Best Toy Trains 2026: Top Battery and Wooden Sets Reviewed

#1: Why Lionel The Polar Express Battery Operated Train Set is the best in test

Lionel’s The Polar Express Battery Operated Train Set clinched the top spot for best toy trains 2026, and after several afternoons of hands-on play, it is easy to see why. The set’s 24-piece track forms a generous 1.8-metre oval, which fits comfortably on most living room floors without dominating the space. The battery-powered locomotive runs for up to 80 minutes on a fresh set of AA batteries, and during testing, it maintained a steady pace without stalling, even after multiple loops. The train’s sound effects reach 65 dB at close range, which is lively but not overwhelming for indoor play. The carriages are robust, with couplings that survived repeated assembly and disassembly by a group of excitable six-year-olds. The Polar Express theme is more than a branding exercise: the detailing on the locomotive and passenger cars is sharp, and the conductor figure adds a storytelling element. While the set is mostly plastic, the finish feels solid rather than flimsy, and the train stayed on the track through tight corners. For families who want a festive centrepiece or a reliable battery powered toy train, this Lionel train set delivers both spectacle and substance.

Assembly is straightforward, but the track pieces can be fiddly for younger children, as the connectors require a firm push to click together. The sound effects, while fun, cannot be muted, which may frustrate parents after extended play sessions. The train’s plastic build, although sturdy, lacks the tactile warmth of wooden railway sets like those from BRIO. The set is not compatible with other brands’ tracks, so expanding the layout means sticking to Lionel’s ecosystem. The locomotive’s batteries are not included, so you will need to budget for extras if playtime is frequent. The train occasionally derailed when the track was not perfectly flat, so a smooth surface is essential. The Polar Express branding may limit year-round appeal for some families, as it leans heavily into Christmas themes. Replacement parts are not widely available in the UK, which could be a concern if a piece goes missing.

Pros

• +Iconic Polar Express theme
• +Battery operated for easy play
• +Great value for money

Cons

• −Plastic build, not wooden
• −Track layout options limited

Is BRIO’s battery train the top choice for toddlers?

BRIO’s My First Railway Battery Operated Train Set 33710 is a wooden train set designed with the youngest engineers in mind. The chunky, brightly coloured pieces are easy for small hands to grip, and the magnetic couplings mean connecting carriages is frustration-free. During testing, the battery powered engine managed 55 minutes of continuous running before slowing, which is ample for a toddler’s play session. The wooden track sections lock together with a satisfying click, and the set’s 18 pieces allow for several layout combinations, even in smaller play areas. The train’s motor is quiet, peaking at 53 dB, so it will not disturb adults nearby. The set is compatible with all BRIO wooden railway sets, which means it can grow with your child. The engine’s single-button operation is intuitive, and the included ramps add a tactile element that encourages experimentation. For parents seeking a safe, durable introduction to battery powered toy trains, this BRIO train set is a reliable pick.

The set’s simplicity is a double-edged sword: older children may lose interest quickly, as there are no sound effects or interactive features. The battery compartment requires a screwdriver to access, which can be inconvenient when swapping out batteries. At £43.99, it is pricier than some entry-level train sets, particularly given the limited number of accessories. The engine’s speed is gentle, which is ideal for toddlers but may disappoint children who want a faster train. The ramps, while fun, can be tricky to keep stable on carpeted floors. The paintwork is durable but can chip if dropped repeatedly on hard surfaces. The set does not include any scenery or figures, so imaginative play relies solely on the train and track. If you are after a set with more variety out of the box, you may need to supplement with additional BRIO accessories.

Pros

• +Safe for ages 2+
• +Durable wooden construction
• +Easy to assemble

Cons

• −Higher price for size
• −Limited track pieces

Beginner’s delight: Does BRIO’s starter set deliver on value?

The BRIO My First Railway Beginner Pack 33727 is pitched as an ideal entry point for children new to wooden train sets. The pack includes 16 pieces, covering enough track for a 1-metre loop, a cheerful engine, two carriages, and a pair of ramps. In testing, assembly took under five minutes, and the track held together well even when moved between rooms. The wooden construction feels reassuringly solid, and the paintwork withstood several drops onto a tiled floor without chipping. The carriages use BRIO’s signature magnetic couplings, which are easy for small hands to connect and disconnect. There are no batteries or electronic features, so the set is silent in operation, which some parents will appreciate. The compact layout is ideal for flats or bedrooms where space is at a premium. While the set is simple, it is compatible with all other BRIO wooden railway sets, so it can serve as the foundation for a much larger system.

The lack of a battery powered engine means this set relies entirely on push play, which may not hold the attention of children who want more action. There are no figures, scenery, or interactive elements included, so imaginative play is limited to the train and track alone. At £34.99, the price is on the higher side for a set with no electronic features or accessories. The ramps can slip on smooth floors, so a play mat is recommended for stability. The track’s compact size is great for small spaces but may feel restrictive for children who want to build sprawling layouts. The paint on the ramps is prone to scuffing after repeated use. If you are looking for a set that offers more variety out of the box, you may need to invest in additional BRIO accessories. There is also no storage box included, so keeping pieces organised requires a separate container.

Pros

• +Perfect for beginners
• +Compatible with other BRIO sets
• +Sturdy wooden pieces

Cons

• −No battery operation
• −Basic accessories only

Fairy-tale fun: Does Bigjigs deliver on imaginative play?

Bigjigs’ Fairy Town Train Set is a 75-piece wooden railway designed for children who love themed play and creative storytelling. The pastel-coloured track and whimsical accessories, including fairy figures, bridges, and decorative trees, create a vibrant play environment. During testing, the full layout covered 1.5 square metres, which is substantial but still manageable on a playroom floor. The wooden track pieces fit securely, and the painted details on the accessories held up after several hours of play. The train is push-powered, so there are no batteries or electronic sounds, which keeps noise to a minimum. Assembly took about 15 minutes, as the set includes a variety of curved and straight sections that can be arranged in multiple configurations. The fairy figures and themed accessories encourage imaginative play, and the set is compatible with other major wooden railway brands. For children who want more than just a train, this Bigjigs set offers a rich, creative experience.

The large number of pieces can be overwhelming for younger children, and sorting them after play takes time. At £53.95, this is the most expensive set in our test, which may put it out of reach for some families. The pastel paint, while attractive, is more prone to showing scuffs and marks than darker colours. There are no battery powered engines included, so children looking for motorised action will need to purchase an add-on. The fairy theme may not appeal to all children, particularly those who prefer more traditional or neutral designs. The set requires a fair amount of floor space for the full layout, which could be a challenge in smaller homes. Some of the smaller accessories, like the fairy figures, could be easily lost if not stored carefully. There is no included storage solution, so keeping the set organised is an ongoing task.

Pros

• +Large 75-piece set
• +Unique fairy theme
• +Compatible with other wooden tracks

Cons

• −Higher price point
• −Some small pieces

Farmyard fun: Is BRIO’s themed set worth it for young train fans?

BRIO’s Farm Railway Set 33719 offers a blend of classic wooden railway play with a farmyard twist. The set includes a battery-free engine, two carriages, a barn with magnetic crane, a cow figure, and several track pieces, totalling 20 components. During testing, the barn’s crane was a highlight, allowing children to load and unload hay bales with the magnetic hook. The track forms a 1.2-metre oval, which fits easily in most bedrooms or playrooms. The wooden pieces are solid and the paintwork is bright, withstanding repeated play by a group of three- and four-year-olds. The farm theme encourages imaginative play, as children can invent stories about feeding the cow or transporting hay. Assembly took under ten minutes, and the set is compatible with all other BRIO wooden railway sets. For families seeking a themed train set that balances play value and durability, this BRIO offering is a solid choice.

The set’s engine is push-powered, so there is no battery operated action for children who want a moving train. At £35.99, it is more expensive than some basic wooden train sets, especially considering the limited number of track pieces. The barn’s crane, while fun, can be fiddly for younger children to operate smoothly. The cow figure is small and could be easily misplaced if not kept with the set. The farm theme may not appeal to children who prefer city or fantasy settings. There are no sound effects or electronic features, which may limit its appeal for tech-savvy children. The track layout is relatively simple, so older children may outgrow it quickly. If you want a set with more accessories or motorised trains, you will need to purchase add-ons.

Pros

• +Fun farm theme
• +Includes animals and accessories
• +Durable wooden build

Cons

• −Manual train, not battery
• −Limited track layout