The Emett Machines
Marvellous machines, back where they belong
Does the Merrion Centre bring back childhood memories of visiting to see the ‘Flying Kite’ in the 1960s? Seven of the famous Emett Machines are on show for a new generation to discover.
Created by cartoonist and inventor Rowland Emett in the 1960s, these unique pieces of historical working art were designed to help people do impossible things. Several appeared in the cult film Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.
- When
- On show now
- Where
- Upper balcony level
- Entry
- Free
Part of our history
Arnold Ziff, founder of Town Centre Securities PLC, who built and still own the Merrion Centre, became fascinated by the machines and close friends with Emett.
The “Featherstone-Kite Openwork Basketweave Mark Two Gentleman’s Flying Machine”, part of this exhibition, was once on permanent display here in a glass cabinet. It was set going every 30 minutes and entertained audiences for years.
Where to find them
All seven machines are on show upstairs on the upper balcony level, though not all of them are currently working. They are:
- The Featherstone-Kite Openwork Basketweave Mark Two Gentleman’s Flying Machine
- The Humbug Major Sweet Machine
- The Little Dragon Carpet Sweeper
- The Fairway Birdie
- Emett Television/Visivision Machine
- The Hot Air Rocking Chair
- The Clockwork Lullabye Machine
Good to know
- The upper balcony level can be reached by lift or escalator. The viewing area there is restricted for people with limited mobility.
- Exhibits may vary depending on the space available in the centre.
- We try to keep every machine in full working order, but some may not be running at times because of maintenance.
We look forward to welcoming you to see the ‘fantasmagorical’ Emett Machines!
Coming by car?
Park for up to 24 hours for just £7
Pre-book at CitiPark Merrion Centre and enter code MERRION247.
See parking offer