In Train Simulator Classic, the Midland Main Line (MML) is one of the most flexible and expansive routes in the library. As of January 5, 2026, players can choose between the focused official experience and a massive, interconnected network provided by third-party developer Just Trains.
📍 1. The Official Route: London – Bedford
This is the “gateway” to the MML, capturing the high-density commuter and express corridor known as the “BedPan” line.
- The St Pancras Hub: Features a high-detail recreation of London St Pancras International. You can operate from the high-level platforms (East Midlands Railway) or the low-level Thameslink platforms.
- Route Scope: A 55-mile (88 km) stretch that includes the Cricklewood Freight Facility and Luton Airport Parkway.
- Included Stock: Features the Class 319 EMU in First Capital Connect livery and the Class 66 diesel in EWS livery for freight duties.
🛤️ 2. The Just Trains MML Network
For those who want to drive hundreds of miles from London to the North, Just Trains offers a modular system where separate routes “snap together” to form a continuous line.
- Derby – Nottingham – Leicester: The central hub of the MML. This section is often used as the “bridge” between the London-based routes and the northern cities.
- Sheffield – Derby: Adds the northernmost reach of the line, including the complex approaches to Sheffield Midland.
- The “Master” Merge: Many community members use the “MML Combined” patch (available on the Steam Workshop), which allows you to drive from London St Pancras all the way to Sheffield in a single session, provided you own all the underlying DLC.
🛠️ Essential Enhancement: Armstrong Powerhouse (AP)
Because the base London – Bedford route was released several years ago, the MML Enhancement Pack from Armstrong Powerhouse is considered mandatory by the enthusiast community.
- Visuals & Audio: It replaces the legacy track, signals, and foliage textures. More importantly, it overhauls the sound and physics for the Class 43 HST and Class 222 Meridian, adding realistic engine groans and track joint clicks.
- Scenario Support: Most high-quality scenarios found on Alan Thomson Simulation or Backdated Trainsim require this enhancement pack to function.
📊 MML Route Comparison (Jan 2026)
| Feature | London – Bedford (Official) | Just Trains MML Network |
| Length | 55 Miles | 100+ Miles (Modular) |
| Key Terminus | London St Pancras | Sheffield / Nottingham |
| Best For | Suburban Commuter / EMR Express | Long-Distance Express / Freight |
| Complexity | High (London Traffic) | Medium (High-Speed Cruising) |
🛒 January 2026 Pricing
The official route is currently on sale as part of the Steam Winter Sale (ending today, Jan 5, 2026).
- MML: London – Bedford Add-On: $7.49 (75% off standard $29.99).
- Just Trains MML Extensions: Typically £19.99 (~$25.00) each on the Just Trains website.
- AP MML Enhancement Pack: £19.99 (~$25.00) via Armstrong Powerhouse.
