James Herriot

The Life and Legacy of Yorkshire’s Famous Veterinary Surgeon

The World of James Herriot museum offers visitors a captivating journey into the extraordinary life and internationally acclaimed works of James Alfred ‘Alf’ Wight OBE, FRCVS (1916-1995). Writing under the pen name James Herriot, this Yorkshire veterinarian began his literary career at the age of 50 after encouragement from his wife Joan, ultimately becoming one of the 20th century’s most beloved and widely-read authors.

From Rural Veterinarian to Literary Phenomenon

Alf Wight crafted his heartwarming stories directly from his experiences as a young veterinary surgeon in rural Yorkshire. His authentic tales of animal care and country life have sold millions of copies worldwide, inspiring two successful feature films and the iconic television series “All Creatures Great and Small,” which achieved international acclaim during the late 1970s and early 1980s. Despite achieving remarkable literary fame and success, Alf remained dedicated to his veterinary practice throughout much of his writing career, maintaining the connection to the work that inspired his stories.

Early Life and Veterinary Training

Born in Sunderland, England in 1916, Alf Wight soon relocated to Glasgow with his family. His passion for animal medicine led him to Glasgow Veterinary College, where he qualified as a veterinary surgeon at age 23. In 1940, after a brief position at a Sunderland veterinary practice, he moved to the rural Yorkshire practice at 23 Kirkgate in Thirsk (immortalized in his books as Skeldale House in the fictional village of Darrowby). This charming market town would remain his home for the remainder of his life.

Family Life in Yorkshire

In 1941, Alf married Joan Danbury in a ceremony at St Mary’s Church, Thirsk. Their family grew to include two children: Jim, who followed in his father’s footsteps to become a veterinary surgeon and partner in the family practice, and Rosie, who established her career as a general practice physician. After serving in the Royal Air Force during World War II in 1942, Alf returned to his beloved Kirkgate practice in 1946.

The Journey to Literary Success

Though Alf harboured writing ambitions for many years, the demands of his veterinary practice and family responsibilities initially prevented him from pursuing this dream. With Joan’s persistent encouragement, he finally began writing in earnest. After several rejected stories on various subjects including football, Alf turned to what he knew most intimately—rural veterinary practice in the Yorkshire Dales.

In 1969, he completed “If Only They Could Talk,” which was published in the United Kingdom in 1970. While initial sales were modest, the manuscript found its way to St. Martin’s Press in New York. The American publisher combined his first two books into a single volume titled “All Creatures Great and Small,” which achieved tremendous commercial success. This breakthrough led to numerous sequels, film adaptations, and the beloved television series that continues to capture hearts worldwide.

Enduring Legacy

Though Alf Wight passed away in 1995, his literary legacy continues to flourish. His books remain perennial bestsellers, the television adaptations continue to broadcast globally, and thousands of admirers visit the World of James Herriot museum in Thirsk, North Yorkshire each year since its establishment in 1999. The museum preserves and celebrates the remarkable life of this humble veterinarian whose stories of compassion, humor, and rural English life have touched millions of readers across generations.

Visit the World of James Herriot

Experience the authentic setting where Alf Wight lived and worked, explore fascinating veterinary exhibits, and discover the inspiration behind the beloved James Herriot stories at our multi award-winning visitor attraction in Thirsk, North Yorkshire.