What is Gretna in the UK famous for?

Gretna is a small village in Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland, located near the English border. It is most famous for its runaway marriage industry. In the 18th and 19th centuries, Gretna Green became a popular destination for couples who wanted to get married without the consent of their parents or guardians. This was because, under Scots law, couples over the age of 21 could marry without parental consent, while in England, such marriages were not legal. As a result, thousands of couples eloped to Gretna Green to tie the knot. The village's blacksmith's shop became particularly well-known for performing these marriages, and it is estimated that over 20,000 couples were married there between 1754 and 1856. Today, Gretna Green remains a popular destination for couples who want to get married, and it is estimated that around 5,000 weddings take place there each year.