Hornby R636 OO Gauge Level Crossing Double Track extra track pieces (Black)

The essentials

If you’re building up an OO gauge layout, it’s rarely the big decisions that slow you down. It’s the fiddly need for the right track accessory at the right moment. The Hornby R636 Level Crossing Double Track is designed to be one of those “drop it in and move on” pieces, so you can extend an existing Hornby twin-track setup and add a proper level crossing scene without rethinking everything.

On paper, this is an easy-expansion style track element: it gives you a level crossing on a double track section, and it’s supplied as extra track pieces for model railway sets. That combination matters if your main goal is simply to add interest and complexity where you already have a working track plan, rather than starting from scratch.

Where it stands out in practice

The big draw here is the level crossing itself, created as a track-mounted accessory. You’re not just adding a visual feature off to the side, it’s built into the track geometry so it can help your layout feel more “complete”. It’s the kind of piece that can turn an otherwise functional run-around or yard approach into something with story.

A nice detail is that it comes with traditional gates (as shown) as well as alternative modern barriers. That gives you some flexibility if you’re trying to match a period look, or if you prefer a more contemporary crossing style for your layout.

A micro use case

Imagine you’ve already laid straight double-track sections, and you want a crossing to break up the visual monotony near a road. Adding the R636 lets you place a crossing segment as part of the track run, then dress the surrounding scene with a road and fencing. You get a recognisable focal point without having to model the crossing infrastructure from scratch.

Key points to consider before buying

Worth noting: the description specifies that the track is mounted into the base at intervals to suit standard Hornby twin-track geometry. That’s reassuring if your layout follows that approach, but it also means this may not be the easiest choice if your track plan is based on a different geometry or a mixed system.

Also, while the gates and alternative barriers are included, the piece is still an “extra track” accessory. If you’re expecting a full, ready-to-use crossing build with extra scenery components beyond the barriers, you may find it a bit more limited than a larger scene kit.

What you’ll notice day to day

The R636 is a black, double crossing track element built from materials intended for long-lasting performance. In real-world layout building, the practical benefit is straightforward: it’s made to be used as part of a layout expansion, not just displayed. If you like making changes over time—adding a new road crossing one weekend, then tweaking the surrounding track the next—this kind of accessory tends to fit that workflow.

There’s also a strong “value” angle if you already own Hornby OO gauge track. Rather than approaching every change like a brand-new project, you can keep expanding with compatible pieces.

Tech summary

Tech specs

• Name: Hornby R636 OO Gauge Level Crossing Double Track
• Type: OO gauge model railway track piece / level crossing accessory
• Format: Double crossing track piece, track mounted into the base
• Size: Measuring 168mm in length
• Colour: Black
• Scale: 1:76

Is it worth it?

It’s a good fit if you want an easy way to add a level crossing to an existing Hornby OO gauge double-track layout, and you’re happy working with standard Hornby twin-track geometry. The included traditional gates and alternative modern barriers are a sensible bonus if you like choosing the look of your crossing.

You may want to skip it if your layout doesn’t align with Hornby twin-track geometry, or if you’re after a broader crossing scenery kit rather than a track-mounted crossing segment. For people who want to start from zero, it’s probably more efficient to begin with a fuller track plan and crossing design rather than relying on an extra piece to do the heavy lifting.

Mini FAQ

Usage tips

Will it fit a Hornby twin-track layout?

The product description states it suits standard Hornby twin-track geometry, so it’s designed with that in mind.

Does it include different barrier styles?

Yes. It’s supplied with traditional gates (as shown) and alternative modern barriers.

How long is the crossing piece?

It measures 168mm in length.

Is it only for experienced modellers?

Not necessarily. The accessory is positioned for both beginners and experienced enthusiasts who want convenient expansion options.