The World of James Herriot
Step Into 1940s Vet Life at Skeldale House in Thirsk
Posted on 7th August 2026
Situated in the heart of the historic market town of Thirsk, The World of James Herriot is an award-winning museum housed inside 23 Kirkgate—the fully restored 1940s home and veterinary surgery of James Alfred Wight (known to millions as author James Herriot).
Alf Wight worked as a practising vet in Thirsk for decades, drawing from his daily encounters across the Yorkshire Dales to write his famous series of books, which later inspired the classic and modern TV adaptations of All Creatures Great and Small. Today, visitors can step directly back in time to experience what life was like for a country vet in wartime Britain.
Highlights / What to See 🐾
The museum combines authentic period restoration with television history and interactive family exhibits:
- Restored 1940s Home & Surgery: Explore the original dispensary, consulting rooms, reception desk, family kitchen, and living room, all meticulously restored with authentic 1940s furniture, medical supplies, and personal items.
- Original TV Studio Sets: Step onto replica sets from the original 1970s BBC series of All Creatures Great and Small and see authentic props and costumes.
- Classic Film Cars: View the original Austin 7 car driven in the classic feature film It Shouldn't Happen to a Vet.
- Interactive Veterinary Gallery: A hands-on area for children and families to test their fitness, match animal X-rays, learn about farm medical care, and even try their hand at birthing a calf!
- World’s Largest Veterinary Tool Collection: Discover an incredible science collection showcasing the evolution of veterinary medicine and surgical equipment over the past century.
- Memorial Garden & Statue: Take a quiet moment in the sunny walled garden to view the bronze statue of Alf Wight sculpted by Sean Hedges-Quinn.
Eateries & Tearooms Nearby ☕
While there is no cafe inside the museum itself, a gift shop with drinks and snacks is on site. The museum is located in central Thirsk, surrounded by traditional Yorkshire pubs, bakeries, and tearooms within a 2-minute walk.
Photo Gallery
Plan Your Visit 📅
Essential visitor details for organizing your visit to the museum:
Admission & Booking
Standard Ticket Prices: Adults ~£8.50 - £9.50 | Children (5-15) ~£5.00 - £6.00 | Under 5s: Free.
Discount passes for families and seniors are available at reception or online.
Opening Hours
Open 7 days a week year-round!
Summer (1st March – Oct): 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM (Last entry 4:00 PM)
Winter (1st Nov – Feb): 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Last entry 3:00 PM)
Dog Policy
Well-behaved dogs on short leads are welcome inside the museum, garden, and gift shop areas!
Facilities
Gift shop, interactive galleries, TV sets, toilets, baby changing facilities, and garden seating area.
Accessibility
Ground-floor exhibits, garden, TV sets, and gift shop are fully accessible. Upper floors in the historic building are accessible via staircase; a video tour is available for restricted areas.
Getting There 🗺️
📍 Location Address:
The World of James Herriot, 23 Kirkgate, Thirsk, North Yorkshire, YO7 1PL
🚗 By Car & Parking
Located just off the A19 and A168 in central Thirsk. Short-stay car parking is available nearby on Kirkgate and the main Thirsk Market Place (approx. 2-minute walk).
🚆 By Rail & Bus
Thirsk Railway Station is situated approx. 1.2 miles away with frequent local buses connecting to the town centre market square.
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