About Us

Ian Allan Publishing is a dynamic family owned specialist publisher with a long and rich history.

In 1942 Ian Allan published his first ground-breaking book - abc of Southern Locomotives - and from this initial success a company was formed. These little number recognition books first started the trend of 'trainspotting' and have gone on to form the bedrock of the company. A very young Ian Allan (left) is seen here sorting out a problem with an engine driver at Waterloo in 1944.

Since then the company has gone from strength to strength as a leading independent publisher of books. In 2012 the company celebrated 70 years in the business. During this time it has grown from a small producer of books for train enthusiasts and spotters to a dedicated transport publisher producing high quality illustrated titles on an enormous range of largely transport related subjects.

Ian Allan Publishing produces over 40 books every year across a wide area of enthusiast subjects. As well as having the biggest and most respected names in the industry as our authors, we also have a reputation for seeking out talented new authors and fascinating new subjects. Across our imprints, Ian Allan Publishing, OPC and Classic Publications, the company continues to be the market leader in specialist publishing.

Ian Allan Direct is the name for our retail arm. Our service offers customers the chance to buy online, by telephone and by post. You can even to pop into one of our dedicated transport bookshops, all of which are conveniently located at major rail centres. Please click the 'Our Shops' link on the left to see a list of our locations.

Lewis Masonic is the oldest Masonic Publisher is the world having been founded in 1886. Part of Ian Allan Publishing since 1973 it not only continues to be the largest supplier of Masonic Rituals but has also gained the reputation for publishing must read historical and informative titles across the Masonic spectrum.

We are constantly striving to develop and improve our company and we know how the name “Ian Allan” will mean many things to many people. Whether you have grown up with us, or you are just finding us for the first time, we would love to hear from you and any feedback or ideas you may have. 

Click here for locations and here for contact details.

We are delighted to welcome you to this website, which is a user-friendly showcase of our many outstanding products and services. Hours of fascinating browsing await you, and when you want to purchase your books you can be assured of secure on-line ordering facilities and the very best in customer care. You can also join us on Facebook and Twitter to keep abreast of all the latest publications and promotions, and of course we will keep you updated on where we will be attending shows and exhibitions.