Albatross was first established in London in 1985 by Manfred and Sally Thelen as a wholesale accommodation provider for UK coach operators. Two years later, Albatross Incoming Tours was launched to serve the domestic UK market and inbound groups from key international markets including the USA and Germany. In 1997, these businesses were brought together as the Albatross Travel Group, creating a strong platform for future growth.
The Group expanded internationally in 1995 with entry into the Australian market, developing a successful programme bringing Australian and New Zealand travellers to Europe under the Albatross Tours brand. This period of growth continued with the acquisition of Success Tours in 1998, followed by the addition of London-based Leisure Breaks in 2007 and London Hotels and Travel Services in 2013, which were later consolidated under the Albatross Travel brand.
Albatross has continued to diversify its offering through targeted investment and new ventures. Scenic Car Tours was launched in 2012, followed by the acquisition of Continental Car Tours, establishing a strong presence in the specialist motoring sector. In 2022, Backwater Classic Car Tours joined the portfolio, further strengthening the Group’s motoring brands under Albatross Motoring Limited.
Following the challenges faced by the travel industry during the global pandemic, Albatross has returned to a position of strength and in early 2024, Magari Tours was launched, a new consumer brand offering immersive, small-group holidays focused on discovering the “real” Italy. Most recently, Norman Allen Group Travel (NAGT) joined the Group, bringing together two of the UK’s most established coach wholesaling businesses under common ownership while continuing to operate independently.
Today, the Group generates annual sales of nearly £50 million. The Group remains focused on delivering outstanding service to customers, clients and suppliers, building a sustainable and resilient business grounded in long-term relationships.
Leadership continuity has been central to the Group’s success. Steve Hornby has spent his life in travel and joined Albatross in 1999, eventually partnering with Adam Handy in a management buyout in 2017. Adam joined the Group in 2007 as Chief Financial Officer, following senior roles at Thomas Cook and Cosmos. Denise Bridges, a highly respected industry figure, serves on the Group board and is Managing Director of Albatross Travel, leading coach wholesaling operations and supplier relationships.
Community engagement is also an important part of the Group’s identity. The Claire Foster Memorial Fund, established in 2009, supports local causes nominated by employees.
In 2025, Albatross proudly celebrated its 40th anniversary – marking four decades of growth, evolution and leadership within the group tourism sector.