Last updated: July 21, 2026
Few stories capture the warmth of the Yorkshire Dales like All Creatures Great and Small. Whether you grew up with the books, loved the original series or have been swept up by the recent reboot, the world of James Herriot is real — and you can walk right into it.
James Herriot: the story behind the stories
James Herriot was the pen name of Alf Wight, a real-life veterinary surgeon who practised in the Yorkshire Dales. His much-loved series began with If Only They Could Talk in 1970, drawing on his authentic experiences treating animals and meeting rural Yorkshire folk during the 1930s and 1940s. The stories brim with humour, compassion and a deep appreciation for the rhythms of the countryside — and they became international bestsellers, resonating especially with readers drawn to a slower, more grounded way of life.
Filming the Yorkshire Dales
Both the original adaptation and the recent reboot stayed faithful to the source by filming in the real Yorkshire Dales. The contemporary series was shot almost entirely on location: the village of Grassington stands in for the fictional Darrowby, with its cobbled streets, stone cottages and rolling hills, while further filming took place around the Bolton Abbey estate, the Yorkshire Three Peaks and the moorland near Malham Cove. Many of these places sit within easy reach for a day tour, or a multi-day expedition.
Meet the cast bringing Darrowby to life
- Nicholas Ralph plays James Herriot with earnest, big-hearted warmth, having trained with real veterinary professionals for authenticity.
- Samuel West (The Crown, Mr Selfridge) brings nuanced complexity to Siegfried Farnon, balancing gruffness with genuine care.
- Callum Woodhouse (The Durrells) gives Tristan Farnon a playful mischief with real emotional depth.
- Rachel Shenton, an Oscar-winning actress, plays Helen Alderson with quiet strength and tenderness.
What makes Yorkshire the star of the show
Yorkshire functions as a character in its own right. Sweeping landscapes, unpredictable weather and resilient communities shape the storylines and the people within them. The core themes — community, kindness, perseverance — are intrinsically Yorkshire values. For many viewers, the county embodies the quintessential English countryside, a place to slow down and reconnect with nature. Its famous Yorkshire sheep appear throughout.
Fun facts for fellow fans
- The contemporary series was filmed in Ultra HD to fully capture the beauty of the Dales.
- Production teams worked with local farmers to keep the livestock scenes realistic and respectful.
- Local villagers frequently appeared as extras.
- Alf Wight (James Herriot) is buried in Thirlby, a small Yorkshire village near his home and workplace.
- The original series' veterinary practice, in Askrigg, still attracts visitors today.
A taste of Yorkshire: traditional pub lunches
Food and shared tables run quietly through Herriot's stories, from farmhouse breakfasts to post-call pub visits. On our All Creatures Great and Small tour, that atmosphere continues with a classic Dales pub lunch — low beams, a winter fire and traditional menus of steak-and-ale pie, fish and chips and Sunday roasts. Being private, we can choose a remote rustic inn or a well-loved village local to suit you; our food & drink guide has more.
Walk in the footsteps of James Herriot
Our All Creatures tour lets you explore the filming locations first-hand, guided by locals with behind-the-scenes knowledge. It turns sightseeing into stepping into a cherished story. To plan your own day in Darrowby, get in touch.
