RC Shop in Bournemouth/Christchurch area

[Peter_B 997]

Does anybody know of any RC shops (Tamiya stockists) in the Bournemouth/Christchurch area?

For all you folks from NZ - I mean Christchurch UK

[berman 5317]

I am just impressed you know there is a NZ equivalent! I could rattle off the hobby shops in Chch nz though, first thing I looked for when I last went down there... and then the quake damage... I am a bad, bad man 😳

[Jonathon Gillham 4709]

I was thinking you should order from acorn models, you know, help the economy out post quake

[Prescient 675]

Hi Peter, 

Sorry to break it to you but there isn't one anymore locally to Dorset. Westbourne Models has a very a small outlet the size of a broom cupboard but it's not got any Tamiya nor any real RC stuff in and basically there to clear old stock or sell the odd boat. Channel 4 Models/Lesro Models etc have all closed. The other model shops are model railway, static kit based. 

Nearest Tamiya dealer is AC Models in Eastleigh but they only hold a few kits and are full RRP usually. Full selection of paints though and call first as they have a staffing shortage so odd opening times. Mainly Planes n Trains in Gosport have a few well priced kits and are also well priced for electrics, chargers, batteries, paints etc. 

Endless Models in Salisbury has a few but worth a call.

There are a few other model shops dotted around in Portsmouth but these deal with trains or RTR from HPI etc.

Apex Models up in Sandhurst has a few bits but their website is not reflective of stock they actually hold.

RC Geeks near Gatwick is pretty good.

Jadlam Toys and Models near Wells is good.

Beyond that Addlestone Model Centre just off the M25 (end of M3) is the nearest big dealer. See photo.

Swindon Model Centre has a few kits and bits but is expensive. Antics Bristol has very little Tamiya.

Sadly, that is the south pretty much covered bar static, trains, drones and aeroplanes.

[Peter_B 997]

@Prescient wow thanks for the detailed run down.

Looks like I won't be saying "oh look a model shop, shall we go in" on this holiday

[Prescient 675]

4 hours ago, Peter_B said:

@Prescient wow thanks for the detailed run down.

Looks like I won't be saying "oh look a model shop, shall we go in" on this holiday

Of course, if you have enough cash there are always the underground traders locally.

[SNAKEBITE 40]

Adding to Prescient's post I'd add Sussex Models in Worthing, but obviously not a holiday diversion!

Quite a lot of stuff but the witty banter and customer interaction is non existent.

They mainly communicate in grunts!