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Il Trenino by Thomas & Friends

In a nutshell: Thomas the Tank Engine is one of the best-loved children's characters in the world, with a history spanning more than 80 years.

In this guide you'll find the names and traits of all the main characters, the values the series passes on to children and how to enjoy your love of Thomas the Tank Engine off the screen, too.

  • Who Thomas the Tank Engine is and how the character came about
  • The main characters: names, colours and personalities
  • The educational values of the series
  • How to experience Thomas the Tank Engine in real life

Who is Thomas the Tank Engine?

Thomas the Tank Engine is a blue steam engine with a big smile and an endless desire to be useful. He lives on the Island of Sodor with many other engines, each with a unique personality. The series was created in 1945 by the Reverend Wilbert Awdry, who invented the stories to comfort his sick son.

Since then, Thomas & Friends has become a global phenomenon: books, cartoons, films, games, collectible model trains and a fan base that spans generations, from children aged 2 to 6 to parents and grandparents who love real trains.

 

The main Thomas the Tank Engine characters

 

Thomas

The blue engine with the number 1. He is curious, enthusiastic and sometimes a little impulsive, but he has a big heart and always wants to do the right thing. His line is Thomas' Branch Line. He is the undisputed star of the series.

 

Edward

The blue engine with the number 2. He is the wisest and most patient of the group, always ready to help the others. Children adore him for his kindness and even temper.

 

Gordon

The big blue engine with the number 4, the most powerful on the island. He is a little pompous and proud of his role as the express engine, but deep down he is reliable and loyal. Older children often identify with him.

 

James

A bright red engine with the number 5. He is vain and proud of his shiny paintwork, but also generous when it matters. His stories are often used to talk to children about vanity and humility.

 

Percy

A small green engine with the number 6. He is Thomas's best friend: shy, affectionate and always willing to help. Younger children easily relate to him.

 

Emily

An emerald green engine and the only female among the original main characters. She is capable, determined and often more organised than the boys. An important role model for girls who love the series.

 

Toby

An old brown tram engine with the number 7. He is wise, kind and always knows how to calm tense situations. He represents experience and respect for elders.

 

Sir Topham Hatt

He isn't an engine, but he is the leading adult figure of the whole series. He oversees the running of the railway with authority and fairness, without ever being overly strict or punitive.

Thomas Day

The values Thomas the Tank Engine teaches children

 

It's no coincidence that Thomas the Tank Engine has endured for more than 80 years: the stories speak to children about core values in a concrete and accessible way.

  • Being useful: every engine has a specific job and does it with pride
  • Friendship: problems are solved together, not alone
  • Mistakes as opportunities: the characters often get things wrong, but they always learn something
  • Diversity: every engine is different in colour, shape and personality, and every difference is valuable
  • Responsibility: railway work teaches punctuality, precision and keeping your commitments

 

Thomas and real trains: a lasting passion

Many children who grow up with Thomas the Tank Engine develop a genuine interest in real trains, and that's no accident. The series is built on authentic technical knowledge of the railway world: types of engines, signals, stations and tracks.

If your family's love of trains is catching, at Leolandia you can experience it for real. The park is home to an attraction dedicated to Thomas the Tank Engine, where you can actually climb aboard the train pulled by the shiny blue engine. It's an experience designed for the youngest fans, but one that the whole family will enjoy. You'll also find other children's favourite cartoon characters around the park, along with the shows for children on the programme.

If your child loves Thomas the Tank Engine and his friends, bringing them to Leolandia is a gift they will never forget. Check the opening calendar to find the right date and buy your tickets online to avoid queues at the entrance.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How many characters are there in Thomas the Tank Engine?

Over the years the series has introduced dozens of characters. The original main characters number around a dozen (Thomas, Edward, Gordon, James, Percy, Toby, Emily and others), but more recent seasons have added engines from all over the world, bringing the total to more than 100 characters.

What age is Thomas the Tank Engine suitable for?

The series is mainly aimed at children aged 2 to 6. However, many children continue to love it up to the age of 8 or 9, especially those who are keen on real trains. There is also a community of adult collectors of the model trains.

What is Thomas the Tank Engine's real name?

The character is simply called Thomas; his full name is "Thomas the Tank Engine". The term "tank engine" refers to a specific type of steam locomotive that carries its water in tanks on the sides of its body, without a separate tender.

Where can you meet Thomas the Tank Engine in real life in Italy?

At Leolandia, in the province of Bergamo, there is an attraction dedicated to Thomas the Tank Engine where you can actually climb aboard the train and explore the Park. It is one of the few immersive Thomas experiences available in Italy.

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Last Updated

This page on accessibility was last updated on June 25, 2025.