Follow an Ancient Tradition

The ancient tradition of the ‘handfasting’ ceremony for marrying couples was law in Scotland until as recently as 1940. This simple civil ceremony enabled couples over the age of 16 to marry, by declaring in front of two witnesses their wish to be husband and wife and they were legally bound. Gretna Green became famous for these handfasting ceremonies following the 1754 Marriage Act.

The Original Marriage Room (Accommodates up to 45 guests)

Today as you pass through the narrow walls and low ceiling you are touched by the atmosphere of this ancient building. You can just imagine hearing the voices of the frantic couple as they make their dramatic dash over the border claiming, “It must be tonight! It must be tonight!”

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