Why visit the World of James Herriot in Thirsk?
The World of James Herriot is the original home and veterinary surgery of Alf Wight — the real James Herriot — whose “All Creatures Great and Small” stories have charmed millions worldwide. Located at 23 Kirkgate in Thirsk, North Yorkshire, this multi-award-winning museum opened to the public in 1999 after Hambleton District Council spent £1.4 million purchasing and refurbishing the building. The attraction was voted Best Small Visitor Attraction 2024 at the Visit York Tourism Awards.
To skip the explanation and book your World of James Herriot tickets, head here.
Step through the famous red door and you’re transported to July 1940, when young Scottish vet Alf Wight arrived to start work at Donald Sinclair’s veterinary surgery. The 1940s home, surgery, dispensary, reception area, consulting rooms, and kitchens have been meticulously restored with original furnishings and fittings, allowing visitors to experience veterinary life as it was during the 40s.
Beyond the restored rooms, the museum houses recreated TV sets from both the original 1978 BBC series and the recent Channel 5 production, behind-the-scenes displays with props and costumes, over 4,000 items showcasing veterinary science history, and the largest collection of James Herriot memorabilia under one roof. The original Austin Seven car from the film It Shouldn’t Happen To A Vet is on display, and an interactive children’s gallery lets visitors try their hand at veterinary skills — matching x-rays, testing speed and fitness, and even attempting to birth a calf.
The museum also features the Alf Wight memorial statue in the garden, a World War II air raid shelter experience, and exhibitions about The Yorkshire Vet television series. Since the Channel 5 reboot of “All Creatures Great and Small,” the museum has seen a surge in international visitors who recognise this as “the England they know” — a nostalgic glimpse into rural Yorkshire life.
Why book the “All Creatures Great and Small” Tour of Yorkshire from York?
- Rural Yorkshire experience: Explore charming villages and quintessential countryside — get a real taste of Yorkshire’s heritage and landscape.
- Historic and scenic highlights: Visit iconic spots associated with regional history and enjoy dramatic scenery that defines northern England.
- Small-group tour format: Travel in a more personalised group allows for a relaxed pace and better interaction with the guide.
- All-in-one day trip from York: Includes transport, guidance, and visits — ideal if you want a hassle-free introduction to Yorkshire countryside without having to plan logistics.
- Great for fans of countryside and culture: Perfect for travellers wanting a mix of rural charm, local history, and peaceful landscapes far from city bustle.
What to see at the World of James Herriot
Walking through the restored 1940s rooms, you’ll see the surgery where Alf Wight examined countless animals, the dispensary where medications were prepared, the living quarters where he relaxed after long days on the road, and the study where he wrote his beloved books. Original equipment, period furniture, and authentic details recreate the atmosphere of post-war Yorkshire veterinary practice.
The Veterinary Science Rooms upstairs display over 4,000 items tracing veterinary medicine from the 1940s to today. Interactive exhibits throughout the museum engage visitors of all ages, with games, quizzes, and hands-on activities. Documentary films provide behind-the-scenes looks at both TV adaptations.
The recent “All Creatures Great and Small” exhibition features sets and props from the Channel 5 series, whilst displays about the original BBC version include costumes and memorabilia that will delight longtime fans.
Visiting the World of James Herriot: practical information
World of James Herriot opening hours and admission
The World of James Herriot in Thirsk operates different seasonal hours. During summer season (from 1st March), the museum opens daily from 9.30am to 5.00pm with last admission at 4.00pm. During winter season (from 1st November), the World of James Herriot opens daily from 10.00am to 4.00pm with last admission at 3.00pm. The museum closes on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Day.
Admission prices to the World of James Herriot are £8.50 for adults, and £5 for children (4 to 16 years). Children aged 3 and under receive free admission to the World of James Herriot.
Visitors to the World of James Herriot should allow approximately 90 minutes for a self-guided tour, though many spend longer exploring the extensive displays. Tickets are valid for one day only and do not usually require advance booking, though purchasing online is recommended.
Getting to the World of James Herriot Thirsk
The World of James Herriot is located at 23 Kirkgate, Thirsk, North Yorkshire YO7 1PL, in the heart of Thirsk’s historic town centre. Thirsk itself sits just off the A19 and A168, making it easily accessible by car from across Yorkshire. The town has a railway station with connections to York and Middlesbrough.
By car: Thirsk is approximately 25 miles north of York and 30 miles south of Middlesbrough. From the A1(M), take the A168 towards Thirsk. Street parking (2 hours free) is available outside the museum on Kirkgate, and several town centre car parks are within a 2-minute walk of the World of James Herriot. Coach drop-off facilities are available.
By train: Thirsk railway station is within walking distance of the museum in the town centre.
By bus: Various bus services connect Thirsk with surrounding towns and villages.
World of James Herriot accessibility and facilities
The World of James Herriot is fully accessible to visitors with reduced mobility, due to ramps and lifts. All areas are wheelchair and pushchair-friendly, with designated storage areas for pushchairs when not in use. The museum welcomes assistance dogs. Toilets and baby-changing facilities are available on site.
Photography is permitted throughout the World of James Herriot museum. The gift shop stocks exclusive Herriot souvenirs, books, and Yorkshire treats, and can be visited without paying museum admission. There is no café on site, but Thirsk town centre — directly outside — offers numerous cafés, pubs, and restaurants within easy walking distance.
Tips for visiting the World of James Herriot Thirsk
- Book tickets online in advance if you can — it’ll save faffing when you arrive.
- Allow the full 90 minutes recommended — there’s genuinely more to see than expected.
- Visit during weekdays outside school holidays for quieter experiences.
- Bring your email receipt if booking online — it serves as your ticket.
- Dogs (except assistance dogs) are not permitted inside the museum — consider arrangements if travelling with pets.
- Combine your visit with exploring Thirsk’s historic market square, which operates on Mondays and Saturdays with local produce and Yorkshire specialities.
- The museum is bigger than it appears from outside — visitors consistently report being surprised by how much there is to explore.
- Group visits and school trips are welcome — contact the museum to arrange.
- Visit the Thirsk Museum, birthplace of Thomas Lord (founder of Lord’s Cricket Ground) nearby.
- Consider staying overnight in Thirsk to fully explore Herriot Country attractions.
Nearby attractions to the World of James Herriot
Thirsk’s historic market square with its distinctive clock tower and Georgian buildings surrounds the museum. The Birds of Prey Centre offers flying displays with eagles, hawks, and owls. The Ritz Cinema is one of Britain’s oldest continuously operating cinemas, and Thirsk Hall’s Sculpture Garden brings art out into the open.
York, with its Minster, medieval streets, and numerous museums, is a short drive south. The Yorkshire Dales National Park provides spectacular scenery that inspired the “All Creatures Great and Small” stories.
More Yorkshire travel
Other Yorkshire travel articles on Planet Whitley include:
- A practical guide to visiting the Yorkshire Wildlife Park.
- A practical guide to visiting Pontefract Castle.
- What first time visitors need to know about visiting Whitby Abbey.
- A practical guide to visiting the Captain Cook Memorial Museum in Whitby.
- How to visit Hardraw Force, England’s tallest waterfall.
