Grassington
Grassington is a relatively small and picturesque market town in the heart of Wharfedale and provides us with a fantastic stop on a tour of the Yorkshire Dales. The town itself boasts a rich history dating back as far as the Bronze Age and the name Grassington comes from “Gherinstone,” meaning “the town of the grassy ings” or “a farmstead surrounded by grass.” Grassington gained market town status in 1282, a privilege that continued until the 19th century. Grassington’s prosperity grew significantly during the 18th and 19th centuries, driven by the local lead mining industry that was booming across the region. The Yorkshire Dales Railway opened in 1902 further boosted the local economy, bringing tourists from across the country to this picturesque corner of the Dales.
Today, Grassington retains its charming character, with its cobbled streets, traditional stone buildings, and vibrant community. Over the past few years, the town has been boosted by its new association with James Herriot (the world’s most famous veterinary surgeon), with Grassington being transformed into “Darrowby” for the filming of the latest version of All Creatures Great & Small.
The Devonshire, Grassington
This celebrated Public House and inn has found fame in recent years as “The Drovers Arms”, the local pub in All Creatures Great & Small, but has been an important local landmark since the 18th century. Originally called the New Inn, it was renamed The Devonshire in honour of the Duke of Devonshire, the most important landowner in Wharfdale (even today).
Today the Devonshire is known for its high-quality food and friendly service, something we take advantage of during our scheduled tour “The Yorkshire Dales of All Creatures Great & Small”. We stop in Grassington over lunchtime and enjoy a reserved table at the Devonshire – in the pub’s “All Creatures” themed room.
