Location: Thirsk
Top Things to do in Thirsk
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The 10 Best Things to Do in Thirsk, United Kingdom (UK)
Thirsk is a small market town and civil parish in the Hambleton district of North Yorkshire, England. Historically part of the North Riding of Yorkshire, it is 8 miles (13 km) south-south east of the county town of Northallerton.
Restaurants in Thirsk
1. World of James Herriot
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 881 reviews
You’ve probably read the books written by James Alfred Wight or watched “All Creatures Great and Small” on TV. Now come and see where James Herriot, the world’s most famous vet, lived, worked and relaxed. See his home and surgery in Thirsk; travel back in time to what life was like when James was a vet in Yorkshire. See the car he drove, step into the TV set, try your hand at being a vet and even experience what it was like to hide in a World War 2 air raid shelter!
Reviewed By John P
There’s loads to see and do behind that famous red door. Well worth a visit to stand and experience where he worked and wrote. Unlike other historic attractions, you're encouraged to be hands-on (or hands-in for one particular exhibit) which is great for kids.
As other reviewers have pointed out, the house tour keeps on going, room after authentic room. And the more you learn about the man behind the books, the more you're impressed with his modesty and passion for animals and his work as a vet with the farming folk of North Yorkshire. My wife was delighted to discover, like her, he was a lifelong Sunderland AFC fan too.
While we were there, we met Herriot fans from Estonia and USA so this was like a pilgrimage for them. Put our 1 hour journey to shame!
2. Falconry UK Thirsk Birds of Prey Centre
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 245 reviews
Enjoy the thrills and excitement of falconry at the Birds of Prey and Conservation Centre, with over 70 birds and 30 species.Eagles, falcons, hawks, kites, vultures and owls will swoop and dive around you as you sit in a beautiful arena. Our skilled handlers will explain why the birds hunt and fly as they do, where they come from in the wild and how they are trained.We also provide falconry experience days for both adults and children, experiences days start from £30..
Reviewed By Chris E - Beverley, United Kingdom
I received a whole day experience here as a birthday gift. I cannot rightly remember how many others shared in my day but I think five.
I thoroughly enjoyed my time here. There are 3 staff involved in the bird handling side of things and they are all friendly and knowledgable. Their enthusiasm and dedication is very evident in both an organised day and in the displays for other visitors.
The birds are clearly well cared for and the whole place has an air of order and cleanliness. On the "experience" you have an opportunity to handle a variety of different birds
I would think you might typically spend a couple of hours here at least and whatever time of the day is good as there are three organised displays throughout the day.
My day lasted from 10 until 3.30 and I enjoyed every minute. You don't necessarily need to be an avid bird watcher to enjoy but obviously a love of nature helps!
3. White Horse of Kilburn
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 328 reviews
Reviewed By MStJB - York, United Kingdom
Banter with my Wiltishire Father-in-Law who has said for the last 35 years that the Wiltishire Horse is better than our Yorkshire thoroughbred at Kilburn. But as we all know, most west country folk are wrong and he is.
Free car parking, lovely walks through the wood, watch the gliders from the top. Walk to Sutton bank and then admire the horse from a couple of miles away to get the full effect as my shot shows. Definitely worth going that extra furlong to see, you won't lose your shirt as there is no charge and there are no hurdles except a few steps to the top. Nay Dennis, Kilburn is the real winner!
4. St Mary's Church
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 98 reviews
Reviewed By seagullrob - Brisbane, Queensland
We were staying with friends in Thirsk, Yorkshire, getting our fix of "All Creatures Great and Small", and having been to the museum which now occupies his old veterinary surgery, we walked further down the street to St Mary's Church, where the real James & Helen Herriot (Alf & Loan) were married in 1941.
Seemed kind of fitting.
5. Sutton Bank National Park Centre
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 229 reviews
For a fun free day out, head to Sutton Bank National Park Centre, less than 30 miles north of York. Soak up England's finest view on easy walking trails, including the popular White Horse, while thrilling bike rides set off straight from the door - there's year-round bike hire and a mix of family cycle routes, which follow the spectacular Sutton Bank cliff edge, or more adventurous off-road thrills. Kids can go wild in the natural adventure play area, with stone castle and huts, swamp, tree house and mud kitchen. Inside, a fascinating hi-tech exhibition will take you on a journey through time to discover how this iconic landscape was created and the influence it's had on people through the ages. There's an Information Centre, gift shop specialising in local produce and crafts, and tearoom. We also run children's events in the school holidays. Admission is free. Pay & Display parking.
Reviewed By iangorner - Redcar, United Kingdom
Walked in the area with a friend.The walk itself was really enjoyable and would walk here again.Car parking was expensive.After the walk we went in the café which was bright and clean.My friend had tea and I had a coffe which wasn't that great.The visitor centre was pretty good.Would come here again...but hopefully coffee will be better.
6. Thirsk Racecourse
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 118 reviews
Reviewed By manwell2015 - Wakefield, United Kingdom
Had not been to Thirsk racecourse for almost two years and was amazed at the improvements that had been made, the paving from the Premier entrance right to the grand stand made it much safer to walk, as on wet days it could be a little difficult. Had lunch in the cafeteria which was well presented and filling. The only let down was I don't think there was an Ice Cream seller in the Paddock enclosure and as I have walking difficulties another trip to where is was situated was out of the question. Parking Staff were very good and polite. All in all a good day out.
7. Thirsk Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 75 reviews
Reviewed By Sylvia N - Middlesbrough, United Kingdom
Charming little museum, very informal. Lots of interesting local items We went in thinking it's only tiny we'll be out in 10 minutes .An hour later we were still there .well worth a visit Free entrance but they do ask (very politely)that if you have enjoyed it would you please make a donation to keep it going. Well worth a visit.
8. Thirsk Tourist Information Centre
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 65 reviews
Reviewed By Ted B - Manchester, United Kingdom
This was a very clean toilet building which was changed to a Tourist Board. The toilets are now well off the square including the Accessible toilet.
Nice to have a tourist board but not at the expense of moving toilet facilities a long way from the Square.
Good info there,helpful Ladies.
Wrong priorities.
9. Larks Edge Alpacas
Overall Ratings
5 based on 12 reviews
Larks Edge is our home where we care for our four pet alpacas, and an ever increasing herd of pygmy goats. We welcome visitors who would like to walk Jester, Rio, JayZee and Mr Darcy, and get close to these fascinating and unusual animals. Come along and meet our boys, and take them for a walk, or book a VIP experience for special treatment - just for you and your party with no other visitors.
Reviewed By Lindsay F
We were accommodated very much at the last minute and the walkwas fantastic. I had never seen a real Alpaca before and knew even less about them having only seen them on the Yorkshire Vet. I came away with a lot more knowledge of these...MoreWe do our best to personally make visitors welcome and are so pleased you enjoyed your visit. I know the 'boys' would love to see you again - especially Mr Darcy.
10. Zillah Bell Gallery
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 13 reviews
Reviewed By boppsey - Northumberland
Small from the outside, but lots of rooms and two floors of really good quality, interesting and eclectic paintings, etchings and pottery.Thank you for taking the time to leave feedback, we are so happy that you enjoyed your visit to the gallery last year. Come and see us again soon!
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