Journey’s start here at Trailfinders. Founded in 1970 by Mike Gooley, Trailfinders has grown into the UK’s largest independent travel company. Imagine stepping into Trailfinders. Thirty-nine travel centers exist in the UK and Ireland ready to serve you.
Trailfinders specializes in tailor-made travel. Think worldwide adventures crafted just for you. Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and the Americas await. Asia and Africa are also within reach.
Mike Gooley, a former SAS officer, started it all. His vision began in a small office on Earls Court Road. In 1972, Trailfinders innovated by advertising discounted air tickets. This made travel more accessible to everyone. By 1979, Trailfinders was IATA-licensed and ATOL-licensed. This ensured financial protection for travelers. Trailfinders pioneered tailormade travel in 1990 adapting to customer needs.
Trailfinders employs over 1,000 staff today. They have arranged travel for over 15 million clients. The company has earned numerous national awards. These accolades reflect their commitment to quality service. In 2018, The Times recognized Trailfinders as the UK’s Best Tour Operator. Food & Travel Magazine named them Tour Operator of the Year in both 2017 and 2018. National Geographic Traveller lauded them as Travel Experts in 2017. The Guardian named Trailfinders Most Trusted and Best Package Holiday Operator in 2016.
Mike Gooley’s contributions extend beyond travel. He was named Entrepreneur of the Year in 1999. He received a CBE in 2006 for his services to the Travel Industry and charity. In 2007, Tourism Australia gave him the Chairman’s Award. This recognized his contribution to Australian tourism. The Sunday Times Rich List in 2018 placed him as the UK’s 21st most generous giver to charity. Gooley was knighted in 2021 for his services to Business and Charity.
Trailfinders remains privately owned by Mike Gooley. The Mike Gooley Trailfinders Charity was founded in 1995. In a challenging time, Trailfinders donated £5 million to charity.
When booking with Trailfinders, you’ll find various tour options. Group tours offer a budget-friendly experience. Small group tours provide a more intimate setting. Private tours deliver flexibility and personalized attention. Booking a trip is simple. You can browse brochures or visit their website. A personal travel agent guides you through the process. They assist with flights, visas, and vaccinations.
Once you arrive at your destination, expect smooth service. Guides meet you with clear signage. They help with luggage and hotel check-in. They can also arrange restaurant reservations. Guides share insights into the local culture. Trailfinders provides a seamless travel experience from start to finish. Trailfinders appreciates you may want time to explore on your own.
Trailfinders gives you access to quality. From standard to deluxe accommodations you are sure to find a level of comfort that is right for you.
Trailfinders isn’t just about booking a trip. It’s about crafting an experience. A journey tailored to your dreams. Trailfinders helps turn those dreams into reality.