Joshua Goldman
Joshua Goldman
min read · October 16, 2025 · Entertainment

Rock Star Rod Stewart Spies on His Model Railway's Journey!

Rock legend Sir Rod Stewart is seen here with one of his beloved model railway sets

ROD STEWART'S SECRET SPY CAM: THE ROCK STAR'S DETERMINED PROTECTIVE STANCE ON HIS MODEL RAILWAY SET

In a shocking revelation, Rod Stewart's wife Penny Lancaster has spilled the beans on her husband's secret obsession - his beloved model railway set. The 80-year-old rock legend, known for hits like "Sailing" and "Reason to Believe", went to extreme lengths to ensure the safe transportation of his prized possession from Los Angeles to their Grade II listed manor in Essex.

According to Lancaster, Sir Rod was "pacing around the living room" with worry as they contemplated how to move the intricate set, which took up the entire length of their LA loft space. The singer's wife described her husband as "most content" whenever working on his railway, hailing him as a "master at it".

The 80-year-old singer's wife Penny Lancaster, 54, has been speaking about his spy camera monitoring of workmen moving his LA railway set - they are seen here in May 2025 in London

The clever couple enlisted the help of staff who specialize in dismantling and transporting film sets, and even set up a spy camera to keep an eye on the proceedings. Lancaster revealed that Sir Rod was so invested in the process that he wanted to "watch it all" unfold.

"It was like a big production," she gushed to The Scholarly Note's Routes podcast. "We had containers, ships, and everything. It was quite an operation."

The model railway set, which is based on 1940s-50s America, takes pride of place in the couple's backyard, where it has been transported in large containers. Lancaster explained that their two sons, Alastair and Aiden, will get involved with the railway "just to get some extra pocket money", but their enthusiasm is yet to be matched by Sir Rod.

Sir Rod put in extra efforts to make sure his 900ft of track was safely transported 5,000 miles from his Los Angeles home to the musician's Grade II listed countryside manor in Essex

The rocker's love affair with model railways began years ago, when he would sneak into his workshop on tour for a few hours of creative bliss. He even had a separate room built in their LA home specifically for the hobby, which has since "taken over" his life.

"I mean, obviously music is my main life's work, but this is definitely second," Sir Rod confessed to Railway Modeller magazine last year, where he showcased his layout, dubbed "Grand Street & Three Rivers Railroad".

Lancaster's comments come as a surprise, given the rock star's previous admission that he was once embarrassed about his hobby. However, with his wife by his side, he has finally found the confidence to share his passion with the world.

His wife Penny Lancaster , 54, described how Sir Rod was 'pacing' around the living room before they came up with a plan to use staff who break up and transport film sets

The reunion of The Faces, which also includes guitarist Ronnie Wood, is also on the horizon. Wood revealed that they have been working in the studio and are planning a comeback, complete with fresh tracks. Their musical chemistry remains strong after half a century, and their fans can't wait for their next move.

With his model railway set safely transported to its new home, Sir Rod Stewart can now focus on what's next - possibly another chart-topping album or a reunion of one of rock music's most iconic bands. Whatever it is, one thing's for sure: the rocker has still got it going on at 80 years young.

AND THE SPOTLIGHT SHINES ON...

His intricately designed train sets have featured in magazines including Railway Modeller

Sir Rod Stewart's model railway set has been making headlines in recent months, but what about his other secret passion - film? The rock legend has spoken fondly of working with close friend and fellow train enthusiast Jools Holland, trading elements of their sets and sharing tips on how to create the perfect miniature world.

The two musicians' love of film is not new; they have been collaborating on various projects for years. However, it's Sir Rod's unique take on model railways that has captured the hearts of fans around the world.

From its intricate details to its meticulously planned layout, "Grand Street & Three Rivers Railroad" is a true masterpiece. And with his wife by his side, Sir Rod Stewart can now enjoy his prized possession in peace, knowing that it's been transported safely and with care.

Married couple Sir Rod Stewart and Penny Lancaster are seen on ITV's Loose Women in 2019

STAY TUNED FOR MORE ON SIR ROD STEWART'S MODEL RAILWAY SET

The Scholarly Note will continue to follow the story of Sir Rod Stewart's model railway set, bringing you updates on this fascinating hobby as it continues to captivate fans worldwide. Stay tuned for more behind-the-scenes insights into the rock legend's creative world and his beloved trains.