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   

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)

GeoTrax Elevation Track Pack (RAMPS)
The "Elevation Track Pack (RAMPS)" is one of three track kits offered from the Elevation Series.The other two kits are the "Elevation Track Pack (FLATS), and the "Elevation Track Pack (STRAIGHTS & RAMPS)".

The RAMPS kit is great because it includes 4 ramps, which is enough track to elevate the train from level 0 (ground level) to level 1, level 2, and then all the way back down to level 1 and then level 0.

You will need this kit to use the Sky High Suspension Bridge (at level 1), and the High Chimes Clock Tower (at levels 1 and 2).

The other useful kit that you should purchase along with this one is the Elevation Track Pack (FLATS).Once the train is elevated, you will want to stay at that level.The FLATS kit includes a few straights, and just as importantly, the extra stanchions needed to hold the track up.

The STRAIGHTS & RAMPS kit is NOT very useful because it includes only 6 stanchions (the supports that hold up the track).There are NOT enough stanchions to use the Elevation track in the way that it was intended.

The only disadvantage is that the layouts get quite complex because now the layout is three dimensional (instead of two).This may present a challenge to use up all of the track pieces and to build a fun and interesting layout.You'll run out of track and have to go through a number of iterations, and time, to get it all connected.

All things considered, it is a great toy that is very rugged and it will keep your child's interest for a long time.

For some great track layout ideas, search for "Geotrax Track Layout" on eBay.

A Whole New Dimension
This is a must-have item if you want to add the Clock Tower to your set.It also works well with the other "elevation" sets, particularly Mile High Mountain.

The set includes the following:

4 ramps (these are made from two shorter pieces that are screwed together)
2 curves
2 short straights
2 guard rails
2 end ramps
8 arches (2 supports and 1 crosspiece each)

The crosspieces of the arches have a picture of how the ends of the track should be aligned.The screws are a little tough but never need to be removed.The set is enough to run up two full levels and back down again (my son has played with this set just by itself having fun running up, around and racing back down).You can also make two single-level bridges, a single level bridge and a ramp down from Mile High Mountain, or many other setups.

This set literally adds a new dimension to a Geotrax set.Lots of fun.The short pieces also allow for different configurations that may have been frustrating in the past.Definitely fun.

Way to go Fisher Price!
The new track are really cool to put together though a little tougher then the other track for younger children.My 4 1/2 year old loves it but my 3 year old just can't put them together nor does him understand the concept.My husband and I have alot of fun building large 3D tracks all over our living room.

Great toy but the elevation series is not for 2 1/2 year olds maybe 3 1/2. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Construction    2. Building Sets   

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

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   

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   

Subjects:  1. Construction    2. Building Sets   

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   

Editorial Review

Kids who love Thomas the Tank Engine may recall the fun when Henry and the Elephant came to the Island of Sodor via the Circus Train. Made of sturdy wood and plastic, this set of three cars comes with five wooden animals: an elephant, a lion, a tiger, a zebra, and a giraffe. Like all cars and engines in the system, these link together via a sturdy and reliable system of magnets. Use them as components in a whole miniature world of train-car characters, wooden tracks, and scenery based on the popular Thomas the Tank Engine book, television, and video series. This product has a lifetime warranty. --Joan DeClaire ... Read more

Reviews (14)

Fun, but can't use the pieces
This is a fun set, except the animals do not fit through any of the tunnuls.We use the open box-cars for the barels that go with another set.If you are only going to use the animals without any tunnels, which is difficult with small children (they love tunnels), its a fun set.If you set up big train configs...get something else.

Lots of fun... but size is a problem!
My son recently received the Circus Train for his 2nd birthday. He was really excited to see the animals, and loves to put them in the cage cars and drive them around the track. He has been very frustrated, however, because his train can't fit through any tunnels or bridges when the animals are on board - the animals are just too tall. I think the Circus Train would be a great addition to your Thomas Wooden Railway IF you don't have the bridges or tunnels to worry about. If you do have these items in your layout, I'd suggest the Ivo Hugh zoo set instead, as it is made to fit through those low clearance areas.

Circus Train Won't Go Under Bridges
Why would they meke a train that won't go under their own bridges? ... Read more

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

Subjects:  1. Construction    2. Building Sets   

Editorial Review

Frighteningly high above a deep ravine, Thomas the Tank Engine peers over the edge, wondering how he will get to the station on time. He's saved only by the immediate construction of a bridge that gets him clickity-clacking across in no time. The Reverend W. Awdry created the Island of Sodor as a place for childhood imagination to run free with his Thomas the Tank Engine series of books. The Sodor Bay Bridge expands opportunities for dreaming and connects to any of the tracks from the Thomas Wooden Railway System. Two train trestle bridges connect to span 25 inches. Manufactured by high-quality toy maker Learning Curve, the bridge is sturdily made of wood with blue plastic supports to endure years of adventurous play. --Lynne Sampson ... Read more

Reviews (4)

The Bay bridge is a must
Starting around age 2 the "World of Thomas" and his train friends became the biggest part of my son's days of play. If you are as deep into Thomas as my family is then the Sodor Bay Bridge is a must have. Hours and hours are spend pushing the toy trains over and under the bridge. Your first three starter purchases should be the trains, the tracks and then this bridge.Good Luck it is an expensive "world" your getting into!!!

I LOVED it ... and so did my nephew
I ordered the bridge and then read the review that said the bridge didn't come with the ascending tracks.My trip to a local independent toy store confirmed the review.After purchasing additional tracks ... and driving 4 hours so that the tracks would make it in time for his 3rd birthday, he opened the box and I shocked to see the tracks he needed to connect the bridge to the rest of his set.I guess the manufacturer has addressed this issue....

I played with it (the bridge, figure 8 set with battery powered engine, and additional tracks) for a good hour before realizing I was enjoying it more than him!The tracks are extremely durable.My nephew and his brother and sister all loved it.

Love this, but . . .
I bought this accessory for my 2-year-old son Sam, and he loves everything about it except the fact that there is not quite enough top clearance for trains to pass underneath -- You have to set the spans on blocks for that. I also agree that the set should include the ascending track, or at least anotice that it's sold separately. ... Read more

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

Editorial Review

Good is always balanced with evil, and in the case of the movieThomas and the Magic Railroad, Diesel 10 is a truly icky badguy. Teamed with sidekicks Splatter and Dodge, Diesel 10 is a renegadeengine on the Island of Sodor out to destroy the harmony of Sir TophamHatt's Railway. To intensify this train's nastiness, Diesel 10--on ascale of 1 to 10--is rated 10 for devious deeds and brutal strength.Measuring 4.25 inches long, Diesel 10 has two sets of wheels thatswivel, helping this extra-long train negotiate the tracks. Equippedwith a mischievous expression, Diesel 10 is pea green and--just like inthe movie--has a claw-like arm on top to help create havoc. As with allThomas the Tank Engine Learning Curve products, Diesel 10 is made ofhard maple and has two magnets on each end to allow your child toexpand their set. --Diane Tuman ... Read more

Reviews (7)

The infamous Diesel #10
Thomas fans who have seen Thomas and the Magic Railroad probably are familiar with Diesel #10. For those who haven't seen the movie, Diesel #10 is an evil diesel who hates steam engines and wants to find the lost steam engine so he can put an end to all the other steam engines. Little kids will have a great time making up their own adventures or creating the original movie plot with this toy. I would highly suggest this toy for little Thomas fans.

I've Got To Agree On the Claw
We also have a Thomas fanatic in our home and while we've been watching all the video/dvd's for months, I held out on the movie because someone told me it was terrible. (PS: It's pretty terrible, but your Thomas fan will love it so be prepared to watch it 100's of times ughh).Where was I, oh yeah...my son LOVES the Thomas movie and LOVES Diesel and Lady so I ordered both for his birthday.He was so excited when he opened his present and realized it was Diesel, however that quickly turned to concern when the first thing out of his mouth was "Mom, he's broken, the claw doesn't bite or move up and down".

I don't know why LC designed Diesel this way since the fact that Diesel's claw can move up and down and bite is such a HUGE part of the Thomas movie.Regardless my son took him quickly to the Island of Sodor (his train table) and played with him for the rest of the night.He wouldn't trade Diesel in for anything, but Diesel won't get 5 stars because I think his designer made a boo-boo by not making him more true to his character in the movie.

Diesel (and Lady) is still an important edition to your train set though if your little one is a fan of the Thomas movie.

Diesel's Claw is pretty cool
Diesel 10 was introduced in Thomas and the Magic Railroad and his claw goes backwards and fowards. It's fun to have him chase Thomas and Lady along the Track. He can also pull coaches and cars. He is good with Splatter, Dodge, and Lady. All the Thomas trains are very durable and they work perfectly. ... Read more

Subjects:  1. Vehicles    2. Trains    3. Wooden Train Sets    4. TV Characters    5. Movies    6. Preschool    7. Train Accessories   

Reviews (3)

Transfer Freight, and Make a Bit of Noise Too!
My son is a Thomas the Tank Engine fanatic.Encouraging pretend playtime is easy especially when adding destinations to the existing train set.The Cargo Transfer Station was one of the items William received for his 3rd birthday, and as it turns out, it's the most beloved destination yet.

The Cargo Transfer Station is one of the NEW Wooden Railway Sights & Sounds Destinations.I didn't understand what that meant when I ordered the item, as I wasn't an authority on Thomas & Friends.Almost a year later, I can safely say that I have a working knowledge of the current railway system, and the beloved character engines.The NEW Wooden Railway Sights & Sounds Destinations have multi-sensory capabilities.They make sounds.

One of the reasons the Thomas & Friends wooden railway was so appealing to me was because it didn't require batteries.I like the idea of child-powered toys, because I think it induces more creativity than a bunch of flashing lights, and noise.Personally, I was a bit disappointed when I discovered this toy was battery-operated.That said, my attitude on the noise issue doesn't matter to my son, as he adores this toy.Often times the switch is turned off, and I've noticed the lack of sounds doesn't take away from the fun factor.

Fortunately, the Cargo Transfer Station fit in my son's existing setup, so we didn't have to disassemble the Mountain Tunnel Set to make room for the new destination.Other destinations require a new setup, so I see this as a bonus.In addition, some of the Thomas & Friends bridges, or destinations are best placed in the center of a layout.This plaything can be placed anywhere within a layout, as it replaces a 6" straight track.

I wonder if Learning Curve made the right choice by introducing the NEW Wooden Railway Sights & Sounds Destinations to the line.A good part of this piece is made out of plastic whereas most of the other items in the line are wood.I realize the reason for using plastic is probably to reduce the price, but I also think it reduces the quality, and weakens the line.William's been playing with his train set for 10-months now, and we've had no issues.Then, he received the Cargo Transfer Station, and 5-months later it breaks.In my opinion, these plastic pieces lower the standard, although they may entertain your child.

My son LOVES this!
Of all the Thomas pieces we hae, this is one of the few that my son always insisits on including in whatever the latest configuration is.It is costly (as are all Thomas things), but comes with cargo and two cargo cars.It makes cool noises and has a great working crane that swivels.Not a bad deal.

Great product!
I bought this for my son for Christmas and it is great!The train engine, truck and crane noises make it really fun and interesting.Must warn you though, you will be buying more road track and a few characters for the road experience but well worth it and the imagination just flows!The race with Berty and Thomas, loading of the trains and the trucks- it's great for educational and dexerity purposes. ... Read more

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

Editorial Review

The leading lady of the big screen gem Thomas and the MagicRailroad, Lady is a beautiful magenta-and-gold engine who holds thesecret to the Magic Railroad. She measures a petite 2 inches long andhas exquisite detailing, including a wide-eyed, charming face and hername scripted on the side panels. This high-quality engine is stunningalone, but is also compatible with other wooden railway systems'magnetic train sets. Kids of all ages will love reenacting scenes fromthe movie--or making up all-new adventures. --Melissa Wilson ... Read more

Reviews (7)

After Two years of use it's time for another one
I was really disapointed when I found my Lady's paint chipped off in most places. We need a new one now and that's a bummer becase I have at least 70 thomas trains and most of them survived pretty well .

For 18 months to 8 years: Be prepared to buy them all!
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.

The only problem--if you can call it that--is that you can't just buy one! Your kids will want more and more. These are the most played with toys our son has. The characters are his friends, and we tell stories with Thomas, James, Gordon, and the rest of the gang.

Lady only appears in the Thomas and the Magic Railroad movie. But she is an important character, and the kids adore her. My own three-year old son was so overcome with excitement at the sight of Lady that for a long time he couldn't watch her when she first appeared on-screen and wouldn't play with her when we initially bought him this toy. She is magical, and kids pick up on that. THIS IS AN ESSENTIAL PIECE IF YOUR CHILD HAS SEEN THE THOMAS AND THE MAGIC RAILROAD MOVIE.Note that durability is an issue: the smokestack is very thin at the bottom and can easily snap off.

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.

Good, but not what I expected
When I ordered this item, it was listed at $....When I received the item in the mail, it was listed at $..., not what was shown on the website.Also, I thought this would be a metal piece, like the Thomas we already have, instead it is wooden. ... Read more

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

Editorial Review

This miniature water tower is a simple, clever toy that is fun for any age. Attached to a smallplatform and piece of track, it fits neatly into the Thomas the Train layout that your child has alreadydesigned. A lever action pump "empties" and "fills" the see-through tower, so your child will have a realsense of filling up the engine.

Based on the award-winning Shining Time Station television series, the Thomas the Tank Enginetrain system fulfills all of a child's train-set dreams. Each 2-inch-high, wooden vehicle has black plasticwheels and a different name, character, and face, and there are magnetic bumpers at the ends for easylink-up. Your child will delight in making the pieces interact during imaginary play and will learn socialskills playing train with friends. Designed to keep pace with your child's development, this toyencourages the use of new motor and cognitive skills. Other track pieces and accessories are available.--Sandy Hirsch ... Read more

Reviews (7)

My Son Loves The Water Tower!
My son had been asking for the Water Tower for quite some time, so we finally got it for him.

The plastic that encases the liquid is very, very sturdy--and it has never leaked. (Believe me...my son puts his Thomas accessories through the paces!) It's quite heavy, and fits right onto the wooden railway. By moving the black spout up and down, the blue liquid appears to empty and re-fill.

Kids seem to be fascinated with it, including my son. I definitely recommend the Water Tower as a neat accessory to any wooden railway system.

good for all kids
my mom boght me and mybrothergot this for christmas .HE didnt like this toy but i loved it!

Neat addition to your train set
We have a LOT of water towers in our city and my son is just fascinated with them.So, I bought this water tower after he refused to stop playing with it at The Anderson's General store.What a great purchase this is!I personally love watching the pretend water going up and down with the movement of the spout."Water tower" as my little one calls it, goes everywhere with us.To church, to grandma's, grocery store, you name it, it's his favorite train piece.Why, I have no idea but I do know that he, along with every other child I've seen with it, absolutely adores this tower. ... Read more

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

Editorial Review

From the popular Thomas the Tank Engine book series and television's Shining Time Station, based on the Railway Seriesby Rev. W. Awdry, comes Henry, the proud green engine. Made of hardwood, withshiny green paint, a three-dimensional face, and a magnetically coupled coal car,Henry is ready for hard work. Being one of the largest steam engines at ShiningTime Station, eight-wheeled Henry, also known as No. 3, can easily pull severalfreight cars along with his 2-inch coalcar. Wheel axles measure 1 inch across and fit standard Brio wooden traintracks, and similar 1- to 1.5-inch grooved train tracks. Train buffs young andold will enjoy recreating authentic railway scenes as they collect thesewonderfully crafted, classic train cars, bridges, ramps, tunnels, stations, andmore from the Thomas the Tank Engine & Friends Wooden Railway System. --Kathryn Gustafson ... Read more

Reviews (1)

1,2,3
I noticed the numbers on all the engines so I bought this one so I could make it so my son could count the engines from 1-10.This is number 3.Only the coal cars are marked.This is a large engine.It's size makes it difficult to push around and it derails easily.My son is 16 moths old and has trouble with this engine I recommend it if for the 2+ crowd. ... 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

Edward is a cheerful blue worker train. Hauling coal, helping the big guys, hanging out in the train yard--this friendly fellow's goal in life is to be a really useful engine. This 3-inch sturdy wood engine and the accompanying 2-inch cargo car will surely get the job done every time. Based on the popular Thomas the Tank Engine series by Reverend W. Awdry and the PBS television show Shining Time Station, the wooden railway system 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 (6)

Kind old Edward still works perfectly
I know Edward is old and my train sure is but he can still pull trains likje the big engines. His magnet is in perfect working order and he can pull a couple coaches without trouble at all. A cool thing about Edward and all the other tender engines is that little kids love to take the tender on and off. I thinks it's so funny when they do that. Edward really works well and he's capable of hours of enjoyment at a time.

This one's for the kids- all the kids!
This is a great toy that all the kids I know just love to play with!It's always enjoyable to play with trains, especially ones with familiar faces.Also, this toy is very durable.

A Fun, Durable Toy
Edward the Blue Engine is a well-built toy that can stand up to demanding play.My son recently received Edward as a bonus item included with a Thomas video and he loves it.The attention to detail is excellent, and the strong wooden construction will assure many hours of enjoyable play.Edward's bright smile will also make playtime a happy time. ... 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

What child who doesn't love Thomas the Tank's friendly face? The Thomas Medium set is a great introduction--or addition--to Thomas the Tank's world. The set comes complete with a train station, a traffic light, a little greenery and even a drawbridge. This "unique motorized road and rail system" is compatible with all other Thomas the Tank engine sets so you can easily add additional tracks or collect all of Thomas the Tank's friends. --Andrea Linsky ... Read more

Reviews (17)

Thomas & Friends - Train Set
Bought this for my son for Christmas he is Four Years Old. He loved it. Setup was a snap (sorry no pun intended) only took 5 minutes. Only needs one AA battery goes in Thomas (just pull middle wheels down and lift off the top carriage).

The bridge is great, there is a switch to stop the train at the station and two props (tree and signal light). This set is extendable if you decide to do so in the future, which is great.

Recommend it, best train set for around (...).

Thomas Train a Really Useful and FUN Engine
This Thomas the Train set is a huge hit with the 3 kids in our house: my girls, ages 2 and 4, and my husband!The interlocking track is easy enough for my youngest daughter to attach (and detach, which she prefers to do).The trains run on the track, on the floor, and even the carpet (slowly).The drawbridge works like a charm.My oldest loves the lever to stop one train (usually to cause a wreck with another oncoming train).The set comes with Thomas and cars Annie and Clarabel.Toys R Us had a sale, so we also bought a Percy, Gordon, and James.It's a good thing we did!Christmas Day my husband had trouble releasing the catch to install the batteries in Thomas and Percy.The instructions (graphics only, no words) were no help at all.Fortunately the batteries in Gordon and James are easily installed into their coal cars.We took the Thomas and Percy back to the store for help.We like this set so much we plan to buy additional track.

Hundreds of Hours of Fun
My 7-year old son still continues to play with this set and all the other related Thomas sets we have.We started collecting these pieces when he was 3 years old.He's been able to put this track together in so many different ways with little or no help from the start.He has a huge toybox full of this train set now.After 4 years, 2 of our 3 bridges broke after being stepped on.We have glued one back together and now it works just fine.None of the bridges have their sides anymore, but the trains work just fine and stay on the tracks very well.Only one piece of track has ever broken, which says a lot for it's durability.You have to be a little careful with the trains with the tenders, i.e. attached second car, like Gordon, Henry, etc.(Not included in this set).The batteries are placed in the tender and 2 wires connect the train front to the tender.If these wires get pulled roughly, the train will no longer work.As I said though, we've had this set for over 4 years and only lost a handful of trains.My son no longer watches Thomas videos or cares to spend a "Day out with Thomas", but he continues to play with this train set and ask for the newest pieces for Christmas and birthdays.We don't mind buying them either.It's a worthwhile gift to buy as it is durable and gets a lot of use. ... Read more

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

Editorial Review

When Thomas the Tank Engine and friends get dirty after a long day's work, they can headstraight for the Sodor Engine Wash. This 6-inch-tall wooden building snaps directly into your Thomas theTank Engine railway system. Just drive the engines up to the building, turn the large red knob on the roof,and the blue foam grips will pull the engines through the wash in either direction. The Sodor Engine Washhas a smooth black roof with a silver water tank perched on top and brick facades with fancy archways oneither side. This handsome and durable structure will add lots of interest to your Thomas the Tank Enginerailway system. --Elisabeth Fredrickson ... Read more

Reviews (11)

Preston's Mommy and #1 Play Pal
My son loves to play with the Thomas the Tank Engine wooden track and vehicles-he is 2 1/2 and makes believe that Percy gets all dirty (like in the video) and drives him through the engine wash. He is very creative when playing with his Thomas toys and keeps him busy for hours.The colors are bright and with the numbers on the engines, he is very eager to count and they have also helped with learning his colors!

Excellent addition to my son's collection, he loves it!
My son is 4 and 3/4 years old, and received the engine wash for his third birthday.He has had no difficulty operating it, and it is holding up wonderfully.The foam wash rollers look just like new after having countless trains run through them.There are a few pieces that may get caught up a bit but it's quite easy to release them by giving them a little push from behind.

The same engine wash is part of the local toy store's set, which obviously gets tons of wear.It is holding up very well, and is clearly a favorite of the children who sample it at the store.

I would highly recommend this piece to any Thomas enthusiast age 3 and up.I can imagine it may be challenging for a younger toddler to operate it, but it isn't intended for that age anyway.

Very fun
My son loves this! I don't know what people are talking about.The trains go through just fine, even a long line of them.My son is two and a half and very rough with his toys and I have never had a problem with this piece. it's one of his favorites. ... Read more

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