York: “All Creatures Great and Small” Yorkshire Dales Tour

Exploring the Yorkshire Dales with the “All Creatures Great and Small” Tour from York

If you’re a fan of the beloved TV series or simply love stunning countryside, the “All Creatures Great and Small” Yorkshire Dales tour offers a well-rounded experience. This guided day trip from York takes you through the landscapes that inspired James Herriot and his tales of veterinary life, with plenty of opportunities to see iconic filming spots, picturesque villages, and historic sites. Priced at around $109 per person, it promises a full 8.5 hours of scenic adventures and storytelling.

What makes this experience particularly appealing is the chance to visit both old and new series filming locations, with knowledgeable guides bringing the stories and history to life. Plus, a cheese tasting at the Wensleydale Creamery adds a delicious local touch. But keep in mind, the tour is a bus-only experience — you won’t be hopping off at each site, which might be a downside if you prefer more hands-on exploration.

This tour is best suited for fans of “All Creatures Great and Small,” countryside lovers, and those interested in small-group guided experiences. It’s ideal if you want a comprehensive, comfortable way to explore the Dales without the hassle of self-driving, and if you’re happy to absorb the scenery from the bus.

Key Points

• Comfortable small group: With only 16 seats, the tour feels intimate and allows for better interaction with your guide.
• Expert guides: Reviewers consistently praise guides like John, Trevor, and Barry for their knowledge, humor, and storytelling skills.
• Iconic filming locations: From Darrowby Village in Grassington to Wharfedale’s landscape, you’ll see the spots that brought the series to life.
• Historic sites: Bolton Castle and Wensleydale Creamery add cultural depth to your countryside adventure.
• Scenic drives: Expect breathtaking views of the Yorkshire Dales like Yockenthwaite and Wensleydale, perfect for photography.
• Value for money: At just over $100, the tour includes entrance to Bolton Castle and cheese tastings, making it a budget-friendly option for a full day out.

An in-depth look at the Yorkshire Dales “All Creatures Great and Small” Tour

The Itinerary and What to Expect

This tour kicks off at Coach Stop A, right next to York Railway Station, early in the morning. From there, your guide — likely someone like John, Trevor, or Barry — takes the wheel of a comfortable 16-seat coach. The small group size means you’re not just another number; it’s easier to ask questions and enjoy a more personal experience.

The first major highlight is Grassington, which doubles as Darrowby Village in the new series. Here, you’ll see the Drovers Arms pub and Skeldale House, instantly recognizable to fans. The guide will give you insights into how the locations were chosen and filmed, adding depth to your viewing experience. Many reviewers mention how engaging their guides were, often sharing fun anecdotes and detailed history.

Next, the tour visits Wharfedale, renowned for its sweeping scenery that’s perfect for those breathtaking landscape shots. This area inspired many of the show’s rural scenes and offers a view you’ll want to capture. The stop at Yockenthwaite is particularly special, as it’s the farm where Helen and James share their first kiss in the new series — a top photo opportunity for fans.

A visit to St. Michael’s in Hubberholme is next, where the wedding of James and Helen was filmed. The church’s picturesque setting and surrounding countryside make it a favorite for visitors. The tour then moves on to Swaledale and Wensleydale, where old series scenes of landscape were shot, giving you a glimpse of the real-life backdrop to Herriot’s adventures.

Bolton Castle is a stand-out for history buffs. Not only is it visually impressive with its 600-year history, but it’s also where the real James Herriot proposed to his wife. The tour includes entrance to the castle grounds, so you can explore its turrets, towers, and stories of medieval life, civil wars, and royal prisoners.

The Wheatsheaf Inn in Carperby is another charming stop. It’s a place where James and Helen honeymooned in real life, which adds a romantic touch to your journey. The inn’s cozy ambiance and idyllic surroundings make it a lovely pause before heading back to York.

The final stops in Hawes and Askrigg complete the tour. Hawes features the cattle market and country club that appeared in the series, while Askrigg is the actual village that stood in for Darrowby in the original series. Here, you’ll see the iconic Drovers Arms again and visit Holy Trinity Church in Wensley, where James and Helen also tied the knot onscreen.

Transportation and Group Size

Traveling on a 16-seat minibus means the experience is quite intimate, allowing for better interaction with guides and fellow travelers. The coach is described as comfortable, making the long day (around 8.5 hours) more enjoyable. The driver and guide are fluent in English and are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, often sharing engaging stories and historical insights.

Value and Cost Considerations

At $109.11 per ticket, the tour offers a lot of value. It includes entrance to Bolton Castle and cheese tastings at Wensleydale Creamery, which alone could cost more if booked separately. The guided commentary and scenic drives provide a hassle-free way of seeing numerous locations without worrying about navigation or parking.

While food and additional entry fees aren’t included, the tour’s price point is reasonable considering the full-day experience and the quality of the guides. Many reviewers mention that guides like John and Trevor go out of their way to make the trip memorable with their humor, storytelling, and local knowledge.

Authenticity and Viewer Insights

Reviewers highlight how guides provide detailed background stories and share fun facts that deepen your appreciation of the series and the landscape. For instance, one reviewer remarked how their guide John shared anecdotes about the filming locations, making the experience more lively and engaging.

The scenery itself is often described as breathtaking, with many reviewers noting that the landscapes exceeded their expectations. The stops at Yockenthwaite and Wharfedale offer particularly stunning views that are perfect for photography. The tour’s ability to combine film locations with natural beauty, historic sites, and cheese tasting makes it a well-rounded experience.

Practicalities

The meeting point is right next to York Railway Station, making it convenient for most travelers. The tour departs at 09:00, and travelers are advised to arrive at least 5 minutes early, as the guide cannot wait for latecomers. The tour is not suitable for children under 5, and pets are not permitted, though assistance dogs are allowed.

You might want to bring snacks or water, as food and drinks are not included. The tour is flexible with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, adding peace of mind for spontaneous travelers.

The Sum Up

For fans of “All Creatures Great and Small” or anyone enamored with the countryside, this Yorkshire Dales tour offers a compelling mix of film history, natural beauty, and historical sites. The small-group setting coupled with knowledgeable guides ensures a personalized experience, rich with stories and scenic views. The visit to Bolton Castle and the cheese tasting at Wensleydale Creamery add extra layers of enjoyment, making the trip feel well worth the price.

Even if you’re not a die-hard fan, the landscape alone makes this a worthwhile journey. The tour manages to combine the charm of rural England with the storytelling that makes Herriot’s world so captivating. It’s a fantastic way to see the Dales without the stress of driving or planning, perfect for those wanting a relaxed, informative day out.

If you’re after authentic scenery, engaging guides, and a slice of TV history, this tour is likely to check all your boxes. It’s especially ideal for travelers who enjoy small-group experiences and value local insights alongside stunning views.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8.5 hours, starting around 09:00 from York and ending back at the same meeting point.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Coach Stop A, opposite Memorial Gardens on Leeman Road, just a 5-minute walk from York Railway Station, and returns to the same spot.

Are there any food options included?
Food and drinks are not included in the tour price. However, the Wensleydale Creamery offers cheese tasting, and there are stops at charming villages with cafes and inns.

Is there a dress code or recommended clothing?
Since the tour involves scenic drives and outdoor stops, comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes are advisable, especially if you wish to explore sites like Bolton Castle.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your travel plans shift unexpectedly.

Are children allowed on the tour?
The minimum age requirement is 5 years old, and children under that are not permitted. Pets are also not allowed, except assistance dogs.

Do I need to prepare anything in particular?
Just bring a camera for photos, some water, and a sense of curiosity. Your guides will do the rest, sharing stories and insights along the way.

This guided “All Creatures Great and Small” tour from York balances scenic beauty, TV nostalgia, and cultural exploration, all wrapped into a manageable day trip. It’s a perfect choice for those wanting to experience the Yorkshire Dales in comfort and style while soaking up stories about one of Britain’s most beloved series.