World of James Herriot
23 Kirkgate, Thirsk, Yorkshire
Fans of the Yorkshire author and vet of All Creatures Great and Small fame won’t want to miss the World of James Herriot. Now an award-winning, interactive museum, Herriot’s former veterinary office—a fully restored 1940s home—displays a huge collection of Herriot memorabilia.
A visit to the World of James Herriot makes an ideal half-day trip for families, animal lovers, and literature buffs. Check out the lifelike sculpture of Herriot (whose real name was Alfred Wight), and the collection of veterinary instruments. Or, marvel over costumes—and the Austin 7 car—from the BBC television adaptation of Herriot’s book All Creatures Great and Small.
Discounted tickets are offered for families.
Last entry is an hour before closing, so plan accordingly.
Pick up souvenirs or copies of Herriot’s semiautobiographical novels at the World of James Herriot gift shop.
All areas of the museum, except the air raid shelter, are accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
Braille guidebooks are available.
The World of James Herriot is a short walk from the Thirsk town center, in North Yorkshire. Easily accessible by vehicle from nearby towns such as York and Harrogate, the museum lies just off the A19 road. If traveling by train, get off at the Thirsk railway station and take a taxi to the museum.
The World of James Herriot is open year-round, except on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Day. It’s busiest during school holidays.
Thirsk and the World of James Herriot are just two of North Yorkshire’s popular destinations. To extend your time in the region, visit the Viking city of York and check out York Castle Museum, York Minster, and the National Railway Museum. Or, head to the gothic seaside town of Whitby. Alternatively, join a comprehensive tour that stops by several of these attractions.
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