You might not know the name Rowland Emett, but if you have seen the 1968 film Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, you certainly know his work! In this guide I’ll show you how to find the world famous Emett Machines in Yorkshire. But, they’re only here for a short time so don’t miss out!
In this guide you will find an introduction to Rowland Emett and his work. Where to find the Emett Machines in Yorkshire, plus and introduction to the machines on display, including information about their roles in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.
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The World Famous Emett Machines
Before we delve into how to find the world famous Emett Machines in Yorkshire, here is a brief introduction to Rowland Emett and his work.
Who was Rowland Emett?
Frederick Rowland Emett was an English cartoonist and constructor of whimsical kinetic structures.
He was born in London in 1906, the son of a businessman and amateur inventor. His grandfather was Queen Victoria’s engraver.
Emett showed talent for drawing from an early age. He was well known at school for his caricatures, and drawings of vehicles and machinery.
He also had an early interest in mechanics, taking out a patent for a gramophone volume control at just 14 years old.
After World War II, Emett begun a career as a cartoonist. In 1951, his most famous steam locomotive cartoon, Nellie, was made into a kinetic sculpture using copper and mahogany. This unique creation was one of the most popular attractions at the Festival of Britian that year.
This success fuelled Emett to continue creating “things.” He turned to supervising the building of them and christened each with a silly and unusual name.
What was Rowland Emett famous for?
Rowland Emett is best known for the unique collection of “things” he created for the 1968 film, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.
He designed the elaborate inventions of Caractacus Potts, played by Dick Van Dyke.
The World Famous Emett Machines in Yorkshire
So, if you’re ready to seek out the world famous Emett Machines in Yorkshire, here is everything you need to know about finding them.
Where can I find Emett Machines in Yorkshire?
There are currently six Emett machines on display on the upper level of the Merrion Centre in Leeds city centre.
Why are there Emett Machines in Leeds?
The Merrion Centre was built, and is still owned by, Town Centre Securities plc.
Arnold Ziff was the founder of Town Centre Securities and was fascinated by Emett’s creations. As the two became close friends, some of the Emett Machines came into Ziff’s possession. This firm friendship and direct connection made the Merrion Centre the perfect place to display the Emett Machine exhibition in Yorkshire!
How to see the World Famous Emett Machines in the Merrion Centre
Here’s everything you need to know about visiting the Emett Machines in the Merrion Centre. Including where to find them and the best times to visit.
Where are the World Famous Emett Machines in the Merrion Centre?
The exhibition is located on the upper balcony level of the Merrion Centre. So, once you enter the shopping centre, navigate your way to the first floor.
You will find the Emett Machines at the south end of the building (above the entrance closest to St John’s Centre) adjacent to the NHS Clinic.
When are the Emett Machines on in the Merrion Centre?
For the most memorable experience, you will want to time your visit when the Emett Machines are switched on and fully animated.
The machines are turned on each hour, on the hour. They run for ten minutes before they are switched off again.
Make sure you see them within this ten-minute window to fully appreciate the ingenuity of these one-of-a-kind creations!
Which Emett Machines are at the Merrion Centre?
There is an impressive total of six Emett Machines on display in the Merrion Centre.
You will find information boards telling you more about each machine, but here is a quick overview to give you a taster of what is in store!
The Humbug Major Sweet Machine
This was the largest Emett machine with a starring role in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.
It was pivotal to the plot, thanks to accidentally producing ‘Toot Sweets’ made with sugar that was too hot. This discovery went on to change the fortunes of Caractacus Potts.
The Little Dragon Carpet Sweeper
This little friendly face will also be familiar to Chitty Chitty Bang Bang fans!
The Little Dragon Carpet Sweeper was not so successful for Caractacus Potts, however. He has a habit of sucking up an entire rug, rather than just the dust that is on it!
The Fairway Birdie
The Fairway Birdie was commissioned for Arnold Ziff of Town Centre Securities plc in 1983.
Since its creation, it has made appearances at two golf championships, including the Open Golf Tournament in Troon, Scotland in 1983.
Emmett Television/Visivision Machine
The Visivision Machine does appear in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, but only briefly.
The machine is Emett’s imagining of how a television would have appeared, had it been invented in the Edwardian era.
The Hot Air Rocking Chair
There were five copies of the Hot Air Rocking Chair created. This is the largest number of any of the Emett Machines.
The chair appears in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang in the scene where Caractacus Potts discovers Toot Sweets.
The Clockwork Lullabye Machine
In contrast to the Humbug Major Sweet Machine, the Clockwork Lullabye Machine was the smallest machine used in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.
This creation was used to help send the twins to sleep by playing music from Brahms’ Lullabye.
How long are the Emett Machines at the Merrion Centre?
The Emett Machines exhibition at the Merrion Centre Leeds is running until 31st December 2026.
So, make sure you don’t miss the opportunity to see these fascinating creations while they are on display!
Do I need to pay to see the Emett Machines at the Merrion Centre?
There is no admission fee to see the Emett Machines in the Merrion Centre. It is completely free to visit the exhibition.
Other places to see Emett Machines
Unfortunately, there are few Emett Machines on public display in the UK. While there are a handful of permanent exhibitions in North America, here are the only opportunities to see the machines in the UK:
- There is a permanent exhibition of Emett’s work at Stoneywish Nature reserve in Ditchling, East Sussex
- The Aqua Horological Tintinnabulator, Emett’s water-powered musical clock in installed at the Victoria Centre in Nottingham
- Cats Cradle Pussiewillow III is another clock, which is on display at Eastgate Shopping Centre in Basildon
And of course, a re-watch of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang will highlight some of the best-loved Emett Machines!
Before you go
So, here is your guide to finding the Emett Machines in Yorkshire. Will you be heading to the Merrion Centre to pay them a visit?
If you want to discover more incredible Hidden Yorkshire locations, see here for the complete series.
And if you’re itching for even more Yorkshire adventures, check out the Ultimate Yorkshire Bucket List. This comprehensive guide contains over 100 must-see Yorkshire sights, plus handy checklists to keep track of your adventures!
Until our next adventure,
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Hello, I’m Hannah! I’m a writer and photographer who loves experiencing the wonders of Yorkshire. My guides will help you escape from your daily routine by showing you that you don’t have to go far to find an adventure.
These “things” are so cute!!! 🤩🤩🤩
Aren’t they adorable? Who knew a vacuum cleaner could look so cute! 😱