Around 30 people attended the world premiere of “The Herriot Way”, held on Monday night, June 27th at The Black Bull in Reeth, England. The old country pub—which was featured in the film—welcomed not only me and Lorena, but many of the people who helped with the film, as well as their friends and families. We were enormously grateful to also welcome James Herriot’s son, Jim Wight, accompanied by his lovely wife, Gill.
After everyone arrived and joined us in drinks and conversation, we gathered in one of The Black Bull’s dining rooms to watch the film. We were a little nervous. Friends and family had seen it and had great things to say about it, but this was the first showing to an actual audience. But it was a wonderful crowd—attentive, engaged, and enthusiastic with their congratulations afterward. Jim graciously agreed to say a few words to the audience.
We are so grateful to all who attended. We caught up with old friends, and made some new ones. Alfred Wainwright aficionado Chris Butterfield and his wife Priscilla took photos and video of the event, and interviewed us for an article in an upcoming issue of The Dalesman magazine. It was wonderful to finally meet in person our drone photographer Ian Black and his wife Lesley.
Reconnecting with old friends was a pleasure. Helen Guy of the Keld Resource Centre has been an invaluable ally to our film. It was delightful to see our favorite Roman fort owners, Mason and Mary Scarr. We had a great chat with our dear friend Claire Hill. Many thanks to Helen Clifford of the Swaledale Museum, Donna Stone of Ivy Cottage B&B, and everyone else who attended.
Last but certainly not least, this incredible evening would never have happened without the generosity and support of David and Helen Whyte, owners of The Black Bull. Our big moment was certainly in the best hands. We had the idea for the premiere, but their enthusiasm and energy made it happen.
Please take a look at the pictures from the premiere, kindly provided by Chris and Priscilla Butterfield.
Lorena and Chris are joined by Jim Wight outside The Black Bull in Reeth. The Linkes welcomed James Herriot’s son to the world premiere of “The Herriot Way,” held at the pub on June 27th, 2022. 
Chris and Lorena chatting with friends Claire Hill, and Lesley and Ian Black at The Black Bull, June 27, 2022. 
Helen Guy and pub owner David Whyte at the premiere of “The Herriot Way” on June 27, 2022 at The Black Bull in Reeth. 
Chris and Lorena Linke introduce their film, “The Herriot Way”, at the premiere held at The Black Bull in Reeth on June 27, 2022. 
Jim Wight, James Herriot’s son, shares stories about his father at the premiere of “The Herriot Way”, at The Black Bull in Reeth, June 27, 2022. 
From left, Lorena Linke, Gill Wight, David Whyte, Jim Wight, Priscilla Butterfield, and Chris Linke outside The Black Bull in Reeth, following the premiere of “The Herriot Way”, June 27, 2022.
Hello Chris and Lorena,
After watching your documentary (The Harriot Way), I have been thinking about heading to beautiful Yorkshire Dales. Taking us along on your walk was very helpful in understanding the hike. The landscape, quaint villages and breath taking views has definitely wet my appetite.
I will be going to England from Canada (later this summer), and landing in London. I have been doing some research and think the train is the best way for us to get from London to Aysgarth. I have been flirting with the idea of a car, as well. I was hoping you may have some information/tips you could share. I was also wondering if your stay was in different B & B’s each night? Whatever advice you could pass along would be so helpful.
Thank you for the great documentary and your time!
Sincerely,
Julie k
Thank you very much for your kind words, Julie. The first thing for you to do would be to get Stuart’s book. It really is a first-class guidebook full of info for all walkers, novice or experienced.
Yes, a train is the best way to get from London to (near) Aysgarth. There is no train service in Wensleydale, so you would actually go to Northallerton, which is about an hour’s drive from Aysgarth. If you want to drive, Northallerton has an Enterprise Rent-a-car. If you don’t, you can go by bus on the Wensleydale Flyer service 856.
Yes, we were in a different B&B each night, though I believe some places will let you stay for the duration of your walk and they will pick you up and drop you off at each day’s starting point.
There are many ways to do this, so again, Stuart’s book will be indispensable. Whatever approach you take, you’ll have an amazing experience!
-Chris