The current adaptation of All Creatures Great and Small offers an intricate behind-the-scenes glimpse into its dedicated cast, skilled crew, and the care taken to authentically recreate the life of a rural veterinarian in the 1930s. The series, inspired by the beloved writings of James Herriot, not only aims to honor the original stories but also enriches the setting with meticulous attention to historical detail, filming locations, and the lifelike portrayal of animals and procedures that are central to the story.
Source: Yorkshire
Leading the show is Nicholas Ralph, who brings James Herriot to life with warmth and humility. For his role as a veterinarian, Ralph received extensive training, including hands-on experience with animal handling, guided by the show’s on-set veterinary advisor. The series uses a combination of live animals and highly realistic prosthetics to portray veterinary scenes, making them both convincing and compassionate. This blend allows for safety and controlled interactions with animals on set, while also giving audiences the feeling of real veterinary work. Ralph has shared in interviews that his work with various animals, including cows and cats, created memorable, sometimes unpredictable, moments on set. In one instance, an unruly cow caused a bit of chaos, underscoring the unpredictable nature of working with live animals in a production setting.
Samuel West, who plays Siegfried Farnon, adds further depth to the series by portraying Siegfried’s eccentricity and complexity. His performance, coupled with Ralph's, demonstrates the series' commitment to character-driven storytelling. West and Ralph’s chemistry brings to life the dynamic between Siegfried and Herriot, capturing the balance between mentorship, conflict, and mutual respect.
Source: Youtube
The behind-the-scenes magic is also crafted by the film crew and the scenic beauty of the Yorkshire Dales. The series’ production team has gone to great lengths to make the fictional village of Darrowby feel like a real Yorkshire village. Grassington, a town in North Yorkshire, was chosen as the primary filming location, with its timeless architecture lending an authentic backdrop. Producers modified storefronts and signage to reflect a 1930s look, transforming shops and homes to appear untouched by modernity. These transformations involved considerable planning to capture both the charm of the Dales and the nostalgic atmosphere of Herriot’s time. Historic locations like Bolton Hall were also used, adding visual richness to the portrayal of Mrs. Pumphrey’s opulent lifestyle.
The animals are stars in their own right, with each season featuring a mix of livestock and domesticated pets. From dogs and horses to sheep and, notably, the troublesome Tricki-Woo, the series relies on a dedicated team of animal trainers and handlers. Training the animals to behave naturally while filming—and maintaining continuity across scenes—is no small feat. The crew is keenly aware of animal welfare, ensuring the animals remain stress-free and safe during production. The production team even incorporated veterinary prosthetics and pre-filmed scenes for events like calf births, enabling actors to seamlessly blend realistic actions without compromising animal comfort.
Moreover, the costumes and set design are integral to creating the series' historical atmosphere. The wardrobe team ensures the authenticity of 1930s attire, with the characters’ clothing reflecting their personalities and social status. Whether it's Siegfried’s classic country gentleman look, Tristan’s more relaxed style, or Helen’s practical yet stylish outfits, the clothing transports viewers to a bygone era and further defines each character’s role in the story.
All Creatures Great and Small continues to capture viewers’ hearts with its detailed homage to rural life, compassion for animals, and the heartwarming relationships of its characters. This attention to detail and dedication from the cast and crew contributes to the enduring appeal of Herriot’s world, bringing his timeless tales of Yorkshire life and veterinary care to new audiences around the globe.
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