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

Discover the charm of Yorkshire’s landscape and beloved TV series on the Full-Day Discovering All Creatures Great and Small Tour. Costing around $109.66 per person, and often booked 3 months in advance, this nine-hour journey offers a well-rounded look at the countryside and the BBC’s beloved adaptation of James Herriot’s stories. Led by a friendly driver-guide, you’ll hop between the original filming locations, enjoy scenic vistas in the Yorkshire Dales, and get exclusive access to the World of James Herriot attraction, making for a satisfying day for fans and curious travelers alike.

What I really appreciate about this tour is how it balances film location spotting with genuine countryside sightseeing. The stops at Skipton, a picture-perfect village with guided insights, and Hardraw Force, where you’ll have a drink at the pub that doubled as The Drovers Arms, add layers of authentic charm. Plus, the admission to the James Herriot Museum gives a deeper sense of the stories behind the series, which many visitors find highly rewarding. The other highlight is how flexible and accommodating the tour leader is, answering questions and sharing anecdotes.

One possible consideration is that, while the scenic views and TV nostalgia are the main draws, the guide’s level of detail about James Herriot’s story varies. A few reviews mention guides who didn’t have extensive knowledge about the series, so if you’re looking for a deep dive into the TV show itself, you might want to check the guide’s background. Still, for most, the experience feels personal and engaging. The small group size—max 15 travelers—also helps create a friendly, intimate atmosphere.

Key Points

• Authentic film locations bring the stories of James Herriot to life in the stunning Yorkshire countryside.
• Flexible, friendly guides enhance the experience with stories and answering questions, adding a personal touch.
• Beautiful scenery and charming villages like Skipton offer picturesque moments and a taste of rural Yorkshire life.
• Included entry to the James Herriot Museum makes this tour especially appealing to fans, offering a deeper connection to the stories.
• Convenient day trip from York with a comfortable mini-van, allowing you to sit back and enjoy the views without the hassle of driving.
• Some reviews note variable storytelling about the TV series, so if your main interest is in the show, double-check guide backgrounds or be prepared for a general Yorkshire adventure.

Exploring Every Corner: A Complete Breakdown of the Tour

The full-day Yorkshire film locations tour kicks off at 9:00 am in York’s Memorial Gardens. Being picked up in a small, comfortable minivan means you won’t feel lost in a crowd—perfect for a more personal experience. The driver, often the guide, combines knowledgeable commentary with a friendly attitude, sharing tidbits about the local area and filming sites.

World of James Herriot

Your first stop is the World of James Herriot attraction, which includes free entry. This museum effectively transports visitors into the life and times of Alf Wight, the real veterinary who inspired the stories. Here, you can explore the original home of the series, see authentic memorabilia, and get a good sense of the animal-filled world that inspired countless episodes. Based on reviews, many visitors mention spending quality time here—it’s a highlight for fans wanting to deepen their appreciation or for first-timers interested in the rural vet life.

Skipton: The Pretty Village

Next, the tour moves to Skipton, often called the “Gateway to the Dales”. You’ll enjoy a guided walk around this lovely town, learning about how it’s been a filming backdrop, not just for All Creatures but also for many other stories. The guided aspect here adds a layer of context, making the visit more engaging than just wandering on your own. One reviewer raved that their guide kept things on track and shared “lots of interesting stories about the history of the Dales,” making this stop a real treat.

Hardraw Force and The Drovers Arms

The third stop is Hardraw Force, England’s highest un Waterfall, providing stunning scenery and photo opportunities. From there, you’ll take a short walk or drive to the Drovers Arms pub, known in the show as the interior of The Drovers Arms. Having a drink or a quick break here really accentuates the sense of connecting TV and real life, especially for fans who want to see the actual filming location. Reviewers call the pub “a wonderful spot,” appreciating the relaxed atmosphere.

Scenic Drive through the Yorkshire Dales

The core of this tour is the scenic drive that showcases the rolling hills, lush pastures, and traditional stone barns of the Yorkshire Dales. The driver’s commentary often includes stories about the area’s history and how it contributed to the idyllic setting of the series. Passengers love how the views are so captivating—they often remark that the countryside alone is worth the trip.

Ending in York

The tour concludes back in York after approximately 6.5 hours of sightseeing, leaving you time to explore the city or relax after the day’s adventure.

The Value of the Experience

At just over $100, this tour offers excellent value for the combination of sightseeing, TV history, and countryside scenery. The admission to the James Herriot Museum is included, which is a major plus. The small group size (max 15 travelers) means more personalized attention than larger coach tours, making it a good choice for those who want a more intimate experience. The tour is also suitable for most travelers, as it is accessible and designed to be enjoyable without strenuous activity.

What stands out in reviews is the knowledgeable guides and excellent scenery. For example, “John our tour guide maneuvering, driving and commentary along the way”—with many commentaries sprinkled with humor and local insights—adds to the trip’s charm. Even visitors who note minor issues with their guide’s depth of knowledge generally agree that the views and atmosphere outweigh any shortcomings.

Possible downsides include the variable storytelling about the TV series—some guides may have limited details on the show’s background. If your main interest is the series itself, you might want to verify the guide’s experience beforehand. Still, most appreciate the overall charm and authenticity of the places visited.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

This experience suits TV series fans, history enthusiasts, and those who love scenic drives through classic Yorkshire landscapes. It’s also an excellent choice for anyone wanting a relaxed, full-day outing that combines culture, countryside, and a dash of nostalgia—all without the stress of organizing transportation or tickets. Families, couples, and solo travelers all find value here, especially given the friendly guide and intimate size of the group.

If you’re someone who appreciates storytelling and scenic beauty equally, this tour offers a nicely balanced introduction to Yorkshire’s rolling hills and its connection to our favorite rural vet tales. It’s a good way to combine a quintessentially British setting with a beloved television legacy.

FAQ: Your Practical Questions Answered

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transportation is provided in a friendly, air-conditioned mini-van, making it easy to sit back and enjoy the scenery without worrying about driving.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, starting at 9:00 am and returning to York in the late afternoon. There’s plenty of time to see the main sites and enjoy the countryside.

Are entry fees included?
Yes, the entry to the World of James Herriot is included in the price, and stops at Skipton and The Drovers Arms are free. You only pay for food or additional activities.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with limited mobility?
Most travelers can participate, and the stops are relatively easy, but if mobility is a concern, check with the tour provider for specific accommodations.

How many people are in the group?
The tour maintains a maximum of 15 travelers, promoting a friendly, personalized experience.

Can I cancel for a refund?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours beforehand for a full refund, offering peace of mind if your plans change.

To sum it up, the Full-Day Discovering All Creatures Great and Small Tour of Yorkshire offers a delightful mix of picturesque scenery, TV history, and charming villages. It’s particularly ideal for fans of the series, those seeking a relaxed scenic adventure, and travelers who enjoy learning from friendly guides. With its well-chosen stops, included museum access, and manageable group size, it provides a memorable slice of Yorkshire life—both on-screen and off.