All Creatures Great & Small: Season 4
The fourth season of All Creatures Great and Small begins in the spring of 1940, marking a period of significant transition for the residents of Skeldale House. As the shadow of the Second World War looms, James and Helen navigate the uncertainties of their future, specifically contemplating the timing of starting a family while facing the possibility of James being called up for service in the Royal Air Force. Withi
Season 4 Lore Primer
Key plot threads, lore context, and character stakes you need to remember before diving into this season.
- The series follows the adventures of a young country veterinarian living and working in the Yorkshire Dales.
- Skeldale House serves as the central hub for the veterinary practice and the primary residence for the main characters.
- Siegfried Farnon manages the veterinary practice and is responsible for the household, often working alongside James Herriot.
- The narrative is set against the historical backdrop of the late 1930s and early 1940s, with the onset of war impacting the characters' lives.
Season overview
The fourth season of All Creatures Great and Small begins in the spring of 1940, marking a period of significant transition for the residents of Skeldale House. As the shadow of the Second World War looms, James and Helen navigate the uncertainties of their future, specifically contemplating the timing of starting a family while facing the possibility of James being called up for service in the Royal Air Force. Within the household, the absence of Tristan is deeply felt, placing a heavy burden on Siegfried as he attempts to maintain stability and manage the practice during this challenging era. Amidst these pressures, the bond between Mrs. Hall and Helen strengthens as they look toward the future. The domestic dynamic is further altered by the arrival of Richard Carmody, a new trainee veterinary student whose presence introduces various complications to the household. The season explores how the characters adapt to these shifting circumstances, balancing their professional responsibilities in the Yorkshire Dales with the personal anxieties and adjustments necessitated by the ongoing global conflict.
Episode Guide
Season 4 Progress Shield
Broodiness
Oct 5, 2023 · 46 min
It’s Easter 1940 and, with Tristan away, Skeldale House is busier than ever. Everyone looks to the future, and James tries to save a dog from its owner.
Carpe Diem
Oct 12, 2023 · 45 min
Siegfried hires an experienced bookkeeper, but her efficient approach doesn’t suit everyone. James and Helen arrive at a big decision, and a ferret presents a challenge for the pra
Right Hand Man
Oct 19, 2023 · 45 min
When new vet Richard Carmody joins the practice, James feels his place by Siegfried’s side is threatened. Conflicts come to the surface at Mrs Pumphrey’s community tea party.
By the Book
Oct 26, 2023 · 45 min
James and Helen are keeping a secret, and following a visit to the Crabtree’s Farm, Carmody is challenged with learning how to be a vet outside of his books. The new farmers have a
Papers
Nov 2, 2023 · 44 min
The war is getting closer, James is about to embark on a new journey. He desperately wants things in order and Carmody trained up to support Siegfried. But James is frustrated at C
The Home Front
Nov 8, 2023 · 45 min
Helen feels redundant at Skeldale, and buried family secrets threaten to tear their relationship apart as Richard refuses to let her muck in on the farm. Helen notices that calf Sm
On a Wing and a Prayer
Dec 21, 2023 · 49 min
An emotional phone call with a very pregnant Helen makes James determined to get back to her, but he doesn't have many options, and RAF mascot Georgie needs his help. Meanwhile, Mr