Who Is Hays Travel Ltd?
Founded in 1980 by the late John Hays, Hays Travel Limited has grown from a one-man operation in a small shop in Seaham, County Durham into the UK’s largest independent travel agency.
Today, it operates almost 500 high-street branches and supports a vast network of personal travel consultants, franchisees, and homeworkers across the country.
Headquartered at Gilbridge House, Keel Square, Sunderland, SR1 3HA, Hays Travel continues to lead the UK travel industry with a customer-first philosophy, impartial holiday planning, and substantial buying power.
The company remains family-owned and is known for its community engagement, robust apprenticeship programmes, and award-winning service.
As of 2024, Hays Travel has achieved £2 billion in turnover and handled £3 billion in travel transactions in 2025, solidifying its position as the go-to brand for British holidaymakers. The company is also ABTA, ATOL, and IATA bonded, ensuring complete financial protection for customers.
Who Are the Key People at Hays Travel Ltd?
Hays Travel is led by a dynamic board of directors, each bringing industry experience and leadership acumen. The company continues its legacy under the stewardship of Dame Irene Hays following the passing of founder John Hays in 2020.
Directors of Hays Travel Ltd
| Name | Role | Appointed | Occupation |
| Irene Hays | Director (Chief Executive) | 31 Jan 2008 | Chief Executive |
| Kenneth Peter Campling | Director (Group Finance) | 26 Jul 2021 | Group Finance Director |
| Lisa Michelle McAuley | Director (Non-Executive) | 31 Jul 2022 | Non-Executive Director |
| Helen Margaret Milford | Director | 1 Jan 2024 | Company Director |
| Joanna Natalia Rzynowska | Director | 1 Nov 2023 | Company Director |
| Jane Elizabeth Schumm | Director | 27 Jul 2010 | Travel Agent |
| Jonathon Robert Woodall-Johnston | Director | 16 Nov 2020 | Travel Agent |
This leadership team upholds the company’s founding principles while embracing innovation and expansion across digital, retail, and operational sectors.
What Is the Company’s Capital Base and Annual Turnover?
Hays Travel Ltd is a private limited company registered under Company No. 01990682 in England and Wales. The business was incorporated on 18 February 1986 and maintains its registered office at Gilbridge House, Sunderland.
Company Details
| Detail | Information |
| Incorporation Date | 18 February 1986 |
| Company Type | Private Limited Company |
| Registered Address | Gilbridge House, Sunderland, SR1 3HA |
| SIC Code | 79110 – Travel Agency Activities |
| Last Accounts Made Up To | 30 April 2024 |
| Next Accounts Due By | 31 January 2026 |
Turnover: £2 billion in 2024
Transaction Value: £3 billion in 2025
This financial growth reflects Hays Travel’s nationwide influence and its ability to meet high-volume demand across consumer and corporate travel sectors.
What Services and Features Does Hays Travel Ltd Offer?
As a one-stop solution for travel, Hays Travel offers a versatile portfolio of services suited for families, solo travellers, honeymooners, cruise lovers, and corporate clients.
Core Travel Services
| Service Area | Description |
| Package Holidays | Tailored packages to destinations worldwide |
| Cruise Holidays | Ocean and river cruises with top-rated operators |
| Last Minute Deals | Discounted holidays and seasonal offers |
| Travel Money & Forex | Competitive exchange rates, money cards, and holiday cash |
| All-Inclusive Packages | Value deals with meals, drinks, and entertainment included |
| Customised Holidays | Bespoke getaways tailored by personal travel consultants |
| App & Online Booking | Manage holidays, payments, and itineraries via mobile app or website |
Additional Programmes and Highlights
- Hays Travel App: Bookings, payments, and travel info in one place.
- Hays Travel Academy: Apprenticeship scheme for over 600 youth annually.
- Branch Investments: Over £246,000 invested in local communities in 2024.
- Hays Travel Foundation: More than £1.8 million donated to youth-focused initiatives since 2015.
- Sustainability and Refurbishment Strategy: Modernised branches across the UK.
How Can Customers Get in Touch with Hays Travel Ltd?
Hays Travel is easily accessible through a range of channels, with dedicated contact numbers for new and existing customers, and a nationwide network of branches.
Contact Details
| Contact Type | Information |
| Website | www.haystravel.co.uk |
| Customer Services (Existing) | 0333 033 9985 |
| New Bookings | 0800 408 4048 |
| Registered Address | Gilbridge House, Keel Square, Sunderland, SR1 3HA |
| Branch Locator | Available on website |
| Personal Consultant Page | Matchmaking available online |
Customers can also get assistance via live chat, submit inquiries through online forms, or visit branches in person. The support centre handles all aspects of bookings, amendments, and financial queries.
Why Choose Hays Travel Ltd?
With over four decades of trusted travel experience, Hays Travel Ltd stands out for its scale, personalised service, and family-led values.
Recognised multiple times as the UK’s favourite travel agent, the company is known for its customer-centric culture, financial transparency, and inclusive travel solutions.
Key Benefits:
- Nationwide Presence: Almost 500 branches and a growing remote consultant network.
- Award-Winning Service: Winner of three British Travel Awards in 2024.
- Independent Advice: Access to hundreds of suppliers and impartial recommendations.
- Financial Protection: Fully ABTA, ATOL, and IATA bonded.
- Community Support: Annual investment in local and youth-focused initiatives.
- Innovation: Mobile app, modern retail upgrades, and expanding digital tools.
Whether booking a last-minute holiday or planning a luxury cruise, customers choose Hays Travel for its professionalism, value, and the security of a trusted British travel institution.
