Yorkshire: All Creatures Great and Small Mini-Coach Tour

Experience Yorkshire’s Charm and TV Fame in One Day

If you’ve ever loved the gentle humor and heartfelt stories of James Herriot, this All Creatures Great and Small Mini-Coach Tour offers a delightful way to see the countryside that inspired his stories. Starting from York, this 9-hour adventure costs around $108 per person and takes you through the iconic Yorkshire Dales, Darrowby village, and filming sites from both the latest Channel 5 adaptation and the classic BBC series from the 1970s. Along the way, you’ll visit the world-famous James Herriot museum, stroll through the charming villages, and even enjoy a pint in the historic Drovers Arms.

Two things we particularly love about this tour: first, the attention to detail in visiting exact locations used in the TV shows, giving fans a tangible connection to the stories; second, the expert guide, like John S., who brings history, humor, and local flavor alive with enthusiastic commentary.

A possible consideration? The group size is limited, and the tour involves quite a bit of walking and standing, which might be challenging for travelers with mobility issues.

This tour is perfect if you’re a TV fan, a lover of rural scenery, or simply looking for a full day immersed in Yorkshire’s natural beauty and culture. It suits those who appreciate historic sites, a personal guide’s insights, and a good dose of local charm.

Key Points

• Authentic Locations: Visit more than 15 filming sites from both the original and modern series.
• Cultural Highlights: Includes entry to the James Herriot museum and visits to Darrowby village.
• Scenic Beauty: Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Yorkshire Dales, often praised for their pristine condition.
• Expert Guides: Guides like John S. are highly rated for their friendliness and knowledge.
• Value for Money: For around $108, you get transport, entry fees, and a full day of sightseeing.
• Limited Mobility: Not suitable for travelers with mobility issues due to walking and standing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Yorkshire: All Creatures Great and Small Mini-Coach Tour

What the Tour Offers and Why It Matters

This tour is designed for fans of the James Herriot books and TV series, but it’s also a wonderful experience for anyone interested in rural Yorkshire and filming locations. The fact that it’s a small-group tour means you’ll get a more personal experience, with plenty of opportunity for questions and photos. Starting from central York, the tour packs in a variety of locations, making it a rich day out.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting at the ‘World of James Herriot’:
Your first stop is at this museum, which offers a nostalgic peek into the life of the famous vet Alf Wight, the real-life inspiration behind James Herriot. The site includes a former surgery and the home of Alf Wight, allowing you to appreciate the setting that brought his stories to life. Many visitors, including one reviewer, praised guide John S. for his knowledge and engaging storytelling, which enhances the experience.

Darrowby Village, the Heart of the Show:
Next, you’ll visit Darrowby, the fictional village that fans will recognize immediately. Here, you can take a short walking tour to see the exterior of the Drovers Arms, Darrowby Cattle Market, and Skeldale House, the veterinary practice. These sites are not just set dressings but are rooted in actual locations, giving you a tangible connection to the stories. The highlight for many is the chance to see where James proposed to Helen or where he and Helen got married, adding a romantic touch to the day.

Lunch at Hardraw:
A real treat is stopping in Hardraw, where you’ll dine at a pub that was used as the interior of The Drovers Arms, seen in many episodes. The fact that you’re eating where the show’s scenes were filmed adds to the authenticity, and many guests mention this as a memorable part of the tour.

Filming Sites from the Original and New Series:
Post-lunch, the tour visits a series of locations from both the classic BBC series and the latest adaptation. These include Darrowby Church, Darrowby Hardwares, and J. A. Dean Drapers. Each site offers a glimpse into the show’s filming process and the consistent charm of Yorkshire life.

Remote Darrowby Village and Refreshments:
The tour then ventures into a more remote village that doubles as the fictional Darrowby in the newer series. Here, you can take a breather, explore the shops like Handleys Booksellers or Grocers, and enjoy some local refreshments. The guide will point out sites like G F Endleby, Handleys, and Darrowby Cycle Shop—details that fans will find particularly rewarding.

Scenic Drive and Return to York:
Throughout the day, expect breathtaking views of the rolling hills and lush pastures. As one reviewer put it, the Dales were at their best, with the weather adding a special glow to the scenery. The tour concludes back at the initial meeting point, leaving you with a full day of Yorkshire’s natural and cinematic beauty.

What to Expect in Terms of Comfort and Logistics

The transportation is by a 16-seater minivan, making the journey intimate and less rushed. The tour lasts about 9 hours, so comfortable shoes are essential, especially since there’s some walking involved at each stop. Your guide, like John S. praised in reviews, will provide entertaining and informative commentary throughout the day.

Entry to the James Herriot Museum is included, giving you a chance to explore further if you wish. However, note that food and drink are not included, so bringing snacks or planning to purchase lunch at Hardraw is advisable.

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The Experience From a Traveler’s Perspective

Guests have consistently praised the knowledgeable guides and the authenticity of the locations. One reviewer remarked, “John S. was congenial, funny, and so knowledgeable. We loved our tour with him!” Another appreciated the value for the price, especially given the full day of sightseeing, museum entry, and transportation.

Many visitors comment that the tour exceeded their expectations, praising the scenery and the chance to see TV locations in real life. The small group size was frequently mentioned as a plus—more opportunity to ask questions and take photos.

Potential Drawbacks

While the tour is well-loved, some travelers with mobility issues might find the walking portions challenging, especially in village settings with uneven pathways. Also, since food and drinks are not included, you’ll want to plan accordingly.

Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

If you’re a fan of James Herriot, watching the series or reading the books, this tour offers a deeply personal connection to the stories you love. The authentic filming locations make the stories come alive, and the scenic drive through the Yorkshire Dales is worth every penny. It’s a great way to combine literary and television nostalgia with genuine countryside exploration.

For those interested in local culture and historic villages, the stops at Darrowby and Hardraw provide a chance to see real rural life in Yorkshire, beyond the usual tourist spots. Plus, the expert guides make the experience informative and engaging.

The Sum Up

This All Creatures Great and Small Mini-Coach Tour offers a well-balanced mix of TV history, scenic scenery, and local charm. For around $108, you get a full day of expertly guided exploration, authentic filming sites, and a chance to see Yorkshire at its most picturesque. It’s ideal for TV fans, countryside lovers, or anyone wanting a personalized, authentic Yorkshire experience.

The tour’s small group size and dedicated guides make for a more intimate and rewarding day. If you’re looking to deepen your appreciation for the stories of James Herriot or simply want to enjoy Yorkshire’s rolling hills and historic villages, this tour deserves a spot on your list.

For those who crave authentic locations, engaging guides, and scenic beauty, this tour offers excellent value and a heartfelt connection to Yorkshire’s beloved stories.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally child-friendly, the walking involved and the length of the day might be best suited for older children or teens who can manage 9 hours on a bus and walking around villages.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers transportation in a mini-coach, entry to the James Herriot museum, and the full commentary from an expert guide.

Are food and drinks provided?
No, meals and beverages are not included, so plan to bring snacks or purchase lunch during the stop at Hardraw.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, as there will be some walking and standing. Yorkshire weather can be unpredictable, so dressing in layers and bringing rain gear is advisable.

How many locations will we visit?
You’ll visit more than 15 locations, including key filming sites from both the original and current TV series, as well as the James Herriot museum and Darrowby village.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility impairments?
This tour is not suitable for those with mobility impairments due to walking and uneven village terrain.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, starting from central York with check-in times available based on the schedule.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for travelers’ changing plans.

Whether you’re a dedicated fan or simply love Yorkshire’s natural beauty and charming villages, this tour offers a memorable way to experience the landscapes and stories that made James Herriot famous.

You can check availability for your dates here: