Gretna Green Chef Learns from Celebrity TV Chef Marco Pierre White

•  Charlie Jones, a talented upcoming chef at Gretna Hall Hotel, had the opportunity to work with celebrity TV chef Marco Pierre White.
• Gretna Green is proud to have Charlie as a colleague and member of its Gretna Hall Hotel Kitchen Team

 Gretna Green, Scotland - May 29, 2023 - Gretna Green, the renowned award-winning, family-owned, wedding and hospitality destination, is proud to announce that one of its talented chefs, Charlie Jones, had the honour of working with celebrity TV chef Marco Pierre White. Charlie is a member of the Kitchen Team at Gretna Hall and has been working for the company for the past year while studying catering at Dumfries & Galloway College.

Charlie's dedication and passion for cooking have led her to great opportunities, with working alongside Marco Pierre White a dream come true. The experience took place on a cruise ship and allowed her to learn from one of the most respected chefs in the world and further develop her culinary skills.

Charlie's recent experience with Marco Pierre White was a remarkable opportunity, and she is grateful for the chance to have worked with and learned from such an esteemed chef. Her time with Marco Pierre White has undoubtedly enriched her knowledge, skills, and passion for culinary excellence, and she looks forward to incorporating what she has learned into her work at Gretna Hall.

Isabel Rhodes, Chief Executive of Gretna Green said, “We’re proud to have Charlie as a chef at Gretna Hall Hotel, and we look forward to seeing her continue to grow and excel in her culinary career.”

Smiths Hotel at Gretna Green launches new menus

• Smiths Hotel launches new menus for Summer 2023
• Menus include: Chainmail Restaurant Menu, the brand new Brasserie Menu and Kid’s Menus.
• New dishes on the menus are King Prawn Linguine and Chicken Tikka Masala
• Smiths Hotel 2 AA Rosette rated restaurant invites guests to come and enjoy the new dishes on the menus.

Gretna Green, Scotland - May 22, 2023 - Gretna Green, the award-winning family-owned wedding and hospitality destination, is excited to announce the launch of four new menus at its award-winning Smiths Hotel. The new menus include the Chainmail Restaurant Menu, and the brand new Brasserie Menu and the Kid’s Menu.

The Brasserie Menu is a completely new addition to Smiths Hotel's culinary offerings, featuring dishes like King Prawn Linguine and Chicken Tikka Masala and will be served in the hotel lounge. The other menus have been updated with new and exciting dishes to reflect the Summer season.

Smiths Hotel is a 4-star luxury boutique hotel in Gretna Green, highly recommended as the best 4-star hotel in the South of Scotland at the Scottish Hotel Awards, and it boasts a 2 AA Rosette rated restaurant. Guests are welcome to come and enjoy a delicious dish or two from the new menus at Smiths. Bookings can be made online at www.smithsgretnagreen.com

“We are delighted to introduce these new Summer menus at Smiths Hotel, and offer even more dining options for our guests,” said Isabel Rhodes, Chief Executive of Gretna Green. “Our new menus have been crafted with love by our talented culinary team and we’re sure every dish we make will allow our guests to enjoy an unforgettable culinary experience.”

Say thanks to Dad this Father's Day with a unique gift or memorable experience from Gretna Green! Whether you'd like to treat Dad to a whisky tasting for two, a three-course Sunday Lunch, or something heartfelt from our range of Father's Day gifts, we have what you're looking for.

Find out more about our Father's Day gifts, experiences & special offers below.

Gretna Green Announces Father’s Day Offers

Treat Dad to a delicious Sunday lunch at Gretna Hall this Father’s Day

• Surprise Dad by treating him to a whisky tasting experience voucher for two
• Give Dad a gift straight from the heart with options like Gretna Green whisky, Anvil Ale, Barbour clothing, Gretna Green Fudge & chocolates, or a Gretna Green hipflask, available in-store or online at Gretna Green

Gretna Green, Scotland - May 17, 2023 - Gretna Green, the family-owned wedding and hospitality destination, is pleased to announce its offers for Father's Day 2023. Celebrate the special day and show your gratitude to the man of the hour with the following options:

• Sunday lunch at Gretna Hall from 12 noon to 6 pm on Sunday 18th June. 1 course for £15.00, 2 courses for £19.50, or 3 courses for £24.00. The menu features a range of delicious dishes including a traditional Sunday Roast.
• Thoughtful gifts straight from the heart. Gretna Green offers a selection of gifts including Gretna Green whisky, Anvil Ale, Barbour clothing, Gretna Green Fudge & chocolates, Gretna Green hipflasks and more.
• A whisky tasting experience voucher for a moment that will make a memory for years to come. Treat Dad to a whisky tasting experience voucher for two, available online at www.gretnagreen.com/shopping for only £39.00.

"Father's Day is a special occasion, and we're excited to help you show your love and appreciation for that father figure in your life," said Isabel Rhodes, Chief Executive of Gretna Green. "With our fantastic Sunday lunch, thoughtful gifts, and unique whisky tasting experience voucher, we're sure that you'll find the perfect way to say 'Thank You' this Father's Day.”

Press Release

Gretna Green Joins Flock to the Show Campaign to Celebrate World Sheep Shearing & Wool Handling Championships

• Gretna Green takes part in Royal Highland Show’s Flock to show campaign
• Clova the sheep at Gretna Green Foodcourt from 2 nd to 15th of May
• Locals and visitors are encouraged to visit and get a photo with Clova.

Gretna Green, Scotland – May 2, 2023 - Gretna Green, the family-owned, award-winning, wedding, hospitality, retail, tourism, and experience destination, is excited to announce its participation in the Royal Highland Show’s Flock to the Show campaign.

The campaign celebrates the return of the World Sheep Shearing & Woolhandling Championships, Golden Shears, to the Royal Highland Show 2023, and attracts competitors from around the world and offers a showcase for the very best in sheep shearing and wool handling.

Flock to the Show is a large-scale public art trail that tours across Scotland, featuring decorated sheep sculptures created by local artists. Gretna Green's chosen sheep, Clova from the Flock, will be visiting Gretna Green from 2nd of May until Monday 15 th May. Visitors are welcome to come and meet Clova during her visit at Gretna Green Foodcourt.

Isabel Rhodes, Chief Executive of Gretna Green said: "We are thrilled to be a part of the Flock to the Show campaign and celebrate the run up to the 2023 Royal Highland Show. We encourage everyone to come and see Clova during her visit and make a moment a memory at Gretna Green”

ABBA Tribute Night at Smiths Hotel

Grab your dancing shoes and step back in time to the unforgettable tunes of ABBA! Join us at Smiths Hotel on July 21st, 2023 for an exceptional ABBA Tribute Night that will keep you entertained until the late hours of the evening.

For just £45.00 per ticket, you'll enjoy a delectable three-course meal, an arrival drink, and, of course, and of course entertainment. Smiths Hotel boasts a spacious dance floor, making it the ideal venue for the ABBA Tribute Night. Gather your friends, dress up in your finest ABBA-inspired outfit, and let's make it an evening to remember.

But why let the fun end after the party? For just £190.00, you can extend your stay and make the most of your weekend with a comfortable double room and breakfast for two. So, what are you waiting for? Seize this fantastic offer and turn your weekend into an unforgettable experience.

Book your tickets now and get ready for a night full of singing, dancing, and ABBA magic. Whether you are a "Dancing Queen" or not, this is an event you won't want to miss.

Hurry! Tickets are limited, so book now to secure your spot at this fantastic event email: [email protected]. Don't miss out on this opportunity to experience the best of ABBA and create unforgettable memories with friends and loved ones.

PRESS RELEASE

Gretna Green Hotels Recognised at Prestige Scottish Hotel Awards

• Prestige Hotel Awards ceremony, recognising excellence across the Scottish hospitality industry, held in Glasgow on 23rd April 2023
• Gretna Green’s Hotel – Smiths and Gretna Hall – were finalists across four different categories
• Gretna Hall Hotel won the award for Scotland’s Best Hotel Team
• Smiths Hotel has been highly recommended as Scotland's Best 4-star Hotel in the South of Scotland

Gretna Green, the family-owned wedding, hospitality, retail, and experience destination, is thrilled to announce that both hotels were recognised at the Prestige Hotel Awards, with Gretna Hall winning Scotland’s Best Hotel Team Award and Smiths Hotel being highly recommended as Scotland's Best 4-star Hotel in the South of Scotland.

The winners of the Scottish Hotel Awards were announced at a gala ceremony held on April 23, 2023, in Glasgow, with Gretna Green’s two hotels – Smiths and Gretna Hall – shortlisted across four different categories. Smiths Hotel was a finalist for Best 4-Star Hotel in the South of Scotland. At the same time, Gretna Hall Hotel was a finalist in three categories: Scotland's Best 3-Star Hotel, Scotland’s Best Hotel Team and Scotland’s Best General Manager.
These prestigious awards recognise the exceptional service and outstanding guest experience delivered by our colleagues across Gretna Green’s Gretna Hall Hotel and Smiths Hotel.

"We are absolutely delighted to receive this award and recognition for our hotels,” said Isabel Rhodes, Chief Executive of Gretna Green. "It highlights the hard work, spirit and passion we see in our colleagues every day who go above and beyond to create memorable experiences for our guests and underscores our commitment to excellence at Gretna Green."

Press Release

Gretna Hall Hotel has been awarded AA 4-star Rating

Gretna Green, the family-owned wedding, hospitality, retail, and experience destination, is thrilled to announce that its Gretna Hall Hotel has been awarded AA 4-star Rating status.

The AA is the UK's leading independent hotel and restaurant guide and its ratings are internationally renowned as a trusted benchmark for quality. The AA inspectors examine every aspect of the hotel's facilities, services, and guest experience, from the cleanliness and comfort of the rooms to the quality of the food and the professionalism of the team.

Gretna Hall's 4-star rating is a testament to the dedication and hard work of the entire team in providing an exceptional guest experience and the recent investment in refurbishing the rooms and bar area at the hotel. The hotel offers stunning suites, exceptional drinking and dining options, 10 acres of beautiful gardens and magnificent marriage rooms on site. The hotel's commitment to providing outstanding customer service is evident in every aspect of its operations, from the warm welcome guests receive on arrival to the impeccable attention to detail in every room.

Commenting on the achievement, Chief Executive of Gretna Green, Isabel Rhodes, said: "We are absolutely delighted to receive AA 4-star Rating status from the AA, which recognizes the fantastic efforts of our team to provide our guests with an exceptional stay. At Gretna Hall, we strive to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere, where our guests can relax and enjoy our outstanding facilities and services. This rating is a testament to our commitment to excellence and our passion for hospitality."

Press Release

• John Holliday starts with immediate effect; with a growth agenda for one of Scotland’s oldest attractions.
• Executive with a track record of business growth; local and global.
• It comes just hours after the company’s Gretna Hall Hotel won Scotland’s Best Hotel Team at the Prestige Awards.

Gretna Green, the world-famous weddings, retail and hotels business, today announces that it has appointed John Holliday as Executive Chairman.

He joins Gretna Green, after 20 years in London, working at four blue-chip media brands including ITV, BBC, Sky News and Bloomberg. The 53-year-old takes over the full-time role from Alasdair Houston, who passed away in June 2021.

Gretna Green family director, Lucy Houston, said: “As a seasoned professional, John brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to our team. He has previously served in senior roles at high-profile companies and has a proven track record of driving growth, implementing effective strategies, building and leading successful teams.” Fellow director, Susan Houston, added: “In his new role as Executive Chairman of Gretna Green, John will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of our business, including strategy and growth initiatives. He will work closely with senior management team to ensure that our business continues to thrive and evolve in today's dynamic marketplace.”

Mr Holliday, an ex-professional footballer at Carlisle United and Mansfield Town, has had several successes in business – including taking a U.K. focused broadcast technology and making it truly global; building the world’s smallest TV studio in a box and ‘The Home of the Expert’. A farmer’s son, he grew up at Langwathby near Penrith and returned to Cumbria in 2019 to help grow two businesses in the Eden Valley. He initially joined the Gretna Green Board as non-executive director in 2022. He takes over from chairman John Hammond, who is continuing to support the Board as non-executive director.

“Susan and I are extremely grateful for John Hammond’s kindness and steady support during the last couple of year following Alasdair’s death and thank him for his loyalty, hard work and guidance. We now look to the future and feel this is an exciting time for the company going forward with John Holliday as Executive Chairman,” added Mrs Houston.

Commenting on his appointment, Mr. Holliday said: "I am honoured to be joining the team at Gretna Green as Executive Chairman. This is an iconic global brand with a rich heritage and history. It has a bright future and as custodian I am excited to be part of its continued success. I look forward to working with chief executive Isabel Rhodes and the team to build on the company's strengths and drive growth in new and innovative ways."

Looking for exciting, memorable things to do this Easter? Why not join us for fun days out, tasty treats and great escapes at the Famous Blacksmiths Shop Attractions, Smiths at Gretna Green Hotel, Gretna Hall Hotel and The Old Toll Bar Cafe, this April 2023?

Find out more below.

Dining
	Afternoon Tea at Smiths Hotel Easter Friday, Sunday and Monday Only £19.95 per person To book, please email: [email protected] or call: 01461 337007
	Easter Sunday Lunch at Gretna Hall Hotel Sunday 9th April 2023 1 course for £15.00 2 courses for £19.50 3 courses for £24.00 Book online Or call 01461 337007 to reserve your table.
	Shop and enjoy the New Cocoa Bean Easter Range Available at the Foodhall at Gretna Green at the Famous Blacksmiths Shop Attraction In store NOW!   Foodhall at Gretna Green, Famous Blacksmiths Shop Attractions, DG16 5EA
Experiences
	Easter Egg Hunt Weekend at the Famous Blacksmiths Shop Join us over the Easter weekend for a fun, family Easter egg hunt Saturday 8th & Sunday 9th April 2023 Start at the Foodhall and work your way around the Famous Blacksmiths Shop attraction sites Each child will win an Easter Egg. 10 am - 4 pm No need to book, just visit us on the day
Stays
	Join us this Easter for a Dinner, Bed & Breakfast break for 2   1 Night Bed & Breakfast £15.00 per person allowance towards dinner Cocktail with meal per person Full Scottish Breakfast the following morning Book online
	Join us this Easter for a Break for 2 with Afternoon tea   1 Night Bed & Breakfast Afternoon Tea for two with a glass of prosecco Full Scottish Breakfast the following morning Book online