Full-Day Discovering All Creatures Great and Small Tour of Yorkshire

Discover Yorkshire’s TV Heritage and Scenic Charms with the All Creatures Great and Small Tour

If you’re a fan of James Herriot or just love the idea of exploring the picturesque landscapes of Yorkshire, this full-day tour offers a charming blend of film history, stunning countryside, and authentic local spots. With a dedicated guide leading the way in a cozy mini-van, you’ll visit iconic locations from the beloved BBC series, both old and new, while soaking up the breathtaking views of the Yorkshire Dales.

One of our favorite aspects? The expert commentary from guides like John Sherwood, who not only navigates you through narrow country lanes but also shares intriguing stories about the TV series and the region’s history. On the flip side, a possible consideration is that the tour’s success hinges heavily on the guide’s knowledge—some reviewers noted they wished for more detail about James Herriot himself.

This experience is perfect for TV lovers, countryside explorers, or history enthusiasts wanting a relaxed, well-organized day out that combines film sets with beautiful scenery and local culture.

Key Points

• Film Location Highlights: Visit the original All Creatures Great and Small filming spots, including the former surgery and the Drovers Arms pub.
• Authentic Yorkshire Experience: From the historic city of York to the stunning Dales, enjoy picturesque scenery and charming villages.
• Expert Guides: Guides like John Sherwood provide engaging commentary and answer questions, enhancing your understanding of the show’s setting.
• Value for Money: At around $110, the tour offers a full day with entry to the James Herriot Museum, guided sightseeing, and scenic drives.
• Comfortable Transport: Travel is arranged in a small, friendly mini-van, allowing for an intimate and flexible experience.
• Flexible Cancellation: Free cancellations up to 24 hours in advance give peace of mind, making this a low-risk booking.

An In-Depth Look at the Full-Day Yorkshire Adventure

This tour, rated a perfect 5.0/5 from 28 reviews, is designed to bring to life the magic of All Creatures Great and Small, both the classic series and the more recent adaptation. For those who love Yorkshire’s rolling hills, charming villages, and the stories of James Herriot, the experience offers a rare chance to see the locations that inspired the series.

Starting in York: The Heart of Yorkshire

The tour begins in York, a city bursting with history, at the Memorial Gardens on Leeman Road. From here, the journey into the countryside is just a short, scenic drive away. Having most travelers book about three months in advance (94 days on average), it suggests a steady demand—likely because of how well-organized and memorable the experience is.

The World of James Herriot: A Must-Visit

Your first stop is the World of James Herriot attraction, where entry is included in the ticket price. Here, fans can wander through the original home used in the series, see memorabilia, and get a sense of the author’s life and work. One reviewer, Jeffrey, mentioned that the Herriot Museum was “incredible” and that you could spend hours exploring it—a true highlight for fans and newcomers alike. The museum offers a richer context about the stories and real places that inspired the beloved veterinarian’s tales, making it more than just a set visit.

Village Charm in Skipton

Next, you’ll visit the pretty town of Skipton, often called the “Gateway to the Dales.” This stop provides about an hour for a guided tour of the filming locations in the area. The village’s quaint streets, historic buildings, and scenic surroundings make it a perfect snapshot of Yorkshire’s charm. One reviewer praised the guide’s commentary, saying Trevor’s storytelling made the landscape come alive, adding depth beyond just sightseeing.

The Dales’ Iconic Landscape and the Drovers Arms

A highlight for many is the stop at Hardraw Force, England’s highest waterfall, and the local pub, the Drovers Arms, which appeared as the interior of The Drovers Arms in the TV series. This spot offers a relaxed 30-minute break for a drink or a snack, with the chance to snap photos of the stunning waterfall and imagine scenes from the show. One guest noted the scenery was “awesome”, and that visiting the pub added a cozy, authentic touch to the experience.

The Final Stop: York’s Historic Heart

The tour wraps up with about six and a half hours in York, allowing you time to explore more of the city’s historic sites or enjoy a leisurely lunch. The balance of guided stops and free time makes this tour flexible for travelers who want to combine film history with a bit of urban exploration.

What You Can Expect from the Experience

Transportation in a cozy mini-van ensures you’re comfortably whisked between locations, with a small group size (max 15) promoting a friendly atmosphere. Guides like John Sherwood are praised for their knowledgeable commentary, keeping the day engaging with stories about the TV series and the Yorkshire landscape.

The scenery—vast, open fields, winding country roads, and charming villages—is genuinely breathtaking. Many reviewers, including Audra, commented on the “beautiful countryside” and appreciated the scenic drives that made the journey enjoyable even between stops.

The focus on film locations adds a layer of nostalgia and charm—seeing where beloved scenes were shot deepens your appreciation for the series and the region. However, some, like Brenda, noted that the guide’s knowledge about James Herriot could sometimes be limited, so if you’re looking for in-depth literary history, you might find that aspect lacking.

Cost-wise, at around $109, the tour offers good value considering the inclusion of the museum entry, guided sightseeing, and scenic drives. The duration (about 9 hours) gives ample time to enjoy both the highlights and some downtime.

Authentic Experiences and Practicalities

The reviews highlight the importance of a friendly, knowledgeable guide—an element that truly elevates the trip. Guests like Jeffrey appreciated guides who kept everyone on track and shared engaging stories about the Dales’ history and the TV series. Conversely, a few noted that an overly brief or uninformed guide could detract from the experience.

The cancellation policy is straightforward: free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance, which is helpful if your plans change. Since most travelers book well in advance, this flexibility makes the decision to commit easier.

Group size is kept small (maximum 15), making the tour intimate and allowing for personalized attention. This is particularly valuable in rural areas where individual questions about the filming locations or the landscape can be easily addressed.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for TV fans, especially those who adore All Creatures Great and Small, old and new. It’s also a perfect choice for scenery lovers who want to see some of England’s most beautiful landscapes without the hassle of self-driving. The relaxed pace and small group size make it suitable for travelers of all ages and mobility levels, provided you’re comfortable with a full day out.

If you’re interested in local culture and authentic Yorkshire villages, the stops in Skipton and the pub visit at the Drovers Arms will be particularly memorable. For those seeking photo opportunities, the waterfalls and rolling hills are worth a thousand words.

The Sum Up

This Full-Day Discovering All Creatures Great and Small Tour of Yorkshire offers a well-rounded experience blending TV history, scenic beauty, and local charm. The inclusion of the James Herriot Museum, coupled with stops in picturesque villages and the Yorkshire Dales, provides a satisfying mix of culture and nature. With knowledgeable guides like John Sherwood ensuring the stories stay alive, the trip feels personal and engaging.

While the guide’s depth of Herriot knowledge could be improved, the stunning views, friendly atmosphere, and authenticity of the locations make this tour a great value. It’s best suited for film fans, countryside explorers, and those wanting a relaxed, well-organized day filled with memorable sights.

If you’re after a day that combines beautiful scenery with a touch of TV magic, this tour hits the mark. It promises a lovely, insightful slice of Yorkshire life, perfect for creating stories and memories to cherish long after your trip ends.

FAQ

Is transportation provided?
Yes, you’ll travel in a comfortable mini-van, which makes for a cozy and intimate group experience.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is approximately 9 hours, starting at 9:00 am and ending back in York.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers the guided tour, entry to the James Herriot Museum, and transportation. Gratuities are optional.

Are there any stops for food?
While the tour includes a stop at the Drovers Arms for a drink, there’s ample free time in York to find lunch or explore on your own.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but the full-day schedule might be tiring for very young children or those with mobility issues.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera are recommended for the scenic stops and sightseeing.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours before the tour.