Located just a stone’s throw from Scotland’s border with England is the village of Gretna Green. It became famous following the 1754 Marriage Act, when young English couples flocked to Scotland to wed without their parents’ consent.
In the heart of Gretna Green is the Famous Blacksmiths Shop, which has been hosting weddings for more than 250 years. In addition to housing three different wedding venues, it brings the village’s history of runaway weddings to life through audio-visual displays. Browse the letters written by couples who defied their families and touch the anvil that is said to bring good fortune in love.
Clustered around the shop are traditional cottages where you can shop for Scottish whiskey, gifts and locally made produce. Admire the large-scale artwork in the Gretna Green Sculpture Garden or challenge your loved one in the Courtship Maze, which is designed in the shape of two interlocking wedding bands.
Getting there
Gretna Green is around 15 minutes’ drive from Carlisle and 1.5 hours from Newcastle International Airport, which has flights to destinations across Europe and the Middle East. Trains connect from Glasgow to the Gretna Green railway station and buses travel to surrounding towns and villages.