Old Blacksmith’s Shop Centre

Gretna Green

If you are travelling west of the Scottish / English border at the beginning or end of your self catering holiday, then the Old Blacksmiths Shop Centre is the perfect place to take a break. Located in the small Scottish village of Gretna Green, this famous black and white building marries historical intrigue with retail therapy and great places to eat.

Here lies a history of runaway couples who, since 1754, have raced to Gretna Green to marry under Scottish Law. It was to this small Scottish village that countless young English couples fled after a new law was introduced preventing couples under the age of 21 to wed without their parents consent. Although marriage laws today are very different, more than 1000 couples still wed over the original 19th-century anvil in the marriage room here annually.

The Old Blacksmiths Shop was first opened to the public in 1866 after vast interest from tourists worldwide. Today you will find a fascinating visitor centre in the Blacksmith’s Cottage featuring exhibitions with multi-lingual audio-visual displays, wonderful shopping, and endless eating opportunities. You can buy everything from Pringle, Lyle & Scott knitwear, Johnston's of Elgin Cashmere, St Andrews Old Course range of gifts, the Lochcarron range of tartans and Waterford and Stuart Crystal. If you are hungry or a little peckish The Old Smithy Restaurant is open all day and sells everything from light snacks to 3 course meals, with the emphasis on wholesome, fresh, traditional Scottish food.

If that is not enough you can enjoy some fresh air whilst taking a walk through the sculpture garden, entertain the children with the adventure play park and the Native Breeds Park, or visit the Arts and Crafts Centre. There is plenty here offering an enjoyable visit.

Open
Open all year