Private “All Creatures Great & Small” Dales Tour from Thirsk

Exploring the Yorkshire Dales with a Private “All Creatures Great & Small” Tour from Thirsk

If you’re a fan of the beloved TV series All Creatures Great & Small, or simply someone eager to experience the rugged charm of the Yorkshire Dales, this private tour promises a tailored way to do both. While we haven’t tried this exact trip ourselves, reviews and detailed itineraries suggest it’s a solid choice for those wanting a full, comfortable day exploring the landscapes and film locations without the hassle of planning every stop.

What we really like about this experience: first, the private aspect means you get a more personal, relaxed vibe, away from the crowds. Second, the carefully curated stops highlight both the scenic beauty and the series’ filming locations, making it a thoughtful mix of scenery and nostalgia. That said, a potential consideration is the price point — at over $800 for a group of four — which may seem steep if you’re budget-conscious or just after a quick look around. But if you value comfort, expert guidance, and a customized route, this tour checks a lot of boxes. It’s best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free day trip with a focus on the Yorkshire Dales’ natural beauty and All Creatures history.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: The private tour ensures a more intimate and flexible day.
• Focus on Film Locations: Perfect for fans wanting to see All Creatures Great & Small filming spots.
• Stunning Scenery: Enjoy breathtaking views of the moors, valleys, and quaint villages.
• Convenient Logistics: Hotel pickup and drop-off make the day smooth.
• In-depth Knowledge: The guide provides insights into local history, folklore, and the area’s highlights.
• Flexible Afternoon: Options include visiting the James Herriot museum or more scenic Dales exploration.

The Itinerary: A Deep Dive Into What You’ll See

Stop 1: Barden

Your adventure kicks off with a visit to Barden, known to fans as one of the filming locations for the new All Creatures Great & Small series. Here, the scenery looks just like it did on screen — rolling hills, stone walls, and lush fields. It’s a quick 10-minute stop, so don’t expect a full walk-around, but it’s a great photo opportunity and gives a solid taste of the area’s visual character. Since admission here is free, you can soak in the views without worrying about extra costs.

Stop 2: Malham

Next, you head to Malham, another filming spot that captures the rugged, open landscapes of the Dales. Malham’s moorland scenery is iconic, often appearing in Yorkshire-based series and movies. Again, a brief 10-minute stop allows you to take in the scenery, which is perfect if you’re short on time but want to see some of the area’s most characteristic landscapes. The fact that these stops are quick but impactful is ideal for those who want a taste rather than a marathon walk.

Stop 3: Hawkswick

Hawkswick is your next quick look at the filming sites. It’s another scenic location where the natural beauty shines through. With just 10 minutes here, the focus is on soaking in the environment — ideal for snapping a few photos. For fans of the series, it’s a neat way to connect the dots between the show and reality.

Stop 4: Burnsall

Moving into Burnsall, you get a slightly longer stop — about 30 minutes. This picturesque village is a highlight, often described as charming and quintessentially Yorkshire. It’s also a filming location, which adds a layer of interest for All Creatures fans. During this time, you can wander around, enjoy the peaceful views, and perhaps grab a quick snack or a coffee in one of the local spots.

Stop 5: Grassington

The main lunchtime stop is Grassington, giving you about an hour to explore. This is probably the most popular spot on the tour, used as the filming location for “Darrowby”, the fictional town in the series. It’s a lively village with a good mix of shops, cafes, and historic buildings, making it an ideal place to relax and stretch your legs after a morning of scenery gazing.

Stop 6: World of James Herriot or More Dales

After lunch, you have a choice: visit the World of James Herriot in Thirsk or continue exploring the Dales more broadly. The James Herriot experience is a wonderful spot for animal lovers and fans of the veterinarian turned author, offering insights into his life and work. Note that entrance fees aren’t included, and the visit lasts about an hour. Alternatively, you can spend the afternoon driving through the scenic countryside, enjoying more of the natural beauty and quiet villages.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour’s main appeal is the personalized touch — you get a friendly, knowledgeable driver, hotel pickup and drop-off, and a private vehicle that’s comfortable and air-conditioned. The stops are frequent enough to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed, and the route is tailored to your group.

However, the entrance fees to attractions like the James Herriot museum aren’t included, so if you’re eager to dive into the authentic stories or see specific exhibits, you’ll need to budget for that separately. Food and drinks are also additional, so bringing some snacks or planning for a meal in Grassington makes sense.

The Experience and Its Value

For many, the real joy of this tour lies in the combination of scenery and storytelling. The guide’s local knowledge means you’ll learn more about the history, folklore, and landscape than you might on your own. The stops at filming locations are brief but meaningful, especially if you’re a fan of the series, making it a compact way to combine TV nostalgia with natural beauty.

The price point at over $800 for a group of four might seem high, but considering the private service, the personalized itinerary, and the convenience of door-to-door transport, it can be good value. It’s particularly suited to travelers who appreciate comfort, want to maximize their sightseeing in one day, and prefer a flexible, tailored experience over self-guided wandering.

Based on the positive reviews, travelers highlight the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views as true standouts. One reviewer mentioned how even the not-so-great weather didn’t dampen their enjoyment, emphasizing the overall quality and flexibility of the experience.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This trip is perfect if you’re looking for a comfortable, all-in-one day tour that covers the main film locations and offers scenic vistas without the hassle of driving or planning logistics. It suits couples, friends, or small groups who want a personalized experience. If you’re a real All Creatures fan or simply want a relaxed way to see the Yorkshire Dales, this tour could be a memorable highlight of your trip.

It’s less ideal if you’re on a tight budget or prefer a very flexible, DIY approach — in which case, you might prefer to rent a car and explore on your own.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children must be accompanied by an adult, and most travelers can participate; however, it’s not recommended for children under 5 years old.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 8 hours and 15 minutes, starting at 9:00 am and ending back at the meeting point in Thirsk.

What’s included in the price?
You get a friendly, local driver, hotel pickup and drop-off, private vehicle, and regular stops for photos and refreshments. Entrance fees and food are extra.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. The tour is private, so only your group participates.

What kind of vehicle is used?
A comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle suitable for your group size, providing a relaxed travel experience.

Are the filming locations far apart?
Most stops are brief and close enough to enjoy without long drives between them. The main focus is on scenery and iconic filming spots.

Is the James Herriot experience included?
No, it’s an optional add-on after lunch; entrance fees aren’t included, so plan accordingly.

What should I wear?
Dress appropriately for the weather, as the tour operates in all conditions. Bring layers, and comfortable shoes are recommended for walking around villages.

To sum it up, this private All Creatures Great & Small Dales tour offers a thoughtful way to see the best of Yorkshire’s landscapes and film history without the stress of planning or navigating. It’s well-suited for those who appreciate comfort, expert insights, and a flexible itinerary, making it an excellent choice for a memorable day in the Dales. If you’re a fan of the series or love the Yorkshire scenery, you’ll likely find this trip a worthwhile addition to your travel plans.