Family Days Out in North Yorkshire
Discover One of Yorkshire’s Best Loved Attractions in the Heart of Thirsk
The World of James Herriot Museum & Family Visitor Attraction
If you’re looking for family days out in North Yorkshire, the World of James Herriot in Thirsk is one of the region’s most charming and memorable places to visit. Set inside the original home and surgery of Alf Wight, the real James Herriot, our award-winning attraction offers a brilliant mix of hands-on activities, interactive galleries, and indoor fun that the whole family will love.
Whether you’re planning things to do with kids in North Yorkshire, searching for rainy day activities in Yorkshire, or simply exploring places to visit in Thirsk, you’ll find a genuinely warm welcome waiting in Herriot Country. Buy Tickets Now
A Family Day Out Filled with Stories, Smiles and Yorkshire Charm
Families love visiting us because the experience is relaxed, friendly, and full of surprises. Children can explore the famous TV set from All Creatures Great and Small, try their hand at being a vet, and discover what life was really like in 1940s Yorkshire. Grown-ups enjoy the nostalgia, the heritage, and the chance to step inside one of Yorkshire’s most iconic homes.
It’s the kind of day out where you arrive curious and leave with stories to tell.
The Perfect Choice For All Kinds Of Family Days Out
We’re a brilliant option for all sorts of occasions and all kinds of visitors. Whether you’re after kids’ days out in North Yorkshire, looking for indoor attractions in Yorkshire on a grey day, or planning educational family activities during half term and school holidays, the James Herriot museum has you covered.
Indoor and All Weather!
And because the entire attraction is indoors, you never have to worry about the weather. North Yorkshire can be unpredictable at the best of times, so having a fantastic all-weather day out up your sleeve is always a good idea.
What Our Visitors Have To Say…
A must‑visit in Thirsk. Very friendly staff and fascinating displays. Great disabled access, had no problems getting round with my mum’s disability scooter.
Wonderful museum and a real bargain! Spent 2 hours there & could of stayed longer, loads to see and do, a must for any fan of All Creatures Great & Small.
A wonderful museum full of Yorkshire charm. Every room feels like stepping back in time into a real Herriot story.
Brilliant for families and fans of the books or TV show alike. The mix of history, and exhibits, made for a fantastic visit.
Plan Your Visit
We’re easy to find, right in the centre of Thirsk, with parking close by and excellent transport links. We pride ourselves on being welcoming to every visitor, with accessible layouts including lifts and ramps, baby changing facilities, friendly staff on hand throughout your visit, and a gift shop packed with Herriot-themed goodies to take a little piece of Yorkshire home with you.
Whether you’re local or travelling from further afield, we’re one of the most welcoming family attractions in North Yorkshire.
FAQs – Helping You Plan the Perfect Day Out in North Yorkshire
Is The World of James Herriot suitable for children?
Yes. Families with children of all ages love the hands on activities, interactive displays and relaxed atmosphere.
Is it a good rainy day activity in Yorkshire?
Absolutely. The entire attraction is indoors, making it ideal for rainy days out in North Yorkshire.
How long does a visit take?
Most families spend between 1.5 and 2 hours with us, though many stay longer.
Is it easy to get to Thirsk?
Yes. Thirsk is well connected by road and rail, making it a great base for days out in Yorkshire.
Make Your Family Day Out in North Yorkshire One to Remember
If you’re looking for places to take the kids in North Yorkshire, looking for fun things to do in Thirsk, or simply want a brilliant day out filled with Yorkshire warmth, The World of James Herriot is ready to welcome you.
Buy your tickets today and step into the real home of James Herriot.
Things to Do in Thirsk for Families
Thirsk is a brilliant little market town and a perfect base for family days out in North Yorkshire. After your visit to the James Herriot museum, there’s plenty more to explore right on the doorstep.
Wander around the historic Thirsk Market Place, pick up something local from one of the independent shops, or settle in for a family lunch at one of the town’s welcoming cafes. Thirsk Museum is just a short walk away for those who want to dig a little deeper into the town’s history.
And if you want to make a full day of it, the Yorkshire Dales and the North York Moors are both within easy reach, offering stunning scenery and fresh air in equal measure. Many of our visitors combine a morning at the James Herriot museum with an afternoon exploring the wider Herriot Country landscape that inspired so many of those beloved stories.
Thirsk really is the ideal starting point for discovering everything this corner of Yorkshire has to offer.
