Hornby TT:120 Pullman First Class Kitchen Car ‘Rosamund’ – A Touch of Luxury in Miniature

Bringing the prestige of Britain’s most distinguished rail journeys to TT:120 scale, the Hornby Pullman First Class Kitchen Car ‘Rosamund’ captures the refinement and grace of first-class dining from the golden age of rail travel. Introduced in 1924, ‘Rosamund’ is presented in the classic Pullman umber and cream livery, complete with intricate lining and the iconic Pullman coat of arms, all reproduced with exquisite detail.

Whether gliding along an express or waiting at a platform in a stately formation, ‘Rosamund’ adds a sense of heritage and splendour to any TT:120 layout.

Model Features:

• Finished in authentic Pullman livery with precise lining and crisp lettering

• Detailed First Class interior, including elegant table settings and wood-panelled effect

• Ideal for combining with other Hornby TT:120 Pullman coaches for a realistic rake

• Perfect companion for steam or early diesel haulage, recreating historical Pullman services

A Legacy of Fine Travel

Pullman carriages first appeared on British railways in 1874, initially imported from the United States and operated by the Midland Railway between Bradford Forster Square and London St Pancras. Inspired by the luxurious vision of George Pullman, the Pullman Car Company was established in 1882, quickly becoming a byword for elegance and excellence in rail travel.

Pullman trains offered passengers a superior travel experience: at-table steward service, fine dining, and comfort that rivalled high-end hotels. Kitchen Cars, like ‘Rosamund’, were central to this experience—equipped to prepare and serve freshly cooked meals, accompanied by white linen, gleaming crockery, and silverware.

Though Great Western Railway initially resisted Pullman stock, all of the ‘Big Four’ railway companies eventually operated Pullman services on their principal long-distance routes.

Named in line with the Pullman tradition of giving First Class vehicles classical names, ‘Rosamund’ exemplified the high standards of craftsmanship and comfort associated with the Pullman brand.

Into Preservation and Beyond

By the time the British Transport Commission acquired the Pullman Car Company in 1954, many of the original vehicles were ageing. The 1955 Modernisation Plan introduced new rolling stock and diesel or electric haulage to keep Pullman services relevant. Yet, despite modernisation efforts, the service slowly declined, and the last Pullman trains under British Rail were withdrawn in 1972.

With its finely rendered features and deep historical significance, the Hornby TT:120 Pullman Kitchen Car ‘Rosamund’ brings timeless elegance to your layout—perfect for collectors and modellers looking to recreate the high society glamour of British rail’s most luxurious era.