All Creatures Great & Small tour from York

If you’re looking to step outside the historic walls of York and into the picturesque countryside of Yorkshire, the All Creatures Great & Small tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the heart of England’s north. Priced at $119 and lasting around 8 hours and 15 minutes, this small-group journey takes you through iconic towns like Haworth, Harrogate, and Skipton, with plenty of stops for sightseeing, shopping, and photo opportunities. It’s a great way to experience the rugged beauty, quaint villages, and literary history of the region without the hassle of driving yourself.

Two things we particularly love about this tour: First, the personalized attention afforded by the small group size—just up to 16 travelers means your guide can tailor the experience and answer questions in a relaxed setting. Second, the authenticity of the stops, from the filming locations of beloved TV series to the historic sites like Bolton Castle and Aysgarth Falls, make this more than just a scenic drive.

A possible consideration is the length of the day—there’s quite a bit of driving involved, especially through the Yorkshire Dales, which might be tiring for some. Also, lunch isn’t included, so you’ll want to budget for a meal during the day—Skipton and Harrogate are full of charming cafes and markets to explore.

This tour suits travelers who value local stories and scenery, have a love for British television or literature, and enjoy comfortable, small-group excursions. Whether you’re a first-time visitor to Yorkshire or a dedicated fan of the series or films shot here, you’ll find plenty to enjoy.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Small groups ensure a relaxed, engaging tour with lots of interaction.
• Cultural & Scenic Highlights: Film locations, historic towns, and stunning natural scenery.
• Flexible & Comfortable Transport: Air-conditioned minibus with a knowledgeable guide.
• Authentic Local Flavor: Opportunities for shopping, sampling, and exploring towns like Skipton and Harrogate.
• Cost-Effective: At $119, it offers a comprehensive day out without the hassle of planning.
• Good for First-Time Visitors: An ideal introduction to Yorkshire’s diverse attractions.

Exploring the Yorkshire Countryside: A Detailed Review

When you sign up for the All Creatures Great & Small tour, you’re signing up for a full day of discovering some of Yorkshire’s most beloved spots. From the moment we met at Leeman Road in York, it was clear this was going to be a well-organized and engaging experience. The drop-off and pick-up point at Memorial Gardens is convenient, and the small-group format (capped at 16 travelers) promises a more personal touch, allowing you to ask questions and dive into local lore without feeling lost in a crowd.

The Itinerary Breakdown

First stop: Haworth and the Brontë Legacy
Our journey begins with a quick visit to Darrowby Village, known to fans of the series All Creatures Great & Small as the filming location for the fictional village. Here, you can see the Drovers Arms and Skeldale House, which are must-sees for TV enthusiasts. The guide, Ben, took extra care to show us these scenes, and it’s easy to see why fans flock here.

Next: Wensleydale Creamery
A highlight for many is the visit to the famous Wensleydale Creamery, where the world-renowned cheese has been made for generations. True cheese lovers will appreciate the chance to see how the cheese is produced and learn about its history, especially since it’s a favorite of Wallace and Gromit. The 45-minute stop includes a tasting, making it a delicious break in the day.

Scenic stop: Aysgarth Falls
A brief 10-minute stop at Aysgarth Falls gives you a chance to snap photos of the cascading waterfalls—an ideal spot for a quick walk and fresh air. The falls are free to visit and provide a striking natural contrast to the villages and towns.

Main attraction: Yorkshire Dales National Park
The core of the tour is the seven-hour exploration of the Dales, where the scenery is truly breathtaking. You’ll pass through landscapes that have served as film sets and inspiration for countless stories. The guide’s commentary on local legends, filming locations, and the area’s natural beauty adds depth to the views.

Final stops: Skipton and Harrogate
In Skipton, we had time to browse lively markets and shops—a perfect chance to pick up souvenirs or simply enjoy the local vibe. Then, in Harrogate, you can unwind with a traditional English afternoon tea at Bettys Tea Rooms (own expense), a treat that many travelers cite as a highlight.

What Travelers Say

Reviews consistently praise the guides—particularly Ben and Barry—for their knowledge, enthusiasm, and attention to detail. One reviewer called Barry “the best guide I’ve ever met,” highlighting how his passion made the day unforgettable. Others appreciated the comfortable small bus and the variety of sights—ranging from historic churches to filming locations and natural waterfalls.

A recurring compliment is about the balance of activities: natural beauty, historic sites, and charming towns. Some wished for slightly more time in certain spots but acknowledged that the extensive itinerary was a fair trade-off for the comprehensive experience.

Many reviews emphasize the value of the tour, noting that for just over $100, they received a full day packed with scenic views, local stories, and cultural highlights—making it an excellent value for those interested in Yorkshire’s landscape and history.

Transportation & Group Size

The air-conditioned minibus provides a comfortable ride through the often winding, scenic roads of the Dales. The small-group setting enhances the experience, giving you the chance to chat with the guide and fellow travelers. With a maximum of 16 participants, it feels more like a day out with friends rather than a large tour bus.

Timing is well-managed, with the entire day thoughtfully planned to maximize sightseeing while allowing for stops and breaks. The tour starts promptly at 9:00 am and concludes back at the same departure point, making it convenient for those staying in York.

Price & Value

At $119, this tour offers a solid value considering the length, locations, and personalized experience. The inclusion of a knowledgeable driver/guide and some admission tickets (like Wensleydale Creamery) adds to the package. Since lunch isn’t included, you’ll want to budget extra for meals—fortunately, Skipton and Harrogate feature many options.

While the cost may seem steep for some, remember that all transportation, guide service, and entry fees are covered, making it easier to relax and enjoy the scenery rather than worry about logistics or extra expenses.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This outing is perfect for TV and film fans, history buffs, and those who love scenic drives through the countryside. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors who want an overview of the Yorkshire Dales without the hassle of planning each stop. The small-group format appeals to travelers seeking a more intimate, relaxed experience.

It also suits those interested in local cheeses, historic sites, and literary connections, like the Brontë sisters. If you’re looking for a comprehensive, well-organized day trip from York that combines scenery, culture, and authentic local flavor, this tour hits the mark.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours and 15 minutes, from the meeting point in York to return back.

What is included in the price?
The price covers transportation in a comfortable minibus, a driver/guide, and some admission tickets like Wensleydale Creamery.

Is food included?
No, lunch and afternoon tea are not included, so plan to bring a snack or enjoy the many cafes available in Skipton and Harrogate.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothes, a camera for all the photo stops, and some spending money for meals and souvenirs.

How big is the group?
The tour is limited to 16 travelers, which helps keep things intimate and allows for personalized attention.

Can children join?
Yes, the minimum age is 5 years old, making it suitable for families with older children and teenagers.

To sum it up, the All Creatures Great & Small tour from York offers a thoughtfully curated experience for those eager to see Yorkshire’s scenic beauty, film and literary history, and charming towns. With expert guides, comfortable transport, and a good mix of activities, it’s a day that balances natural wonder with cultural richness. Whether you’re a fan of the series, a lover of cheese and historic villages, or simply someone wanting a break from city life, this tour provides a memorable slice of Yorkshire life—authentic, scenic, and full of stories waiting to be discovered.