...Michael's Arts and Crafts and A.C. Moore Craft Stores also carry a decent amount of the wooden Thomas toys. Look in your local paper for their 40% off coupons. They apply to Thomas and Friends which makes it a lot more affordable. :)

$$$ TRAIN TABLE PRICE IS EXTREMELY TOO HIGH****
Hello, my son is 3 and just was newly introduced to Thomas, he loves it, there are so many trains to collect from 2004 and past years. This table is so over priced, we decided also to build one $60 for materials (all oak) and a few hours and its done, personally its beautiful and stained it looks like an expensive piece, (thanks to my brother-in-law builder and my husband), if you are not as lucky to have someone in your family build it for you here is a suggestion..get in touch with your local school, or the woodshop teacher and see if you can get one of the students to build it as a project (they get graded for this) and your helping that student learn, or get plans and build it yourself, dont have the saws? your local home store may cut the wood for you. Its just a suggestion because thomas stuff is great but I would rather spend my money on the trains (which is the REAL enjoyment. Hope this helps

Time For Thomas
The Thomas train sets are great modern versions of the classic indestructible wooden train sets.Simple enough to avoid the toddler age frustrations of getting the cars to run on the track yet complex enough to engage a wide range of ages (up to and including Grandpas).All the stories help with the imagination part....the books & videos provide an endless source of adventures that can be acted out, although most kids are perfectly capable of inventing their own episodes.

Here is my advice, if you are trying to work your way through the maze of start-up options:

First of all, you can spend a fortune on a huge set....even if you can afford it, I would start with something small and give the child the joy of receiving a chain of small but intriguing presents over a long period of time.It fosters the joy of giving/receiving and helps teach them to come back again and again to the same toy...watching it grow, asking for specific items from the stories they hear, etc.Several reviewers suggest painting an old coffee table and this is a great idea.

I suggest the Figure 8 set (the most popular one) or if you want to spend a little bit more, the Conductors Figure 8 set.Both are complex enough to be interesting, but simple enough to give lots of room for growth.Almost immediately I would add a new present of one of the inexpensive engines (you can ask the child which story they like best and get that engine for them....or buy the engine to go with the video or book in the same gift)....these would be Percy The Small Engine, Bill The Yellow Engine, Treavor, (or a bit more $ for:) The Lady Engine, James The Red Engine, Gordon The Express Engine (he's one of the best stories, I think), or Henry The Green Engine.

Now for the good stuff!Give it a month or so, and then reward the child with something really cool like the Barrel Loader or Rusty the Construction 3 Car Set.

I honestly can't see the point in the huge multi hundred dollar system sets.If you want to impress the neighbors or something, go for it, but I'm telling you.....most kids will enjoy a large number of small thoughtful gifts, not a "keep-up-with-the-Jones" effort on your part.

Good behavior can be rewarded with a pick-your-own trip to the store (there are sometimes when a real time shopping trip can't be beat)

By the way, the Thomas stories are based on real restored engines that run in England on the Mid-Hants Railway Watercress line near Winchester (you can read about them an even plan a trip to ride on the real Thomas trains by checking outwatercressline.co.uk).They are a day trip from the London rail stations, although I recommend using a B&B in the Winchester area and staying overnight if you decide to go.Winchester was the center of the old Saxon kingdom of Wessex of King Alfred as well as a major early medieval site (the Cathedral has the tombs of many of the Saxon Kings as well as Jayne Austen and Izaac Walton and it was where Richard the Lionhearted was crowned.)

... Read more

Subjects:  1. Furniture    2. Wood    3. Train Set Accessories    4. Preschool    5. Vehicles    6. Trains    7. Train Accessories   

Reviews (5)

Great Puzzle for Little Ones
My 28 month old son got this puzzle for Christmas and loves it.He put it together the first time out of the box himself. It is the first thing he does every morning and then several times a day.My almost 5 year old likes it too. It is not as sturdy as the Melissa & Doug floor puzzles, but it still really sturdy.

Nice picture making for an easier puzzle
My 2 year old daughter has this puzzle and thinks its wonderful.

Unlike many puzzles, with just one character on it, the picture is brilliant having lots of different trains, etc on it.It is easy to fit togehter, with parts of a different character or scene on every piece.She can easily put Thomas, the sheds, Harold, etc together thus eventually making the whole puzzle.

This is by far her favourite puzzle.For one, it's Thomas!And for 2, it's well-made and 'easy' to work out how to put together.

Most Beloved Toy
My son who just turned 4 years old in December received this for Christmas.I'm amazed at the beauty and durability of the pieces.He put it together about three times (with help) the first time we opened it!I never seen him so excited about a toy and to my greater surprise--a puzzle!Each time he placed a new piece in (sometimes with my assistance and sometimes not), he'd ask me to turn around and then ask me to look.When I looked I praised him for his accomplishment and he squealed with excitement.He literally jumped up and down almost after each piece was placed!He told me this was his favorite gift for Christmas and believe me he had quite a few more that were more expensive.I'll be buying more Thomas puzzles from this company in the near future as I'm very impressed. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Preschool    2. Puzzles    3. Floor Puzzles    4. Jigsaw Puzzles    5. Easy Puzzles    6. Toddler    7. Activity   

Editorial Review

After longs days of travel and adventure, Thomas the Tank Engine and friends need a place to rest. The Roundhouse is built in exactly the same way as it was when part of the British Railway, solidly constructed in wood and decorated with brick decals. Five trains fit inside the wooden train shelter, and the green plastic doors open and close. It connects to any of the Clickity-Clack Tracks from the Thomas Wooden Railway System with a five-way switch track. There are almost as many pieces to this line of train sets (sold separately) as there are books in the Thomas the Tank Engine series--all contained in carrying cases. All of these toys allow children to engage in imaginative, thoughtful play. --Lynne Sampson ... Read more

Reviews (13)

Expensive...Yes...and worth every penny!
I purchased this roundhouse for my 3 year old daughter.She loves anything Thomas!She began her Thomas collection with the figure 8 set and a couple of trains.As I realized how much she loved Thomas, I began to purchase more pieces to add to her collection.Rather than spend a lot of money upfront on a big set, I recommend starting small on a figure 8 set.As your child's interest in Thomas grows or solidifies, add items such as the table, roundhouse, other buildings, etc.I will caution that when you buy items "a la carte", it is very difficult to have everything fit nicely on the table.The roundhouse is her favorite building and all of her friends who come over to play, love it as well.The roundhouse does come with a 5 switch as pictured on the box, the red turntable is a separate item.The turntable is also a great addition to the roundhouse, but not a necessity.The roundhouse will not disappoint for any Thomas enthusiast!!!

Time For Thomas
The Thomas train sets are great modern versions of the classic indestructible wooden train sets.Simple enough to avoid the toddler age frustrations of getting the cars to run on the track yet complex enough to engage a wide range of ages (up to and including Grandpas).All the stories help with the imagination part....the books & videos provide an endless source of adventures that can be acted out, although most kids are perfectly capable of inventing their own episodes.

Here is my advice, if you are trying to work your way through the maze of start-up options:

First of all, you can spend a fortune on a huge set....even if you can afford it, I would start with something small and give the child the joy of receiving a chain of small but intriguing presents over a long period of time.It fosters the joy of giving/receiving and helps teach them to come back again and again to the same toy...watching it grow, asking for specific items from the stories they hear, etc.Several reviewers suggest painting an old coffee table and this is a great idea.

I suggest the Figure 8 set (the most popular one) or if you want to spend a little bit more, the Conductors Figure 8 set.Both are complex enough to be interesting, but simple enough to give lots of room for growth.Almost immediately I would add a new present of one of the inexpensive engines (you can ask the child which story they like best and get that engine for them....or buy the engine to go with the video or book in the same gift)....these would be Percy The Small Engine, Bill The Yellow Engine, Treavor, (or a bit more $ for:) The Lady Engine, James The Red Engine, Gordon The Express Engine (he's one of the best stories, I think), or Henry The Green Engine.

Now for the good stuff!Give it a month or so, and then reward the child with something really cool like the Barrel Loader or Rusty the Construction 3 Car Set.

I honestly can't see the point in the huge multi hundred dollar system sets.If you want to impress the neighbors or something, go for it, but I'm telling you.....most kids will enjoy a large number of small thoughtful gifts, not a "keep-up-with-the-Jones" effort on your part.

Good behavior can be rewarded with a pick-your-own trip to the store (there are sometimes when a real time shopping trip can't be beat)

By the way, the Thomas stories are based on real restored engines that run in England on the Mid-Hants Railway Watercress line near Winchester (you can read about them an even plan a trip to ride on the real Thomas trains by checking outwatercressline.co.uk).They are a day trip from the London rail stations, although I recommend using a B&B in the Winchester area and staying overnight if you decide to go.Winchester was the center of the old Saxon kingdom of Wessex of King Alfred as well as a major early medieval site (the Cathedral has the tombs of many of the Saxon Kings as well as Jayne Austen and Izaac Walton and it was where Richard the Lionhearted was crowned.)

Fantasic but Pricey!
When I ordered the roundhouse I believed that the red 5-way switch track was also included, especially when it is pictured on the box, but was disappointed to find that it wasn't. As my 4 year old son believes, as I am sure most do, that this is a very necessary piece of the building he will have to wait until his birthday to receive it (...). A little upsetting.
Apart from this one thing the Roundhouse is a fantastic piece to have on any Thomas layout, my son loves it and plays with it for hours. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Wooden Train Sets    2. Train Set Accessories    3. Wood    4. Preschool    5. Activity    6. Push and Pull Toys    7. Vehicles    8. Trains    9. Train Accessories   

Reviews (4)

Cool but Ionly wanted the construction cars
What I meant by my title is that I already had Rusty and I just wanted the Construction Cars. The cars sway from side to side and they can survive a lot of damage. I was suprised at how durable these were. The sets are a lot of fun because you don't need any additional things to go with it for immediate fun. These toys are really good for a car trip to keep a child busy when they are bored. I would higly recommend getting this set but don't buy Rusty first.

Rusty is good
Rusty is great. i got him as a present for christmas one year he has 3 cars - rusty a dumper and a cement mixer you can use him with cranky or anything with a magnet. he is also in some episodes on a video.

Rusty & Construction Cars!!
The Thomas & Friends wooden railroad gives you Rusty and 2 Construction Cars. This set provides hours of fun for your children because they can use this set to recreate stories about Rusty and his construction fun. Its educational value shows children how man-made things are built and they will probably use this set with thier Lincoln Logs and other construction kits. This is also a very sturdy set, but sometimes the mixer's top will come off and will need a frequent fix-up! Other than that, it's a wonderful set and a great gift idea! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Preschool    2. Vehicles    3. Trains    4. Activity    5. Push and Pull Toys    6. Dolls    7. Train Accessories   

Editorial Review

While Thomas the Tank Engine and his various friends have been featured quite nicely in a variety of toys, games, stories, videos, books, and pajamas, it's as a train set that Thomas really makes the most sense. And this sprawling ensemble is certain to delight any Thomas fan. Measuring 62 by 90 inches when laid out in full, it features Thomas and several of his pals including Percy, Harold, Annie and Clarabel, Terrence, Trevor, and Cranky, all of whom are motorized. Tunnels, bridges, and houses add to the authenticity of the set as do three engine sheds positioned around a large turntable with directional switch. 26 pieces of road let you arrange the town according to the prescribed plan or design your own unique layout. --Charlie Williams ... Read more

Reviews (6)

greatest toy i have ever had
my son loves this toy so much even forgot his favorite icecream when he was playing. not only he loves this toy, i am crazy about this`too. we had a lot of fun since we got this toy.

Thomas Crazy
My 3 yr old son is Thomas crazy. He has the wooden railway which he loves and we just recently bought this one. He seems to like the larger trains made by Tomy better than the wooden ones. I like this set, but I agree with previous reviewers that you'll have to find a way to re-configure it. It is VERY LARGE and my 3yr old tends to knock over and disconnect the track fairly frequently.The only other thing that I would add is that the box and picture of the vehicles is very misleading, 3 of the vehicles trevor, terrance and caroline are miniature. They are smaller even then both the wooden and metal trains by learning curve. This was a little upsetting to us because that was one of the reason we bought the set for the rare vehicles. All in all it most be pretty good because my sons plays with it from the time he wakes up until he goes to bed. You can hear him playing out the stories that he watches on the tapes.Also, although it is motorized you can put the trains in the off position and they can push it just like the wooden trains. We don't even put the batteries in anymore because like another reviewer we found that he just watched. It promtes much more imagination this way.

Really keeps our 3 year old busy
Although this set took a while to put together, my son absolutely loves it.He received it as a gift from a friend and he plays and plays and plays with it.It really helps stimulate learning in different areas and he doesn't even know it!

... Read more

Subjects:  1. Vehicles    2. Ride-Ons    3. Trains   

Editorial Review

Toot-toot! All aboard for lunch with the very functional Thomas the Tanklunch box, which is made of durable plastic and comes in the traditional Thomasblue with a red handle. Inside the generous container are an 11.5-ounce canteenand a Pecoware double-deck sandwich container, which measures 5 by 5 by 3inches. Both are adorned with Thomas scenes. On the front of the lunch box is anifty front panel--decorated with another happy Thomas scene--that clips open.This compartment is big enough to accommodate another sandwich or is the perfecthiding place to tuck away a secret goodie for your child. Press a button on theside of the canteen, and the cover pops up, revealing a straw. No muss, no fuss.The lunch box measures 9 by 7 by 4.5 inches and can hold a lot of food--forchildren or adults! --Diane Tuman ... Read more

Reviews (9)

The coolest lunchbox around!
My son loves everything Thomas.This was especially a big hit because of it's durability and style.I love the fact that it comes with everything!The sandwich container has a double decker compartment, and is perfect for a sandwich (or chicken nuggets, etc.), and the other compartment, which is like an extra plate inside the container is perfect for sides of veggies.The pop-up canteen is spillproof, and my son does love to drink out of it.And unlike other pop-up straws, this straw is short and hard, so it won't hamper speech development (otherwise they will just be sucking on it like a pacifier).It is also roomy enough to include other essentials like napkins, and cutlery, or a small toy.The only drawback is that the artwork in the canteen is falling apart, but I thought that was because it has been handwashed several times with a harsh detergent when we went to India for a month.Now I use the dishwasher and it has stopped the deterioration of the artwork.And also, my three-year old tends to fumble when opening or closing the hatch.On the other hand, he will be developing his fine-motor skills!With or without lunch, he loves toting it around and storing his toys on it.Plus, we get a lot of praise whenever other kids or moms see it, and they always asks us where we bought it!

straw cup comments
One reviewer mentionedthe straw cup being a major pain to clean.It doesn't have to be that way. I bought pipe cleaners, and when I clean it, I use those for the straw -- no need to disassemble.Also, if I really want to be careful, I'll run it through the microwave in a sterilizer with my baby bottles when I do those.Never have to worry.the cup is the main reason I love this product.I have a two year old, and the cup is great for travel, never spills, and she drinks a lot of water when she uses it.

You do have to replace the water fairly frequently because it takes on a plastic taste (indicates chemicals leaching from the plastic that you DO NOT want your child to inject) over the course of the day.

Not Dishwasher Safe
I purchased both this lunch box, and a similar one offered by the same company, (apparently no longer available,) at the same time, and put both into use on the same day.

We put the sandwich cases and bottles in the dishwasher at least 3 to 4 times a week.As of November 1st, the art on both Thomas products (bottle and sandwich case) is badly scarred and faded, with many areas showing no paint at all. (The white areas were the first to go.)The markings (ballet slippers) on the other lunch box set are unmarred and unchanged. This was disappointing, to say the least.However, it may be our fault, though I do not recall any warnings that these were not dishwasher safe.

However, the lunch box as a whole is rugged and works well. Our children enjoy using them.Just be aware: should you purchase this item, I suggest it be hand-washed only to preserve the art. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Activity   

Reviews (4)

Great peice!
My son loves all the Thomas stuff and this fire station is a great, very sturdy addition!

Time For Thomas
The Thomas train sets are great modern versions of the classic indestructible wooden train sets.Simple enough to avoid the toddler age frustrations of getting the cars to run on the track yet complex enough to engage a wide range of ages (up to and including Grandpas).All the stories help with the imagination part....the books & videos provide an endless source of adventures that can be acted out, although most kids are perfectly capable of inventing their own episodes.

Here is my advice, if you are trying to work your way through the maze of start-up options:

First of all, you can spend a fortune on a huge set....even if you can afford it, I would start with something small and give the child the joy of receiving a chain of small but intriguing presents over a long period of time.It fosters the joy of giving/receiving and helps teach them to come back again and again to the same toy...watching it grow, asking for specific items from the stories they hear, etc.Several reviewers suggest painting an old coffee table and this is a great idea.

I suggest the Figure 8 set (the most popular one) or if you want to spend a little bit more, the Conductors Figure 8 set.Both are complex enough to be interesting, but simple enough to give lots of room for growth.Almost immediately I would add a new present of one of the inexpensive engines (you can ask the child which story they like best and get that engine for them....or buy the engine to go with the video or book in the same gift)....these would be Percy The Small Engine, Bill The Yellow Engine, Treavor, (or a bit more $ for:) The Lady Engine, James The Red Engine, Gordon The Express Engine (he's one of the best stories, I think), or Henry The Green Engine.

Now for the good stuff!Give it a month or so, and then reward the child with something really cool like the Barrel Loader or Rusty the Construction 3 Car Set.

I honestly can't see the point in the huge multi hundred dollar system sets.If you want to impress the neighbors or something, go for it, but I'm telling you.....most kids will enjoy a large number of small thoughtful gifts, not a "keep-up-with-the-Jones" effort on your part.

Good behavior can be rewarded with a pick-your-own trip to the store (there are sometimes when a real time shopping trip can't be beat)

By the way, the Thomas stories are based on real restored engines that run in England on the Mid-Hants Railway Watercress line near Winchester (you can read about them an even plan a trip to ride on the real Thomas trains by checking outwatercressline.co.uk).They are a day trip from the London rail stations, although I recommend using a B&B in the Winchester area and staying overnight if you decide to go.Winchester was the center of the old Saxon kingdom of Wessex of King Alfred as well as a major early medieval site (the Cathedral has the tombs of many of the Saxon Kings as well as Jayne Austen and Izaac Walton and it was where Richard the Lionhearted was crowned.)

why is the roof not attached to this toy????????????
Is it just my firehouse? The roof comes off. Why is this? It get's lost and has fallen many times. Overall, this is a fun purchase and addition to our thomas track. I love the little fire truck it comes with. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Train Set Accessories    2. Vehicles    3. Trains    4. Train Accessories   

Editorial Review

Gordon is a long, blue express locomotive who supplies water for Thomas and tows a coal tender.

Based on the award-winning PBS television series Shining Time Station by the Rev. W. Awdry, the Thomas the Tank train system is the perfect child's train set. Each wooden vehicle has a different name, character, and face. The magnetic bumpers make linking up easy. Friendly characters will engage your child in hours of imaginary play. Designed to support your child's development, the system encourages the use of new motor and cognitive skills. --Sandy Hirsch ... Read more

Reviews (10)

Gordon's the Best!
If you have a train lover in your house, or are just beginning your child's collection, Gordon is a definite must.He's in almost every story and is the fourth engine in the shed.He's huge, shiny, and always boastful, but a good friend to Thomas.Ours gets taken to bed, along with a couple of the other engines, which is always the true test for a toy!These trains come with a lifetime guarantee and are just a must if you have little boys in particular.Gordon has made a zillion trips along his line in our house and he's probably one of the most enjoyed too.Grab him and see how much fun your little one has with him - he's highly recommended!

Gordon sure can pull a lot of coaches at once
When my sister plays express with Gordon and all the coaches she sometimes has a hard time pulling them. Then when I help her I realize how many coaches Gordon can pull. It amazes me how strong gordon really is. Like all Thomas trains the magnet is very durable and it can be used for hours of use.

Express Engines
Gordon is a big express engine who is fast. He is the same size as He is in some story stops like Gordon takes a dip and Henry and the elephant. He has a tender with the number 4 on it. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Vehicles    2. Trains    3. Wooden Train Sets    4. Preschool    5. Activity    6. Push and Pull Toys    7. Train Accessories   

Editorial Review

James the Red Engine is one of the Thomas the Tank Engine series of train cars and is made of real wood. James has a cheery, smiling face on the front of the engine, promising an adventure as soon as the train leaves the station. James the Red Engine pulls his own coal car, so he won't run out of fuel. The cars attach to each other with magnets. This is a toy that encourages imaginative play and requires no batteries. Engine with attached coal car measures 5.75 inches in length. --Margaret Quinn ... Read more

Reviews (12)

Great toy - Great size!
My two-year-old son loves all his wooden Thomas trains!They keep him busy for hours and are extremely durable.Someone gave us some metal/plastic Thomas trains, and he plays with them too, but their plastic parts break quickly (ie: Harold's plastic helicopter blades, the plastic "link-ups", etc.)The wooden ones with the magnets seem to last forever, with only minor paint wear resulting from lots and lots of playtime!

Used in conjunction with the videos or books, they teach things like proper behavior and all those good "moral" examples.Plus, they teach colors and numbers because of the design of each individual train.He loves James' bright red color.

The fact that they are not battery-powered and do not absolutely require a track is a huge "plus" to me.They can go anywhere, and anything in the house can serve as a railway track.It's only limited by your child's imagination (and climbing ability.) We did visit a friend's house recently who had a battery-powered Thomas, and my son did enjoy it also, so we may possibly be getting a few of those to add to the collection at the holidays.

Another reviewer felt they were "dinky" and was disappointed by the size of the trains.To me, that is one of the best features.As I said, they can go anywhere (keeps him busy at a restaurant!) and they are perfectly proportioned to fit very well into small hands.Plus, they don't take up so much space in your house, especially if you start a whole collection!However, be warned that they WILL be underfoot at all times because your kids will love to play with them so much, so watch your step.

Sometimes the simplest thing is the best thing, and I think that's definitely the case with the Thomas trains.

Hooray for James
James does a great job pulling the coaches along the track. He can pull pretty much anything at a fast pace. I've had my Jame sfor 9 years and it looks almost new. He's a great engine andyou can live the episodes with these trains.

Grandma's Magic Accident
I purchased Thomas the engine without realizing that it was not battery operated.I gave it to my 2 year old grandson for his birthday because I had nothing else to give, and the twinkle in his eyes let me know I had hit upon a winner.The adventures for Thomas and his friends have not ended.I have since purchsed, Skarloey, Ben & Bill, Douglas, Percy, Toby and Bertie.The adventures just don't seem to end for my grandson.He plays with this toy for hours.His vocabulary has increased at the same pace as his adventures.The fact that this is not battery operated is the joy of the toy.I need not turn on the television to keep him occupied, he has Thomas and his many friends and that is good enough for me. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Vehicles    2. Trains    3. Preschool    4. Wooden Train Sets    5. Activity    6. Push and Pull Toys    7. Train Accessories   

Editorial Review

Kindhearted but noisy, Harold the Helicopter likes to drop in on the Island of Sodor to visit his railway friends. This 4-inch sturdy wood helicopter is white with a sleek red racing stripe above his name. With a rotating propeller and plastic landing pontoons, Harold is ready for action. Based on the popular Thomas the Tank Engine series by Reverend W. Awdry and the PBS television show Shining Time Station, this flying fellow is part of the much-loved wooden railway system, which is compatible with other magnetic train sets. You can reenact all the exciting stories in the series or make up new ones. Thomas fans won't want to miss out on any of these fun, well-built railway characters. --Emilie Coulter ... Read more

Reviews (14)

Master of the skies
Everyone knows who Harold the helicopter is. He flies around the Island of Sodor taking visitors, cargo, and sometimes Sir Topham Hatt. Harold can sometimes tease the engines but is always there when a friend is in need. I have had this toy for about 12 years and it is still in mint condition, that shows you how durable it is. I don't play with it anymore, now it is for display only.

Broken propellers!!
My son has repeatedly broken the plastic propeller. Why can't it be made of wood like the rest of it. I was disappointed with Harold being plastic. Luckily they replace it for us. We love the thomas toys

Lots of fun, but easily broken
My 3 year old son did chores around the house to buy this toy himself. We were very disappointed when one of the rotors broke off within a month. I was with him when it broke. He was not doing anything rough with it. He didn't even drop it. We did not realize there was a guarantee. We've glued it back together at least 10 times. I don't know if that voids the guarantee or not.

Otherwise, it is a great toy. My son carries it all over the place. He says it is his favorite. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Push and Pull Toys    2. Trains    3. Train Accessories    4. Vehicles    5. Helicopters    6. Wooden Train Sets    7. Wood    8. Preschool    9. Train Set Accessories    10. Planes    11. Activity   

Reviews (13)

Thomas
My 4 year old son really enjoys this toy!! It's not for hours on end but he enjoys the logs and the helicopter most. The durability is great because he has dragged the train all over the carpet lol. I would recommend this as a starter train set.

Nice Toy!
This is a very cute set! My 3 yr old loved to watch it, but we both grew tired of that after awhile. He prefers to push the trains himself. He can do that with the Tomy trains if switched to the off position, however this set is not compatable with the other Tomy trains in that you have to have the special freight car to trigger the different mechanisms. It is also a little difficult to combine this with some of the other Tomy playsets for this reason.

Quality productb that is well built!
This is a great toy that we got for our son. He has hours of fun just watching it go around and load and unload timbers. I like the well built design of the trains. I was most impressed with the design construction of the gear mechanisms in the trains. They are made to unspline the gear mesh when turned off. This way when your child pushes the train when it's off there is no chance of stripped gears and ruined motors. If this toy ever wore out or broke I would purchase a new one without thought. Great toy and the motion is fantastic! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Vehicles    2. Trains   

Reviews (2)

Holds up to daily playtime!
Santa brought this set for my 3 year old son last Christmas and he has played with it everyday since. With daily use, this wooden set is holding up to his rough play. His favorite piece is Cranky the Crane. It's easy to add onto as we have added the hospital and another bridge. We purchased a Nilo table to put the train on so it will stay together. Well worth the money!

Great for 18 months and up!But expensive...
The Thomas train and train collections are durable toys. Their real value, though, is that playing with the toys allows children to act out the great Thomas and Friends children's stories they read and watch.

This is a nice layout that provides far more track than the usual figure 8 layout that gets purchased first. But it is very expensive. There is generic track available that costs far less. Our kids haven't noticed the difference. IT IS EASY TO CREATE ELEVATED TRACK AND BRIDGES USING LEGO OR DUPLO PIECES AS SUPPORTS.GENERIC CRANES ARE AVAILABLE FOR MUCH LESS.

Kids' imaginations can remarkably supply buildings and water towers and cranes, etc., so that they won't even miss what might be lacking from less expensive sets. And families can build some of these items themselves out of old boxes, etc.

Purchasing recommendation:
* Choose which type of Thomas trains you will 'standardize' on. There are three kinds: This size of wooden trains from Learning Curve; larger, plastic, battery-operated trains from Tomy; and smaller, die-cast metal trains from Ertl. The wooden trains have the most products and accessories available.

* The clickety-clack (grooved to look like real railroad) track in the Thomas series is great, but it's expensive; I recommend buying generic track. ... You can literally save hundreds of dollars by buying these kinds of sets.

* Buy the Thomas and friends engines separately--and wait for sales. The kids care about the characters, so no short-cutting (ie., Brio or generic trains) here.

* Look for trains bundled with VHS videos. You can get a video and a train (on sale) for about the same price as a train alone. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Train Set Accessories    2. Vehicles    3. Trains    4. Train Accessories   

Editorial Review

Watch out for falling rock! Railroad construction ahead!Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends Big Loader will bring out the train conductor in any child. When the big loader is running, use the control buttons on the track to make the train change direction. Itsy-bitsy engineers control whatever it does next. The track includes hoppers, loading docks, and transfer ramps. The motorized chassis fits under Thomas, Percy, and Terrance, the toys' included companions. After parents take a few minutes to read the simple instructions, make sure a 2-by-2-foot space is available for construction. Requires one AA battery for operation. --Andrea Linsky ... Read more

Features

• Requires at least a 2-by-2-foot space
• Thomas, Percy, and Terrence cars included

Reviews (99)

Never works!!!
I just spent an hour with my two boys (4 and 2) "playing" with this train set.I was able to put it together relatively quickly, despite the directions being perfectly unclear.But the trains don't work at all.The tops keep falling off the chassis, and we have to push Thomas up the ramp every single time; whatever is supposed to aid the train against gravity isn't working.I can sit there with the kids and repeatedly fix, push, pull, aid, and assist the trains, but the point was kind of for them to have something to do WITHOUT me.I'm going back to the wooden Thomas sets.

Piece of junk!
Waste of time and money.Very frustrating.Keeps jumping off the track.Wish I had read the reviews before purchasing at the store.I will be taking this piece of junk back!

Save your money
After months of asking, I finally caved in and bought this set for my son's fourth birthday.It was tedious to put together and the pieces are poorly made.After finally getting the track assembled, my son was anxious to enjoy his new toy.I will say that it was somewhat entertaining to watch the train travel around the track a few times while changing to the different characters.The problem for me is that everytime my son accidentally touched or shifted slightly against the track there would be a malfunction where the train would go off the track or the top pieces of the train would fall off.The pieces are flimsy and my son became increasingly frustrated. My husband at one point had to tell my son to stay away from the toy and that he couldn't touch it, but to just simply watch it go around the track.If you want a "toy" that you can't engage in and do not get frustrated easily during the assembly process than this is the toy for you.MY son likes to actively engage in his play, so this didn't fit our needs. We finally put the pieces back in the box, and I told him we would return it for something else tomorrow. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Push and Pull Toys    2. Vehicles    3. Trains    4. Preschool    5. Activity   

Subjects:  1. Train Set Accessories    2. Vehicles    3. Trains    4. Train Accessories   

Subjects:  1. Train Set Accessories    2. Vehicles    3. Trains    4. Train Accessories   

Editorial Review

Little conductors will have loads of fun with this high-quality figure-eight railroad set from Thomas & Friends. Made of wood, the track features an elevated bridge in the center and a water tower where Thomas can re-fuel; the "water" rises and falls with flicks of the spout. Sir Topham Hatt and a red cargo car keep Thomas company. Other items in the 25-piece set include a railroad-crossing sign, a stop sign, and a tree. The instructions clearly diagram how to assemble the track. The box has a handle and makes a good carrying case. --Andy Boynton ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Great value for a great set!
We gave this to our 4 yr old son for his birthday.When he opened it - he yelled out "Cool!".I don't think there could be any higher praise from a 4 yr old.

He had wanted the water tower, but since it retailed for $25 alone - I felt it was definitely worth it to spend $15 more and get the whole set!

Thomas products from learning curve are excellent quality and will provide years of enjoyment for your little engineer!

Fantastic value and wonderfully entertaining
This is by far the best deal I've seen on a Thomas set. The water tower retails alone for $24.00 and the bridge for $18! My son is absolutely wild about Thomas and the water tower and bridge are the two things he plays with the most. I am thrilled that they have combined them into a set along with track, and plan to give this as a gift to my nephew.

The water tower contains liquid that appears to "drain" when you lower the spout (this alone is worth hours of entertainment for a toddler). The bridge has 3 parts and is very easy for young hands to assemble. It's reasonably stable, although the top piece is not held in place with anything other than gravity and can be knocked over accidentally. There is plenty of room underneath for trains and track. Some cheaper sets have bridges that are so low that the trains don't fit underneath.

Thomas brand track is excellent quality and features indented "ties," unlike less expensive versions. However, it's fully compatible with Brio, Imaginarium, and several generic brands on the market. This set also includes a Thomas train and cargo car to start your Thomas collection (Watch out! It's addicting). These would retail for about $10 apiece if you bought them separately. If your child already has a Thomas train, don't worry. To a 2 or 3 year old, two identical trains are more fun than one.

A simple figure-8 track layout is best for young children who are being introduced to wooden train sets for the first time. You can also rearrange the pieces to make a loop or simple circle. I highly recommend this set as a first train set for any boy or girl age 2 and up! A great companion is Thomas Wacky Track, which allows for a wider range of curve diameters, and reduces the frustration level of beginning engineers. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Vehicles    2. Wooden Train Sets    3. Trains    4. Train Accessories   

Editorial Review

Thomas the Tank is the signature bright-blue engine in the Thomas the Tank series. He does light yard work and pulls small passenger cars, such as Annie and Clarabel. Based on the award-winning television series Shining Time Station by the Reverend W. Awdry, the Thomas the Tank train system fulfills all of a child's choo-choo dreams. Each vehicle has a different name, character, and face. It is wooden and 2 inches high with black plastic wheels. The magnetic bumpers at the ends of each vehicle make linkup easy. Children will become friends with each one, developing not only imaginative play but social skills and new motor and cognitive skills as they mature. --Sandy Hirsch ... Read more

Reviews (16)

don't buy thomas the train...unless
thomas the train is the first in thousands of dollars worth of great toys for a child.the only problem is if you buy this train...it starts a fascination not only with your children, but with you as well.my wife and I found ourselves searching out different thomas the train characters and have now spent about a thousand dollars on trains and accessories... it starts with this one blue little train and after a while you have invested a fortune... be warned don't start the addiction!

Durable classic
Thomas the Tank Engine IS my young son's favorite toy. Actually Thomas is just the beginning. When you start adding on other vehicles and buildings, you'll soon have a little railroad empire going. The price is up there a bit, but when a kid loves it like mine does, in the long run it is worth it. We got Thomas for him when he was two. He is now four and still going strong. Thomas will be a keepsake for our child's heritage book long after he has outgrown it.

The one and only Thomas the Tank Engine
Thomas is great and it's so fun to pull him along the track woth Annie and Clarabel. When I make the big setes In set aside a branch line for Thomas, Percy, and sometimes Lady. Thomas is great but in order to get the experience you need Annie and Clarabel. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Vehicles    2. Trains    3. Preschool    4. Wooden Train Sets    5. Activity    6. Push and Pull Toys    7. Train Accessories   

Editorial Review

Peep-peep! Here comes Percy the little steam engine from the ever-popular Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends book series and television's Shining Time Station (based on The Railway Series by Reverend W. Awdry). With its rounded corners and larger features, this chunky-styled Percy is designed for little hands. Made of lightweight plastic and sporting rubber-trimmed tires, Percy, the youngest and most eager engine in the station, heads off down the tracks with his traditional three-dimensional smiling face. A rear coupling prong allows Percy to pull freight and passenger cars of his same chunky style. The 4.5-inch-by-2.5-inch engine has an axle width of 1.75 inches and fits plastic tracks designed for the My First Thomas train series. This toy does not fit the standard 1.5-inch wooden tracks. --Kathryn Gustafson ... Read more

Reviews (7)

No visible scratches had it for 2 years
Most of my trains are pretty old except for the new ones but Percy really hasn't had any scratches and i've had him for nine years. His magnet is still there and it's in working order. Percy is one of everyone's favorite engines and this one is a great buy!

My son loves it!!!
My son is a big fan of Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends.His favorite is Percy.He takes his Percy trains with him wherever he goes (to bed, in the car, around the house, etc.).We even bought an extra for him just in case he loses one of them.If your children love Thomas (and what toddler doesn't?), I do have a piece of advice--get duplicates of the trains.You never know if one will get lost, or forgotten!I got doubles of most of the trains, Percy included, and it can be a real lifesaver when one gets lost or left behind!

Great
This toy is great.My whole family has fun every evening playing with this train.The just can't get enough of it!

Also, it's able to withstand lots of rough playing.

This is a must! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Vehicles    2. Trains    3. Preschool    4. Wooden Train Sets    5. Activity    6. Push and Pull Toys    7. Train Accessories   

Reviews (3)

Spencer is number one!
This guy has a minor role in the Thomas series, but boy, is he a favorite in our house!He's different - his face looks laid back and he has a smirk on his face as well.He's a bit snooty since his job is to take the Duke and Duchess of Boxford around but since he is the fastest engine, well, he has a right to be snooty!He's on the video "New Friends for Thomas" and instantly became a favorite!Sure am glad he's available and am wondering when Max is coming out!Highly recommend this one - he's really different and a great addition to our set.Highly Recommend!

Spencer the British mallard
Spencer is a silver British mallard (the fastest steam engine of its time), with a coal tender in the back, and a laid-back face.If your child enjoys acting out the stories from the Thomas video series, Spencer was brought to the island as the private engine of the visiting Duke and Duchess of Boxford, so his personality is a bit snooty. As you can see, Spencer has a very minor role in the Thomas & Friends TV show, but this train is a must have!He has a unique look. I have enjoyed Spencer as well, and bought some express coaches for him.

Spenser The Silver Engine
Spenser, one of the newer friends of Thomas, is a great addition to the Thomas line. As with all of the wooden trains, these hold up really well.

I'm noticing the paint on the top chipping off, but I suppose this is to be expected with trains that are tossed into a huge backpack and jostled around.

My son plays a lot with these trains, and gets much enjoyment from them! ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Vehicles    2. Trains    3. Train Accessories