Gretna Green's Famous Blacksmith Shop
On a recent visit to Scotland, I decided to break my journey by stopping at Gretna Green. What a brilliant decision - I won't ever stop at the service station nearby when I can stop somewhere like this.
Situated at the junction of several old coaching roads, The Famous Blacksmith Shop has been renowned for conducting runaway weddings since 1754, although the building itself dates back much further than that. It is now a museum, where you can experience the history and stories surrounding romantic events from the past to the present day. When the 1754 Marriage Act was passed in England and Wales, it prevented couples under 21 marrying without their parents permission. But this law didn't apply in Scotland, so couples began crossing the border to get wed - somewhere no-one could stop them. Depending on their financial status the Blacksmith would perform the ceremony for a wee dram or a few guineas.
One of the first places you arrive at when crossing into Scotland is Gretna Green and 2 places in particular, Gretna Hall Historic Marriage House & Hotel and the Famous Blacksmith's Shop soon became very popular with runaway couples.
The Wedding ceremony was performed by the "Blacksmith Priest", and after declaring the couple married, he would strike the legendary Marriage Anvil - forging or binding their lives together for eternity with an unbreakable bond. Although, in the past, these weddings were for runaway lovers; this setting is now the place for present day romantics, wanting somewhere less traditional to tie the knot. There are several different Wedding packages available at the Famous Blacksmith's Shop - but they all include the anvil.
A welcoming sign tells you what there is to offer; The Museum full of history and romance; The Food hall, and several different shops selling everything from quality fashion items and souvenirs to local delicacies and drinks.
Through the stone archway, and you enter a delightful courtyard with colourful plants, romantic sculptures and places to sit and enjoy the surroundings.
On walls everywhere there are notice boards telling stories of eloping couples who risked everything to escape their family, and find happiness being married at Gretna Green.
Whilst walking down these ornate walkways, stop and read some of the Information Boards.
One of the most iconic statues in the Courtyard, is the sculpture of the Two Hands - what an appropriate symbol this is.
Then to the right of this are the lovers dressed in a kilt!
The Whisky and Gift Shop is full of all sorts of unusual foods, drinks and different types of gifts. You could spend a fortune in here; and the staff are so friendly - even letting you sample some of their wares. They have over 60 different types of whisky (from 8 - 54 years old) and a great selection of whisky liqueurs; as well as locally produced haggis and clootie dumplings.
One of the other shops sells beautiful clothing, including traditional Scottish kilts, quality knitwear and outdoor garments. You can also buy unusual gifts, jewellery and there are numerous ideas for presents - anything and everything to do with Scotland. It is described as one of Scotland's best shopping experiences and I can see why. You can even buy postcards and have them posted from Gretna Green.
Back outside, if you are lucky, you might find a piper playing the bagpipes - now it really does feel like you are over the border in Bonnie Scotland. What a fabulous sight and sound!
There is plenty of opportunity to get something to eat or drink, a self service bar and restaurant or the sunny conservatory with its own menu. Or you can buy some local produce to take away with you.
Back towards the car park, past the Food hall, and there is an area for children to play and let off steam and a new Courtship Maze. If you have time, try to enjoy the views; this is a beautifully peaceful area with open countryside in every direction - a great place to stretch your legs and go for a walk.
So after being adequately refreshed, satisfied with some retail therapy and feel completely immersed in Scottish history - it was time to continue my journey. It had been a surprisingly enjoyable stop; only a few minutes from the M74 motorway; and somewhere that I would definitely call at again.
It is somewhere I can highy recommend.
For more information please see :- www.gretnagreen.com
Lynne
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