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

Planning a trip to York and craving a deeper dive into the picturesque Yorkshire Dales? This All Creatures Great and Small tour promises an engaging journey through the landscapes that inspired James Herriot, creator of the beloved series. With its easy charm, knowledgeable guides, and an array of filming sites, it’s a popular choice for fans and casual travelers alike.

What really draws us in are the beautiful scenery and the authentic locations from the TV series, making it a visual treat. Plus, the chance to visit the Wensleydale Creamery for cheese tasting and explore classic villages like Hawkshead makes this trip feel both fun and tasty. On the flip side, some travelers note that certain stops can feel a bit rushed, especially at busier sites, so managing expectations about time is good. This tour is best suited for those who love scenic drives, picturesque villages, and a dash of TV nostalgia.

Key Points

• Well-rated guides bring the Yorkshire Dales to life with stories and local knowledge.
• Stunning scenery that truly captures the essence of the filming locations and natural beauty.
• Interesting stops, from Bolton Castle to Wensleydale Creamery, offer a mix of history, food, and photo opportunities.
• Limited walking, as the tour is all on the bus, making it accessible for most travelers.
• Roughly 8.5 hours, so it’s a full day but generally well-paced.
• Small group size (up to 15 people) means a more personalized experience.

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What to Expect from the Tour

This guided day trip from York is designed to give you a thorough look at the Yorkshire Dales, focusing heavily on filming locations for the All Creatures series. You’ll be traveling with a small group, which enhances the atmosphere and allows for a more intimate experience.

The tour kicks off at Coach Stop A on Leeman Road, just a short walk from York railway station. From there, the bus departs at around 09:00, and the journey begins with lively commentary from your guide, who will keep you entertained and informed throughout the day.

Filming Locations in the Dales

Your guide will take you to places like Grassington, which doubled as Darrowby Village in the new series, where you can see Skeldale House and the Drovers Arms. These sites are instantly recognizable for fans and provide great photo opportunities. The tour also visits Askrigg, used as the original Darrowby, with its iconic Drovers Arms and Skeldale House.

The scenic landscapes featured in the TV shows are just as impressive in real life. Expect to see Wharfedale, Yockenthwaite (where Helen’s farm was filmed and where James and Helen share their first kiss in the new series), and Yore’s famous valleys—places that look like they’ve been plucked right out of a storybook.

Historic and Picturesque Stops

The tour isn’t just about TV. You’ll visit Bolton Castle, a 600-year-old fortress with a long history—think royal connections, sieges, and even Mary Queen of Scots’ imprisonment. It’s also where James Herriot proposed to his wife, making it a significant spot for fans of the books and series alike.

In Carperby, the Wheatsheaf Inn offers a glimpse into the real-life honeymoon spot of James and Helen, giving the day a personal touch. You’ll also swing by Wensleydale for its famous cheese and scenery, plus Swaledale for more landscape vistas that have featured in classic episodes.

Food and a Little Indulgence

One of the highlights is a stop at the Wensleydale Creamery, where cheese tasting is included—perfect for cheese lovers or anyone wanting to take home a delicious souvenir. According to reviews, many find the tastings to be a delightful part of the experience, and it’s a good break for some socializing and browsing.

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The Whole Day in Perspective

The tour lasts for about 8.5 hours, making it a full but manageable day. The bus is modern and comfortable, with windows that give plenty of opportunity for photos and taking in the scenery. You won’t be getting off at every location, but the stops are well spaced to avoid fatigue. Reviewers mention that the balance of sightseeing, storytelling, and photo opportunities is generally well managed, although a few found the time at certain stops a little rushed.

The Guide and Group Dynamics

The guides are consistently praised for their knowledgeable, friendly, and engaging commentary. Multiple reviews mention how guides like Trevor, John, Ben, and others make the day special with stories, humor, and local insights. For example, one reviewer notes, “Trevor was very knowledgeable and the tour was worth every penny,” highlighting how guides elevate the experience.

The small group size (up to 15 participants) contributes to a relaxed, conversational vibe, allowing everyone to ask questions and enjoy a more personalized trip. Many reviews mention how the guides’ storytelling and attentiveness made the day memorable.

Practical Details

• Price: While the actual cost isn’t specified here, reviews suggest good value considering the duration, inclusion of stops, and guided commentary.
• Booking flexibility: You can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, which is a nice perk for flexible planning.
• Accessibility: The tour is suitable for most travelers with a minimum age of 5, and because it’s all on the bus, it’s accessible and comfortable.
• No pets allowed (except assistance dogs), and children under 5 aren’t suitable for this trip.

What We Loved Most

The guides consistently garner praise for their friendly demeanor and depth of knowledge—many reviews mention how they made the day fun and informative. The scenery is, of course, a major star, with multiple stops offering picture-perfect views that look like they’re straight out of a postcard.

The cheese tasting at Wensleydale Creamery is a clear highlight for many, adding a delicious local flavor to the day. Not to forget, Bolton Castle’s mix of history and animals (like the wild boars and birds of prey) makes it a lively and interactive ending to the trip.

The Slight Downsides

A few reviews mention that some stops feel a bit rushed, especially at busy sites like Bolton Castle or Grassington. If you’re a keen photographer or want more time to explore, this might be a minor frustration. However, most feel that the overall balance is fair, and the guides do their best to accommodate.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This experience is an excellent pick for TV fans and scenery lovers alike. If you’ve enjoyed the All Creatures series or books, it’s a chance to see the settings come alive. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the breathtaking landscapes, and history buffs will find Bolton Castle engaging.

It’s less suited for those who prefer a lot of walking or detailed exploration at each stop—since the tour is primarily a scenic drive with brief stops, active travelers should be aware of this.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, but only for children aged 5 and above. The tour involves sitting on the bus for most of the day, so it’s best for kids who can tolerate that comfortably.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 8.5 hours, with departure at 09:00 from Coach Stop A. It’s a full-day experience.

Do I need to pay upfront?
You can reserve your spot now and pay later, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the tour.

Are pets allowed?
No, pets are not permitted on the tour except assistance dogs.

What stops are included?
Stops include Grassington, Yockenthwaite, Bolton Castle, Wensleydale Creamery, Askrigg, and Hawes, among others. No long walks are required, and you’ll mainly take photos and enjoy the scenery from the bus.

Is the guide knowledgeable?
Absolutely. Reviews repeatedly highlight guides like Trevor, John, and Ben for their friendliness and detailed commentary about the sites and the series.

Can I expect good scenery?
Yes, the Yorkshire Dales are stunning, and the tour offers many chances for photo opportunities of the valleys, villages, and historic sites.

Is the cost justified?
Considering the included stops, cheese tasting, and guided commentary, most find the price reasonable for a well-organized, full-day experience.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a comprehensive, scenic, and TV-inspired trip through the Yorkshire Dales, this tour from York hits many of the right notes. It offers a solid mix of beautiful landscapes, charming villages, and series filming locations that will resonate with fans and first-timers alike.

The guides’ warmth and knowledge truly add value, making the day more than just sightseeing. While some sites might feel a little rushed, most travelers leave with incredible photos, new stories, and a deeper appreciation for the landscape that inspired James Herriot.

This experience suits those who love scenic drives, historic sites, and a bit of TV nostalgia. If you’re after an easy, well-organized day without lots of walking, it’s a standout option for exploring the best of the Dales in comfort and style.

Enjoy your trip and hopefully this review helps you decide if it’s the right fit for your Yorkshire adventure!

You can check availability for your dates here: