Two Days in the Footsteps of All Creatures Great and Small

Of course, when visiting Yorkshire on a trip inspired by All Creatures Great and Small, your first stop has to be The World of James Herriot. Famous for being the fully preserved home and surgery of Alf Wight (better known as James Herriot), it offers an authentic glimpse into the life and work of Britain’s most beloved country vet.

Take a leisurely stroll around Thirsk for some shopping and a bite to eat. Top tip: the charming Ritz Cinema, just around the corner from the James Herriot Museum, is a great spot for a photo as it also features in the series!

This 18th century home was used for backdrop scenes in the series and has also famously been featured in many other well-known dramas and TV shows including Gentleman Jack, Mansfield Park, Peaky Blinders, Victoria and Antiques Roadshow. 

Recently refurbished, The Ripon Inn is a welcoming Edwardian hotel in central Ripon. This family-friendly hotel offers 58 stylish rooms (including: doubles, twins, family, accessible, and pet-friendly options). Enjoy home-cooked meals, drinks by an open fire or relax and unwind in the beautiful garden.

Ripon Racecourse, known as “Yorkshire’s Garden Racecourse,” offers a relaxed countryside setting that’s popular with both locals and visitors. It was featured in episode 3 of All Creatures Great and Small, where Siegfried Farnon treats an injured racehorse.

Whether you’re there for the racing or the atmosphere, Ripon makes for a great evening out, with plenty of catering options ranging from quick snacks to sit-down meals.