All Creatures Great and Small will return for a Christmas special later this year, although an official broadcast date has yet to be confirmed. The festive episode will follow the pattern of previous series, giving fans more to look forward to after series seven's dramatic cliffhanger.
Series eight has also been confirmed, but its premiere date remains unannounced. The series seven finale delivered a major twist involving Siegfried Farnon (Samuel West) and his planned wedding to Dorothy (Maimie McCoy).
Siegfried's Wedding Twist
While rehearsing his wedding speech, Siegfried began reminiscing about his cherished moments with Mrs Hall (Anna Madeley). Fans have long noticed the connection between the pair, and he finally acknowledged his feelings for her, although he struggled to find the courage to express them.
After Siegfried decided to cancel his wedding, viewers were left wondering whether he would get another chance to declare his affections. Mrs Hall was in the dark about Siegfried's true feelings.
Series Eight Confirmed
Series eight was confirmed alongside series seven as part of a double commission in November 2025, reports Yorkshire Live. Like previous runs, it will feature six episodes. New series typically begin in September or October, so fans will be hoping the programme follows its usual schedule.
At the time of the commission, Greg Barnett, Commissioning Editor at 5, told Masterpiece: "All Creatures Great and Small is a jewel in 5's drama crown and continues to delight viewers year after year. Its warmth, humour and heart, set against the beauty of Yorkshire, have made it a firm audience favourite."
"We're thrilled to extend its future with two more series, with many new stories still to tell and more unforgettable adventures ahead for our Skeldale family."
Lauren Jackson of All3Media International commented: "Audiences around the world will be thrilled to hear the news of two further series of this heartwarming and enduringly popular series, produced impeccably by Playground for 5 and MASTERPIECE PBS."
Dorothy Actress on Her Return
Dorothy actress Maimie McCoy returned in the previous Christmas special before appearing in series seven. Discussing her return, she revealed: "I've been secretly hoping I'd come back, and there had been chatter over the years, but I'd let it go, as I just thought it wouldn't align."
"So, it felt such a treat to be in the Christmas special. And I guess it's a testament to the show that a lot of the crew is the same as before, so there were a lot of familiar faces. It is very welcoming, and you step back in."
"I felt like the new girl a little bit, but it's always been very easy with Sam and Anna, so it was a lovely reunion. When series seven came about, I was really happy, because I love Dorothy, love her fizz and the sparkle about her, and I wanted to explore and see what else is within her."
All Creatures Great and Small is streaming on 5 and will return for a Christmas special later this year.
