
The World Of James Herriot
📍 23 Kirkgate, Thirsk YO7 1PL, UK
About The World Of James Herriot
Discover the heartwarming world of James Herriot at his original home and veterinary surgery, faithfully preserved at 23 Kirkgate in Thirsk. This award-winning museum, boasting an impressive 4.8/5 star Google rating from over 2500 reviews, offers a nostalgic and engaging journey into the life and times of the beloved vet and author.
Visitors consistently praise the museum for its excellent value and beautifully laid-out exhibits, which bring back cherished memories for many. Experience the visual and tactile displays, including fascinating film sets that vividly illustrate the conditions of a bygone era and the evolution of veterinary technology. With numerous interactive elements and explicit details on Herriot's extraordinary life, it provides a wholesome and captivating experience that appeals to all ages, appreciated for its meticulous attention to detail throughout every room.
Visiting Information
The World Of James Herriot is open daily from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The museum is committed to accessibility, featuring a wheelchair-accessible entrance and restroom. Payment is convenient, with options including credit cards, debit cards, and NFC payments accepted.
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📍 23 Kirkgate, Thirsk YO7 1PL, UK
from 2,541 reviews
Google Reviews
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Showing 5 of 2,541 reviews from Google Maps.Last updated 2 February 2026.
Excellent value for money. Beautifully laid out. Brought back many memories. It's visual and tactile. Films give interesting and surprising information. The film sets give you an idea of the conditions they've worked in and how technology has changed. I would imagine all age groups would enjoy. It's a must if your an All Creatures Great and Small fan.
We absolutely loved this museum devoted to the life of the original James Herriot (pen name). It is the original house and veterinary office of the man behind the books All Creatures Great and Small. We appreciated the attention to detail throughout the rooms, and were fascinated to learn about the filming of the series that ran on BBC for many years. Upstairs there is a veterinary medicine museum that features equipment used to treat farming animals over the years, as well as a hands on kids museum with some delightful sets to entertain. We left having learned about the real life veterinarian challenges as well an insight to the amazing man behind the books. Parking is in the main Thirsk Pay & Display lot in the center of the town. It's about 2 blocks from the museum entrance.
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!
A wonderful and magical experience for fans of James Herriot! The World of James Herriot is a small but incredibly rich museum that beautifully captures the life and legacy of the real James Herriot (Alf Wight), his veterinary practice, and the world he wrote about so lovingly. The museum is set in his original home and surgery, offering an authentic and intimate look into his daily life and work. One of the highlights is seeing the actual set used in the All Creatures Great and Small series, alongside a fascinating collection of vintage veterinary tools and historical displays about the profession. It's a real treat for anyone interested in veterinary history or a fan of the books and shows. While there is an entry fee, it's absolutely worth it. The museum may be small, but it's packed with charm and nostalgia. If you're a fan of All Creatures Great and Small, this place is magical. The surrounding area of Thirsk is equally lovely – a picturesque Yorkshire market town that adds even more charm to the visit. Highly recommended for fans and curious visitors alike!
Great building with historic recreation of Alf Wight's (James Herriot) former practice rooms. Very detailed room layouts with period furniture, vetinary medications and instruments. Two vehicles on display and activities for children, recording playback and short cine films. Disabled access was good, including internal lifts. Complete section dedicated to the TV filming sets and equipment. Thoroughly worth a visit to learn about his veterinary practice and his books etc.