Become a Viking legend

Step into a living legacy at our forge in Mars Hill, NC, just outside of Asheville.

Build your own blade in a hands-on forge experience, pose with swords on our handcrafted medieval throne, and make memories that last a lifetime.

"Beat your plowshares into swords and your pruning hooks into spears; let the weak say,
I AM STRONG."

- Joel 3:10

What We Offer

Discover More About Forging

Experience the Forge

- Hands-on blacksmith sessions: Heat, hammer, shape and forge your own weapon. Whether it's a dagger, knife, battle-axe, it's yours!

- Led by Jeremy, a seventh generation Appalachian with a lineage tracing back to Viking Rollo. Beginner friendly!

Discover Once Upon a Photo Studios

Throne of Swords Portraits

- Taken by Dani with Once Upon a Photo (onceuponaphotostudios.com)

- Pose in a medieval-style throne made of swords like the royalty you are.

- Full wardrobe and props included. Perfect for fantasy collectors and social feed glory!

Why Forge or get a picture on a throne?

Forge because scrolling doesn't make memories

Forge a blade, forge a bond. This is hands-on adventure that stays with you long after the embers cool. Whether it's a unique date night, an unforgettable team building experience, or a way to challenge yourself with something real.

Anyone can buy a knife, dagger, or axe online. But nothing compares to making one yourself, guided by a master forger. Every spark, every swing, every drop of sweat becomes part of your memory etched into your blade.

Get the picture because it's about the story

Not everyone can swing a hammer but maybe you want to be a Viking king or queen. This isn't some AI-generated fantasy. You don't get pasted into a scene. You become the scene.

You sit in a REAL handcrafted throne of swords, cloaked in fur, armor, or royal garb. It's not about a photo. It's about the feeling of becoming a character and telling your story.

5 Star Reviews from Airbnb

5 Star Reviews from Google

Hear From Some Recent Vikings -

Wonderful -highly recommend! Haley and Jeremy will give you such a great experience and you can walk away with a lovely practical item you’ll use daily ❤️

Vesna
Charlotte, NC

Jun 14,2025

This was a very unique experience. Jeremy was very knowledgeable and taught my wife and I so much about forging. Going there and trying this out for the 1st time has now sparked an interest for me to do this as a hobby on my own. Highly recommend giving this place a shot.

Ricardo
United States
Jun 13, 2025

I bought this experience as a surprise gift to my husband… to say he was pleased with it would be the biggest understatement! He said Jeremy was the perfect instructor and host and that he thoroughly enjoyed the experience! The piece that he made is truly stunning and will become a family heirloom, for sure! Thank you so much! Sincerely, Sheila and Rusty

Sheila
Lilburn, GA
Jun 8, 2025

The Price of Glory

The Price

of Glory

An experience you'll never forget

Forge Your Blade

$ 135.00 per person

Join Jeremy, our master forger, for a small group session inside the heart of the forge. You'll start with a safety briefing and get introduced to the tools, materials, and process. Then with step-by-step guidance, you'll shape red hot steel into a knife, dagger, or other hand forged creation of your choosing.

2-3 hour session with one-on-one instruction
Hands-on experience with hammering, shaping, and finishing
Your choice of item to forge (no swords)
You keep what you make
Unforgettable stories and bragging rights for life

Book Now

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I make during the session?

We offer a variety of options including daggers, cleavers, throwing axes, fire pokers, spoons, decorative hooks, and more. We don't offer swords due to the length of time it takes.

Do I get to choose what I make and keep it?

Yes and yes! Jeremy will walk you through the options and help you decide based on your interests and skill level. And whatever you create is yours forever.

Do I need any prior blacksmithing experience?

Not at all. The Forge experience is beginner friendly and completely hands-on. Jeremy will guide you through every step of the process as much, or as little, as you need.

How long does forging last?

Each forge session runs approximately 2.5 to 3 hours.

What's the age limit?

The minimum age is 14. Due to the strenuous and high-risk nature of forging (1800F+ temps, red hot metal, sharp tools), anyone under 18 must have a parent or guardian present to sign a release of liability waiver. All participants must sign a waiver before starting.

What should I wear?

Safety first! All participants are required to wear:

Closed toe shoes (no sandals or flip flops)
Long pants
A comfortable shirt appropriate for the weather
There will be sparks, heat, and physical activity.
We provide safety gloves on site.

is this good for couples or groups?

Absolutely Whether it's a date, a birthday, or small group adventure, forging together makes for a legendary shared experience. Just note that each person forging will need their own booking.

what happens if I need to reschedule?

We get that things come up. Just let us know at least 48 hours in advance, and we'll do our best to find a new time that works for you.

can I take photos or videos during the session?

Yes! We encourage it. You're welcome to document the experience. Just stay mindful of the hot tools and materials. And definitely tag us @Vikingsdontcry when you post!

Don't forget your Skaldwear "Viking swag"

Crafted for the fighters, the forged, and the unbreakable. This isn't just Viking merch, it's armor for your mindset. Wit, grit, and iron-clad reminders that YOU were built to endure.

Shop Now

At Vikings Don't Cry, we create unforgettable, hands-on experiences. Whether you're forging a blade or posing like royalty on a throne of swords, we're here to make it happen.