Step into the preserved 1940s home and veterinary surgery of James Herriot, exploring immersive exhibits that bring the beloved All Creatures Great & Small stories to life.

World of James Herriot is an award-winning family visitor attraction housed within the original home and veterinary surgery of Alf Wight (the real James Herriot) in Thirsk, North Yorkshire. This multi-award winning museum offers an authentic and immersive experience where visitors can step back in time and discover what life was really like for a rural vet in Yorkshire during the 1940s. Every room has been carefully restored using original furnishings, tools, and period details, allowing visitors to explore the consulting rooms, dispensary, living quarters, and garden exactly as they would have appeared during James Herriot's working life. Unlike traditional museums, this is an interactive visitor attraction that brings together history, storytelling, and hands-on exhibits, inviting guests to follow the remarkable journey of James Herriot and the everyday people and animals that inspired his beloved books. Families can enjoy an interactive children's play area, making it engaging for younger visitors. The venue welcomes visitors of all ages, including babies and young children, with free admission for children aged 0-3 years. Visitors typically allow 1-2 hours to explore the attraction. The museum is highly rated, receiving 4.9 out of 5 stars on GetYourGuide and has been featured on PBS, Channel 5, and the BBC.

Venue Details

What this place offers

Toilets

Public transport nearby

Accessible toilets

Free WiFi

Baby changing facilities

Food available

On-site parking

🐕Dog-friendly

Parking nearby

Pushchair friendly

G

G&L

a month ago

Having see all the series of All Creatures Great & Small it was a place we could not visit while on our Yorkshire trip. There is no parking at the museum, but we managed to find parking down the same road from the James Herriot Museum for our motorhome. The museum is actually in James Herriot's home. We had booked online and showed our email receipt at reception where a helpful and friendly lady member of staff talked us through the museum and where we could watch video shows etc pertaining to James Herriot. The layout of the museum is in a good logical order. There is an upstairs element that can be accessed either by stairs or lift. On the upper floor there is an area for young children. Well worth a visit and reasonably priced, too.

F

Funki Pickle

2 months ago

As a huge fan of the books and the 1970’s television series, this was a joy to visit. Fascinating to learn about James Alfred (Alf) Wight and his life. Loved the tv set part of the tour too. So pleased we visited whilst in the area.

N

Norm P.

3 months ago

Very good - the James Herriot countryside is terrific to explore, and this museum has successfully captured the essence. It is well laid out and is very interesting. A real treat for all of you "All Creatures Great and Small" fans.

T

TheYorkshireTony

3 months ago

A fantastic tourist attraction that is a must for all things James Herriot. A wonderfully curated museum with so many unique exhibits, and don’t forget to get intimate with the cow for a selfie.

V

Vik Toria (Viktoria)

7 months ago

What a wholesome experience for all ages. It has so many interactive elements as well as very explicit details on the life of this outstanding person. Highly recommended!

Reviews last updated: 6 October 2026