James Herriot Wood

James Herriot Wood at Thirns Farm 

James Herriot Wood is named after Alf Wight OBE, author of All Creatures Great and Small, and better known by his pen name James Herriot.

This young woodland was planted in 2021-22 with 1,875 trees to extend tree cover and create a natural wildlife corridor.

The woodland is set between existing low-lying deciduous woodland and the heather moor on the south-facing fellside of Swaledale above the village of Healaugh, in an area much loved by the author. 

Trees species planted here include rowan, downy birch, hazel, hawthorn, alder, bird cherry, holly, sessile oak, small leaved lime, goat willow some spindle and crab apple.

All Creatures Great and Small

Thanks to Rosie Page, Alf Wight's daughter, we have been able to name the woodland after the great advocate for the Dales’ people, landscape and wildlife. 

Alf loved the Yorkshire Dales and through his books he shared his experiences of living and working as a vet in North Yorkshire. He had a real affinity and affection for the people, the animals and the landscape of this unique area.

Rosie said,

“Dad was enchanted by the Yorkshire Dales. He delighted in the wildness of the scenery, particularly in Swaledale and Arkengarthdale. I am certain that he would thoroughly approve of the James Herriot Woodland, of its superb location, and of all that YDMT aims to achieve in the Yorkshire Dales.” 

Access and directions

The woodland is located at Thirns Farm off High Lane, near the village of Healaugh, about a mile from Reeth. 

Follow our walk guide for a pleasant circular walk from Reeth past James Herriot wood and surrounding moorland and mature woodland, and returning via the village of Healaugh.  

PLEASE NOTE: The woodland is situated on private land - please keep to the footpaths.

Grid Reference: SE012994