Amazing layout Simon, spent the last hour reading through the thread after seeing your layout in a youtube video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rfzDcv5W6XY if you were wondering). The video really didn’t show the full extent of the great job you’ve done though to it’s fullest until I found this thread with a bit of googling.
I’ve had in the back of my mind for the last couple of years a similar idea but using Warhammer Dwarfs instead but had the same doubts you originally had about if people would not think it “proper” or “standard” and thus not like it. From this thread, your awards and the great feedback you’ve had it seems those doubt were unfounded and you’ve produced an absolutely great and unique layout.
Like others have said, the quality of the modelling either makes or breaks idea’s like this but you’ve easily captured the feel of Hobbiton and made it believable. Being a relative newbie myself at the hobby I think I’ll stick to keeping my first layout as “standard” 00 gauge railway to make sure my skills are up to par and keep in the back of my mind my dwarven layout idea for building in the future date. Hobbiton End has been a great inspiration though about how it is possible to achieve with the right modelling skills and imagination put behind it.
Was wondering if you were at any shows south-east way anytime in the future, would love to see your layout in person.
Keep up the good work ,
Mitch