At a Glance
- Tasks: Engage visitors with live forge demos and captivating storytelling.
- Company: Gretna Green, a historic site bringing stories to life.
- Benefits: Free parking, birthday day off, and staff discounts.
- Other info: Seasonal role with opportunities to learn and grow.
- Why this job: Be part of a unique experience and share history with guests.
- Qualifications: Outgoing personality and a passion for storytelling; no experience needed.
The predicted salary is between 12.75 - 12.75 £ per hour.
A couple steps into the forge for the first time, where history sparks to life. The fire is burning. The hammer strikes the anvil. The story begins. For over 270 years, Gretna Green has been a place where stories start, where couples crossed the border to marry and history was made at the Blacksmith’s anvil. Now, for the first time in over 150 years, the forge is alive again. As an Experience & Attraction Guide, every interaction is an opportunity to create something memorable. Working alongside our Blacksmith, Joe, you’ll help turn each visit into an experience — sharing stories, drawing people in, and making them feel part of the moment. This is more than a role in hospitality — it’s performance, storytelling and guest experience combined.
WHAT YOU’LL BE DOING
- Supporting live forge demonstrations and immersive experiences
- Bringing the history of Gretna Green to life through storytelling
- Engaging visitors and creating a welcoming, memorable atmosphere
- Answering questions and connecting with guests from around the world
- Helping the forge run smoothly during busy periods
- Supporting wider attraction activity and events across site
What we’re looking for
- A natural storyteller who enjoys working with people
- Outgoing, energetic and comfortable in a guest-facing role
- Interest in history, heritage or experiences (we’ll provide the training)
- A team player who can adapt and think on their feet
No previous experience is essential, personality, enthusiasm and a positive attitude matter most.
Why Work with Gretna Green?
- Free on-site parking
- Day off for your birthday – Celebrate your day, your way
- 25% staff discount on stays at our hotels
- Seasonal role
Our values
- Be Kind – Show respect, patience, and warmth to everyone
- Deliver Magic – Maintain high standards, even under pressure
- Be Curious – Ask questions, learn new things, get better every day
- Be Adaptable – Smile when plans change
- Think Like a Landowner – Take pride in and care for your environment
Ready to BE PART OF OUR TEAM? Every day, visitors arrive at Gretna Green to experience something special. This is your chance to be part of that moment — to tell the story, create the atmosphere, and bring history to life.
Location: The Village at Gretna Green
Hours: Full-Time – 30 hours per week (Seasonal)
Salary: £12.75 per hour
To Apply: Email your CV to careers@gretnagreen.com
Blacksmith Forge Experience Guide employer: Gretna Green Ltd
Gretna Green is an exceptional employer that offers a unique opportunity to engage with history and create memorable experiences for visitors. With a focus on storytelling and guest interaction, employees enjoy a vibrant work culture that values kindness, curiosity, and adaptability. The company provides benefits such as free on-site parking, a day off for your birthday, and a generous staff discount on hotel stays, making it a rewarding place to work in a picturesque location.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Blacksmith Forge Experience Guide
✨Get in Early: Embrace the Seasonal Rush
In hospitality, seasonal hiring can be a bit of a frenzy, so make sure you’re applying early. Keep an eye on when local businesses like cafés and restaurants ramp up for holiday seasons or summer rushes. We can help you stay ahead by tracking application windows—don’t miss out!
✨Join Local Hospitality Groups
Tap into local hospitality communities online or through social media. Groups on Facebook or platforms like MeetUp can be goldmines for seasonal job opportunities. Engage with these communities—join discussions, share your eagerness, and you could snag a gig before it’s even advertised!
✨Show Your Face: Walk-Ins Matter
In hospitality, nothing beats a good ol' walk-in. Visit local establishments and introduce yourself. Bring along a flashy CV and maybe even drop a line about why you’re keen to work there. Sometimes just chatting with the manager can score you an interview on the spot!
✨Use Seasonal Hiring Platforms
Look for platforms that specialise in seasonal positions in the hospitality sector. Websites dedicated to summer jobs or Festival employment can offer unique roles that align with your interests. Don't forget to apply through our website too—companies like Gretna Green Ltd are constantly looking for enthusiastic seasonal workers like you!
We think you need these skills to ace Blacksmith Forge Experience Guide
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Skills:In the hospitality and food service game, your customer service skills are your bread and butter. Make sure your CV highlights any relevant experience you have in restaurants, cafés, or similar environments, emphasizing your ability to handle busy situations and provide excellent service.
Seasonal Availability is Key:Since this is a seasonal role, we're looking for candidates who are flexible with their availability. In your cover letter, mention specific times you’re available during the season and any previous seasonal positions you’ve held. This helps us see you as a perfect fit for this temporary gig!
Culinary Knowledge Can Set You Apart:If you have any culinary certifications or training, be sure to feature them prominently in your application. Knowing your way around a kitchen or having food safety certifications could give you an edge over other candidates when applying for a role at Gretna Green Ltd.
Make It Personal:When applying through our website, use your cover letter to share why you’re passionate about working with Gretna Green Ltd. Draw on any personal experiences you have in the hospitality scene and how they inspired you to apply for this seasonal role. We love a personal touch!
How to prepare for a job interview at Gretna Green Ltd
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
With a seasonal role in hospitality-food-service, it’s super important to familiarise yourself with the menu. Be ready to chat about your favourite dishes, special ingredients, and any dietary considerations people might have. This shows you're passionate and prepared to provide excellent service right from the start!
✨Brush Up on Your Customer Service Skills
In hospitality, customer service can make or break the experience. Think of scenarios where you've gone the extra mile for a guest, or how you've handled challenges with a smile. Prepare a few stories that highlight your ability to connect with customers, solve problems, and create a welcoming atmosphere.
✨Flexibility is Key
Seasonal roles often require us to be flexible with our hours and responsibilities. During the interview, be prepared to discuss your availability and willingness to adapt. Highlighting your ability to jump into different roles, whether it’s serving or kitchen support, can really set you apart.
✨Showcase Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, especially in busy seasons. Prepare to share experiences where you collaborated with colleagues to create a seamless experience for guests. If you've got any examples where you helped to lift team morale during busy shifts, mention them! It’s all about showing that you can contribute positively to the work environment.
