Thirsk is a small market town as well as civil parish in the Hambleton district of North Yorkshire, England. Historically part of the North Riding of Yorkshire, it is 8 miles (13 kilometres) south-south eastern of the county town of Northallerton. According to the 2011 UK Census, the population was 4,998. Thirsk is a prominent traveler location close to the Yorkshire Dales and also the North York Moors. It was the residence of writer James Herriot and birthplace of Thomas Lord, after whom Lord's Cricket Ground is called. Thirsk Racecourse is on the western edge of the community. Thirsk is built around a large medieval market square, which still holds an open-air market each Monday and Saturday. The market was established in 1145 as well as is the centerpiece for local farmers, investors and site visitors. The community was when understood for its natural leather tanning as well as saddlery trade, however this was replaced in the 19th century by the production of farming implements. This was aided by the establishment of the Mechanics Institute in 1848. Thirsk has many facilities for tourists. The contemporary economic climate is based upon friendliness, tourist, public administration, money, manufacturing, building and construction, agriculture, tiny industrial, retail as well as solution organisations. It is house to online retailer VetUK. Tourist is a vital part of the economy, with accommodations, dining establishments and also pubs in addition to tourist attractions that urge visitors.