The House of Automata — Attraction in Scotland

Insanely cool. Small building but that makes it easier to take in the automatons, you aren't overwhelmed by places to go/what to look at etc As a few other reviews say, we spent about 2 hours looking at the exhibits which are gorgeously presented and many have detailed information sheets depicting their history or making. Many of the automatons have buttons or cranks which can be pulled/pushed/turned (with care!) to begin their motions. There are signs indicating where particular caution is to be used when running automaton. Very kid friendly, there is a gift shop that caters both to child, teen, and adult interests. A "mini automaton search" activity is offered to both adults and children (hints are avaliable if you get stuck and there is a reward at the end!) The staff are both knowledgeable and friendly. Just before we left, we had a very pleasant conversation with one of the employees where we were presented with the opportunity to try our hand at solving some puzzles. A very lovely experience, my entire family had an amazing time (grandparents, parents, younger sister, and myself) and I would love to take my friends here...

What a delightful and special place! We visited on a whim after randomly seeing a brochure somewhere and absolutely loved the experience. The automata were truly fascinating (from peaceful musical dioramas to slightly unsettling moving dolls and funny vintage animals, many of which you can start yourself by pressing a button), but the real highlight of the day were the owners, who made us feel very welcome, and showed us even some of the more fragile pieces in action. You can really tell that this museum/workshop is loved and cared for.

There is also a little extra activity prepared, where you try to find some tiny models hidden in the display cabinets - first of all, by inspecting the exhibits more carefully you find many details you might have otherwise missed, and second, the utter joy you experience upon finding the last hidden model! What a brilliant idea.

If you ever find yourself in the area, make sure to pay this charming...

Here is an amazing world-class collection of mechanical marvels. From tiny fingernail-sized figures to a life-sized pretty French girl busy sewing. Some exhibits are ancient, but so clever. Plenty of items are in the open for people to enjoy, unconfined by a glass case. For the curious, there are plenty of chances to see the inner secrets of once-forgotten mechanisms. You can operate the head of a ventriloquist's doll, and set in motion all manner of animated figures. There's a fine shop to, for a range of happy memories. This is a great way to spend a...