Thirsk is a little market community and civil parish in the Hambleton area of North Yorkshire, England. Historically part of the North Riding of Yorkshire, it is 8 miles (13 kilometres) south-south east of the county town of Northallerton. According to the 2011 UK Census, the population was 4,998. Thirsk is a popular tourist location near the Yorkshire Dales and the North York Moors. It was the house of author James Herriot and also birthplace of Thomas Lord, after whom Lord's Cricket Ground is called. Thirsk Racecourse is on the western side of the town. Thirsk is built around a big medieval market square, which still holds an open-air market each Monday and also Saturday. The market was established in 1145 and is the prime focus for regional farmers, investors as well as visitors. The town was as soon as known for its natural leather sun tanning and also saddlery trade, however this was changed in the 19th century by the production of farming applies. This was helped by the facility of the Mechanics Institute in 1848. Thirsk has several facilities for vacationers. The modern-day economic situation is based upon friendliness, tourist, public administration, money, production, building, agriculture, small commercial, retail and service companies. It is home to online merchant VetUK. Tourist is a fundamental part of the economic climate, with accommodations, dining establishments and bars in addition to destinations that urge site visitors.