Gretna Green Ltd. has completed a £300,000 renovation of its toilets, transforming them into a unique wedding-themed experience. In collaboration with local business CPM Joinery & Building Ltd., based in Gretna, the project celebrates Gretna Green’s rich wedding history, dating back to 1754.
The newly renovated toilets feature displays of Scottish wedding traditions, including the quirky “Bury a Sausage” custom, where a bride buries a cooked sausage the night before her wedding to bring good weather. Near the sinks, visitors will experience an immersive feature: a looped video of a couple having a Handfasting ceremony in front of a Gretna Green anvil. The anvil is a symbol of the Famous Blacksmiths Shop, where couples have been eloping since 1754.
When entering visitors walk down an aisle with oak pews, arched mirrors, wooden beams, and floral arrangements, creating a traditional wedding atmosphere then choose to use the Grooms (male) or Brides (female) toilets, which even features a sign with a kilt. All toilet fixtures are motion-activated for a touch-free, hygienic experience, and Scottish-made soap and hand cream are provided to support Scottish businesses.
The official opening took place on 5th March 2024 after the wedding of Linda Coombes and Henry Masterson, who cut the ribbon and unveiled the new toilets to the public. Gretna Green also plans to enter the Loo of the Year Awards, celebrating excellence in washroom design.
“We wanted to create something truly special that reflects Gretna Green’s heritage while offering our visitors a unique experience of Gretna Green during an unforgettable visit across our site. Our newly renovated toilets are not just a facility; they are part of the story of Gretna Green, ensuring that everyone who visits gets to experience a Gretna Green wedding.” Oliver Rolfe, IT & Operations Director at Gretna Green
Gretna Green recently announced an £8 million investment in a major revamp of the Famous Blacksmiths Shop site, set to enhance the visitor experience over the next two years.
