One of the most distinctive modern image multiple units to appear on UK rails – and on British model railways – returns! The hugely popular Kato Class 800 five-car units return to stock in LNER and GWR 'Paddington Bear' liveries, offering N gauge modellers the chance to add sleek centrepieces to their layouts.

Combining Kato’s renowned engineering quality with some of the best liveries to grace modern British trains, these models celebrate contemporary railway operation, and in the case of the GWR version, a much-loved cultural icon.

Priced from £194.96, Kato's five-car unit in GWR 'Paddington' livery offers a fabulous entry into present-day N gauge modelling. Explore all of these superb models, here.

Brief history

The Class 800 Intercity Express Train (IET) is a cornerstone of Great Western Railway’s modern fleet. Branded 'Azuma' for LNER services, the units were built for high-speed intercity services. These bi-mode units particularly transformed GWR operations by offering electric running where overhead wires are available, with diesel power taking over on non-electrified routes. This flexibility has allowed faster, quieter and more efficient services across the GWR network.

Since entering service, a number of GWR Class 800s have been officially named, following a long-standing railway tradition of commemorating figures closely connected with the regions served. The naming programme began on June 30, 2016, when 800004 was named after Isambard Kingdom Brunel and Sir Daniel Gooch, two engineering giants synonymous with the Great Western story.

This was followed by 800003, named in honour of Queen Elizabeth II and Queen Victoria, reflecting national heritage as well as regional pride. Perhaps the most instantly recognisable and widely loved of all, however, is unit 800010, named after Paddington Bear and his creator, Michael Bond.

Paddington Bear’s connection to the Great Western is both obvious and deeply ingrained in British culture. From his arrival at Paddington Station with a suitcase and a label reading “Please look after this bear”, Paddington has become inseparable from the station and, by extension, the Great Western route itself. Naming a flagship Class 800 after Paddington Bear was a natural and inspired choice, and one that immediately captured public imagination.

Kato's excellence in 'N'

Kato’s 1:148 scale (N gauge) representation of 800010 Paddington Bear brings this unique prototype to life with exceptional finesse. Designed to meet the expectations of discerning modern image modellers, the model combines accurate proportions, crisp decoration and Kato’s trademark running performance.

Finished in the contemporary GWR green livery, the set stands out thanks to its special Paddington Bear branding. The character’s name and imagery are faithfully applied, including the distinctive markings on the driver’s cab door that set this unit apart from standard-liveried Class 800s. These elements are reproduced with impressive sharpness, ensuring the model looks just as striking close-up as it does gliding around a layout.

Kato’s attention to body detail is immediately apparent, with finely rendered roof equipment, bodyside features and cab fronts all contributing to a convincing miniature of the real train. The overall effect is a model that feels both premium and authentic, perfectly suited to modern UK N gauge layouts.

Performance and operation

As expected from Kato, performance is a major strength with these models. Smooth-running wheelsets and a well-engineered drive system ensure excellent low-speed control and reliable operation, whether the units are cruising through scenic countryside or easing into a model representation of Paddington or King's Cross stations. Directional lighting adds an extra layer of realism, enhancing their presence during operation and giving the cab ends a lifelike appearance.

GWR sets consist of five permanently-coupled cars, with LNER sets consisting of nine cars, accurately reflecting the formation of the prototypes and providing substantial, impressive trains straight from their quality boxes.

The nine cars of LNER sets are sure to leave a lasting impression as they sail-by through a present-day East Coast Main Line scene. Get yours now, from £279.95.

 

Experience with sound

For those looking to add more realism, Kato offers optional upgrades with DCC fitted and DCC sound-fitted models, the latter featuring authentic sounds recorded from real Class 800 units.

Engine start-up, running sounds and operational effects help bring the units to life, making them more engaging for operators and spectators alike. Though optional, sound is a natural complement to these flagship models and is particularly effective when paired with the smooth, consistent running characteristics for which Kato models are known.

 

Don’t miss out

Demand for the first iterations of these models was strong, with previous batches selling through quickly. With these sets now in stock, this is an ideal opportunity to secure one while availability lasts.

Explore Kato's Class 800 models here, with Kato's forthcoming Class 803 'Lumo' sets, Class 802/3 Hull Trains units and 802/2 Transpennine Express units still available to pre-order.