A simple single-storeyed stone-built structure, consisting of a shoeing area, the smithy itself and a stable, which was originally used to house horses awaiting shoeing. This was later adapted into a half-loft for the storage of iron. It ceased being a working smithy in 1963 and was moved to the museum in September 1970.

Until the mid-20th century, every rural community depended heavily on its smithy. Here horses were shod, household items made and mended, metal bands put on wagon wheels, amongst many other tasks. Many smithies developed into centres of rural industry, manufacturing ploughs and other farm implements, domestic utensils, tools and nails. The smithy was also an important social centre where local people would meet and talk.