Off The Beaten Track: James Herriot

Today we are in Thirsk , a Geogian Market Town in North Yorkshire at Herriot's World , a museum built in to the former vet's practice known as Skeldale House in the books. The only museum in the country in fact to be dedicated to vetinary practice. James Alfred Wight was the real James Herriot, born in Sunderland in 1919 before moving to Scotland with his parents at an early age. His first job vet's job after university was with the practice of Donald Sinclair (Siegfried Farnham in the books) at Thirsk. As a vet, just like in the books and films, he was out in all weathers and at all times of the day and night. This may account for the fact he only picked up his pen to write his first book at the age of 50. You will need to allow a good 60-90 minutes for your visit as their is plenty to see, including some very interactive pieces on the top floor as well as a highly unique "test your strength" machine. (email or comment if you want to know more about that one.) For the cricketing fans amongst us, visit the Thirsk Museum just across the road which is the birthplace of the founder of Lords Cricket Ground, otherwise you can head off into the market square where you will find a range of venues offering cream teas to full three course meals.

Mevio | May 12, 2007

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