How far apart should telegraph poles be on N and OO/HO gauge layouts?

Telegraph poles are a common feature on model railway layouts, as they can add a touch of realism and authenticity to the scene. The distance between telegraph poles can vary depending on the scale of a particular layout.

For N gauge layouts, which have a scale of 1:148, the distance between telegraph poles should be approximately 50 to 60 feet (15 to 18 meters) in real life. In N gauge, this translates to approximately 5 to 6 inches (12.5 to 15 centimetres) on a layout. This spacing allows for a realistic representation of the poles without overcrowding the scene.

On the other hand, OO gauge layouts have a scale of 1:76, whilst HO gauge layouts have a scale of 1:87. For either of these options, the distance required would be approximately 12 to 15 inches (30 to 38 centimetres) on a layout.

It's worth noting that these measurements are approximate and can be adjusted based on personal preferences and the specific needs of the layout. Additionally, a modeller may want to consider the height of the telegraph poles, ensuring they are proportional to the distance between them and the overall scale of your layout.