Based in Eldon Square on Tyneside, the new outlet is part of a £1.5 million investment for the company - pushing its total number of UK stores to 61.

Headed-up by manager Vanessa Rowley, the shop employs 16 travel specialists with Barrhead anticipating more growth due to a forecasted busy summer season.

Sharon Munro, chief executive for Barrhead Travel, believed the new store will give the company, which was founded in Glasgow, an “outstanding platform” to help customers, she said: “We are very excited to have launched our store in Newcastle.

“Our store in Eldon Square gives us an outstanding platform to meet our commitment of delivering the best and most comprehensive travel experience to our customers in the North East.

“Trends have shown us that people are heading back to their trusted high street travel agents in droves as they appreciate the help and expertise that a travel specialist can give them, rather than spending hours looking for a deal online.”