All Creatures Great and Small Tour
Step into the World of James HerriotFrom the original vet’s surgery to the charming villages of Herriot Country
Whether you’re a fan of the original series, the more recent adaptation, or both, you’re in for an unforgettable experience! The stunning backdrop for both series is none other than the Yorkshire Dales, particularly Wensleydale, Swaledale, Nidderdale, and Wharfedale. These iconic locations bring the stories of James Herriot to life, and we’ll take you on a journey through the very places where the magic happens.
The tour often begins with a visit to The World of James Herriot in Thirsk, located in the very building where Alf Wight (James Herriot) lived and worked. Here, you’ll step back into the 1950s to experience the original vet’s surgery and home. Discover the veterinary practices of the time for both farm and domestic animals, and learn about how the beloved TV series was created and adapted.
From there, we’ll focus on your preference, whether it’s the classic original series or the recent adaptation, or even a mixture of both. Along the way, depending on your preferences, you will have the chance to see or visit some of the filming locations, and here are some examples:
- Ripon Racecourse
- Pateley Bridge
- Grassington
- Burnsall
- Malham
- Janet’s Foss Waterfall
- Arncliffe
- Helens Farm, Yockenthwaite
- Hubberholme
- Askrigg
- Bainbridge
- Hardraw Force and Bolton Castle
The Yorkshire Dales also boast incredible historical heritage, with castles, abbeys, churches, and stately homes, many of which have also appeared as film locations. You’ll visit these iconic sites, which make the Dales even more special, all while enjoying the stunning scenery and historical depth of the area.
Exclusive Yorkshire Dales Farm Experience
Herriot Country Tours has partnered with The Wensleydale Experience Team to offer an additional, exclusive opportunity: a two-hour immersion into traditional Yorkshire Dales farm life. This experience allows you to engage with the daily life of a working farm, one which James Herriot visited many times during his career and has been a film location for the TV series, in a way that typical tourists never get the opportunity to see.
You’ll have access to private vantage points offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Dales, providing a deeper connection with this iconic landscape. As part of this rare experience, you’ll enjoy a delightful picnic lunch at a stunning Pennine summit.
On the farm, you’ll have the chance to speak directly with the farmer and gain an insight into life in the Dales. You’ll see how drystone walls are built by skilled craftsmen, get close to the farm’s flock of sheep, observe their rare-breed pigs, and meet the docile Highland cattle.
This exclusive experience is only available through Herriot Country Tours, a truly unique way to experience the Yorkshire Dales up close. This remarkable opportunity can be included within the tour day, and we will build an itinerary around your preferences. Please visit our VIP Experiences page for full details.
A Bespoke Experience
As each tour is tailored to your preferences, we ensure that the itinerary remains as flexible as possible to accommodate your personal interests. With no fixed timetable, the pace of the day is relaxed and unrushed, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the Yorkshire Dales National Park at your leisure.
The All Creatures Great and Small Tour can be booked as a day tour, part of a multi-day tour, or as part of our Stay and Tour Packages, combining aspects from multiple tours each day for the full Herriot Country experience. Whatever you choose, we’ll tailor the tour to your needs.
Simply let us know your preferences, and we’ll create the perfect tour for you. After all, it’s your adventure!
For more information or assistance planning your Herriot Country tour, feel free to email paul@herriot-countrytours.co.uk.