Discover the exciting history of Gretna Green
Fall in love with a story of love, romance and scandal, learn about the Gretna Green wedding traditions and take in the story of the Famous Blacksmiths Shop and the iconic blacksmith's marriage anvil.
Gretna Green since 1754 carries a rich, romantic history like no other place on earth. A destination famed for love & romance and a place for lovers to elope and marry without their parent’s consent, the legend of Gretna Green has entered folklore and become a true cultural phenomenon.
Take a look at the most interesting, iconic elements of its history below.
THE FAMOUS BLACKSMITHS SHOP
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When run-away weddings began in 1754, the Blacksmiths Shop was the first building couples reached in Gretna Green. Read about its rich, romantic history. |
TRADITIONS OF A GRETNA GREEN WEDDING
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Famous for run-away ‘elopement’ weddings where couples would flee the scorn of their parents to join hearts over the iconic blacksmith's marriage anvil, learn about the traditions of a Gretna Green wedding. |
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WHY LOVERS FLEE TO GRETNA GREEN
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It all came down to law, luck and a happy accident of geography. Find out why lovers would flee to Gretna Green to get married. |
GRETNA GREEN CHRONOLOGY
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Take a look at the timeline of history, moments and defining points that made Gretna Green famous for love and marriage. |
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FAMILY BUSINESS SINCE 1885
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Founded in 1885, after Hugh Mackie bought the Gretna Green Estate, see the story of how Gretna Green Ltd has blossomed into what it has today - a family business which has been at the heart of our small, world-renowned village, Gretna Green, for over 135 years.
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THREE HISTORIC WEDDING VENUES
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From the Famous Blacksmiths Shop to the magnificent, historic marriage house that is Gretna Hall and, more recently, since 1830, the Old Toll Bar, take a look at the heritage tale of three venues vying for lovers to unite them in matrimony. |
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VISIT GRETNA GREEN TO SEE IT ALL FIRST-HAND
Use the map above to get directions to Gretna Green Famous Blacksmiths Shop Attractions