Private “All Creatures Great & Small” Dales Tour from Thirsk

Traveling through the rolling hills and charming villages of the Yorkshire Dales is a quintessential British experience. This private tour offers an 8-hour journey into the scenic landscape made famous not only by its natural beauty but also by the beloved TV series All Creatures Great & Small. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, reviews and detailed itineraries paint a picture of a thoughtfully curated adventure that combines film location sightseeing with authentic Dales charm.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the personalized private experience means you won’t be part of a large group—just your own, making it more comfortable and flexible. Second, the opportunity to see lesser-known hidden gems alongside the popular filming spots allows for a more genuine encounter with the area’s landscape. Third, the insightful commentary from a knowledgeable local driver promises to enrich your understanding of both the scenery and the history behind the landmarks.

A potential consideration is the price point of around $826 for up to four people; while this might seem steep, the private nature, exclusive stops, and comfortable transportation could justify it for fans or those seeking a tailored experience. The tour is well-suited for travelers who enjoy scenic drives, TV series enthusiasts, or visitors looking for a meaningful day outside the busy city environment. However, families with very young children under five might want to check suitability, as the tour isn’t recommended for kids under that age.

In summary, this experience appeals most to those valuing personalized service, beautiful scenery, and a deep dive into All Creatures Great & Small filming locations. The combination of scenery, storytelling, and convenience makes it a memorable way to explore the Yorkshire Dales.

Good To Know

• Private & personalized experience offers tailored sightseeing for your group.
• Visit iconic and hidden filming locations from the All Creatures Great & Small series.
• Comfortable, air-conditioned transport ensures a relaxed journey.
• Expert local driver provides insightful commentary about the area’s history, landscape, and folklore.
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, simplifying logistics.
• Cost reflects the private, exclusive nature of the tour, ideal for fans or those seeking a more intimate experience.

Discovering the Yorkshire Dales: An In-Depth Review

The Itinerary in Detail

This tour kicks off early, with hotel pickup at 9:00 am in Thirsk, ensuring your day begins smoothly. The first stops are Barden and Malham, each spending around 10 minutes. These locations are chosen for their famous scenery used in All Creatures Great & Small, where the lush landscapes and quaint farm buildings evoke the beloved series’ backdrop. While only a quick glimpse, travelers can expect to see authentic filming spots that bring the show’s rural charm to life.

Next, the tour heads to Hawkswick, another brief stop at 10 minutes, focusing on the picturesque scenery that fans recognize from the series. These short visits are perfect for photography and soaking in the views without feeling rushed.

The mid-morning stop at Burnsall lasts about 30 minutes. Here, visitors can walk through a charming village characterized by stone bridges and traditional cottages, making it a perfect spot for soaking up authentic Dales atmosphere. The reviews highlight Burnsall as a “picturesque Yorkshire Dales village” and a highlight for its classic scenery and atmosphere.

Lunchtime is spent in Grassington, the main hub of the tour, where you have about an hour to enjoy the quaint streets, local shops, and perhaps grab a bite in a traditional pub. Grassington’s role as “Darrowby” in the series makes it a key stop for All Creatures fans, and the relaxed pace allows for a more immersive experience. The town’s cobbled streets and stone buildings provide perfect photo opportunities.

After lunch, visitors have a choice: head to Thirsk’s World of James Herriot for around an hour (admission not included) or continue exploring more Yorkshire Dales scenery. The World of James Herriot attraction offers a chance to dive into the life of the famous veterinarian and author, adding a literary and historical layer to your day.

Transport and Comfort

The tour’s transportation is by a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle suitable for your group size. This ensures that even on a longer day, you travel in comfort, with regular stops for photos, refreshments, and restroom breaks. The private nature of the tour means you’re not sharing the vehicle with strangers, which adds to the relaxed, flexible atmosphere.

Guides and Local Knowledge

While the driver is not explicitly described as a guide, reviews praise the friendly, local driver for their knowledge and helpfulness. This personal touch greatly enhances the experience, transforming a scenic drive into an engaging storytelling session about the area’s history, landscape, and the series’ filming secrets.

Cost and Value

At $826.14 for a group of up to four, this tour offers value through exclusivity and comfort. For fans of All Creatures Great & Small, the opportunity to visit filming locations without the hassle of self-driving or arranging multiple tickets is invaluable. The private setup allows for a personalized experience—stopping where you want, taking photos at your leisure, and asking questions.

Authenticity and Unique Experiences

One of the tour’s strongest points, based on reviews, is the chance to see less touristy spots and enjoy the landscape without crowds. Although the filming locations are a highlight, the tour’s inclusion of authentic villages like Burnsall and Grassington provides a genuine taste of Dales life.

Weather and Practical Tips

The tour operates in all weather conditions, so it’s wise to dress appropriately, especially in the unpredictable British climate. Since some attractions close from November to March, it’s good to check availability if visiting during off-peak months. The tour is not suitable for children under five, but most travelers will find it accessible and enjoyable.

Flexibility and Optional Activities

After the main sightseeing, the optional visit to Thirsk’s James Herriot attraction adds a literary dimension, perfect for animal lovers and fans of the vet’s stories. The tour’s flexibility to choose between additional sightseeing or more scenery makes it adaptable to different interests.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This private All Creatures Great & Small Dales tour is ideally suited for fans of the series wanting to walk in the show’s footsteps, as well as travelers who enjoy scenic drives and authentic village visits. It offers a relaxed pace and personalized service, making it perfect for small groups or families. If you’re looking for a comfortable, informative, and scenic day trip that combines film history with natural beauty, this tour ticks all boxes.

Final Thoughts

This experience provides a well-balanced mix of iconic filming locations and genuine Dales scenery, all delivered with a personal touch that large-group tours can’t match. The private setup makes it ideal for those who want to explore at their own pace, soaking in the views and stories without feeling rushed or crowded.

While the price might seem on the higher end, the value lies in the exclusive access, comfort, and expert local insight. For anyone who cherishes the charm of Yorkshire or is a fan of All Creatures Great & Small, this tour is a delightful way to spend a day.

In essence, if you’re after a flexible, scenic, and insightful way to explore the Dales—possibly with a few heartfelt stories about Herriot and friends—this tour delivers on all counts.

FAQ

Is this tour private?
Yes, it is a private experience just for your group, offering a personalized and flexible day.

What is included in the price?
The tour price covers a friendly, local driver, hotel pickup and drop-off, private vehicle, and scheduled stops with photo/refreshment/toilet breaks.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees to optional attractions like the World of James Herriot are not included.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 8 hours and 15 minutes, starting at 9:00 am and ending back at the meeting point.

Can I visit the James Herriot museum?
Yes, after lunch you have the option to visit Thirsk’s James Herriot attraction, which lasts about an hour.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but it is not suitable for children under 5 years old.

What should I wear?
Dress appropriately for weather conditions, as the tour runs in all weather and involves outdoor stops.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most bookings are made around 50 days in advance; confirmation is received within 48 hours.

Is pickup available from my hotel?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included, making logistics easy.

What is the best time of year to do this tour?
The tour operates year-round, but some attractions close from November to March, so plan accordingly.

This private tour offers an excellent blend of scenery, storytelling, and authentic Dales charm—perfect for fans, explorers, or anyone wanting a relaxed day immersed in Yorkshire’s natural beauty.