Explore the UK's largest collection of rare automata—lifelike moving machines blending art and technology in an interactive, hands-on museum experience.
The House of Automata showcases over 200 antique and modern automata, ingenious mechanical devices that imitate life and nature through intricate engineering and artistry. Visitors of all ages can interact with many rare pieces by pressing buttons and scanning QR codes to see fragile automata in action, making it both entertaining and educational. The venue offers multiple ways to experience its collection. The main exhibition allows 1-2 hours of self-guided exploration through specially curated displays. For a more immersive experience, visitors can attend The Saturday Salon, held on the last Saturday of each month at 2:30 pm, featuring live performances of antique automata in a charming 19th-century salon atmosphere with behind-the-scenes workshop access. Private tours called The Automata Experience provide one-hour guided demonstrations of the finest pieces with exclusive workshop visits. Beyond the exhibition, The House of Automata operates a gift shop filled with automata kits, music boxes, puzzle boxes, magic items, and technical curiosities suitable for all ages. The venue also features visible restoration work using traditional techniques and materials, allowing visitors insight into the preservation of these remarkable machines. Located on Forres' historic High Street in Scotland, it's a unique attraction combining mechanical innovation, historical preservation, and interactive learning.
Explore the UK's largest collection of rare automata—lifelike moving machines blending art and technology in an interactive, hands-on museum experience.
The House of Automata showcases over 200 antique and modern automata, ingenious mechanical devices that imitate life and nature through intricate engineering and artistry. Visitors of all ages can interact with many rare pieces by pressing buttons and scanning QR codes to see fragile automata in action, making it both entertaining and educational. The venue offers multiple ways to experience its collection. The main exhibition allows 1-2 hours of self-guided exploration through specially curated displays. For a more immersive experience, visitors can attend The Saturday Salon, held on the last Saturday of each month at 2:30 pm, featuring live performances of antique automata in a charming 19th-century salon atmosphere with behind-the-scenes workshop access. Private tours called The Automata Experience provide one-hour guided demonstrations of the finest pieces with exclusive workshop visits. Beyond the exhibition, The House of Automata operates a gift shop filled with automata kits, music boxes, puzzle boxes, magic items, and technical curiosities suitable for all ages. The venue also features visible restoration work using traditional techniques and materials, allowing visitors insight into the preservation of these remarkable machines. Located on Forres' historic High Street in Scotland, it's a unique attraction combining mechanical innovation, historical preservation, and interactive learning.