Dan Walker and Helen Skelton embark on a journey through the majestic landscapes of the Yorkshire Dales in the series premiere of Yorkshire Great and Small with Dan and Helen. Airing on Channel 5 on Thursday, 12 September 2024, at 8:00 pm, the episode explores the awe-inspiring natural beauty and hidden gems of Yorkshire, affectionately known as ‘God’s own country’.
Walker and Skelton, close friends with a shared passion for Yorkshire, begin their adventure in Malham. After a challenging and banter-filled hike, they arrive at Malham Cove, a stunning limestone formation that is a natural wonder carved out during the last Ice Age. They continue their exploration of the picturesque landscape, which inspired Herriot’s All Creatures Great and Small, and are awestruck by the Ribblehead Viaduct, an impressive Victorian engineering landmark.
The pair then discover the Ingleborough Nature Trail, a hidden gem nestled among Yorkshire’s famous Three Peaks. Here, they learn about a legendary horticulturalist who transformed the landscape using unconventional methods. Off the beaten path, Walker uncovers rare wild orchids along the River Wharfe and explores a secret garden with royal connections, while Skelton investigates local myths and natural wonders, including Janet’s Foss and a hidden cave near Troller’s Gill.
Their journey also takes them to Grassington, a charming market square that transforms into Darrowby, the fictional town from All Creatures Great and Small. They round off their adventures with a visit to a traditional Yorkshire pub in Appletreewick, where they indulge in a friendly game of bullring and learn about William Craven, a local man who rose from poverty to become the Lord Mayor of London.
Yorkshire Great and Small with Dan and Helen: Series Premiere airs Thursday, 12 September 2024, at 8:00 pm on Channel 5.
