Top 50 2025 - Yorkshire – Arundel Travel, Otley

Set in a prominent grade II listed building in the market town of Otley, next to one of the county’s top pork pie producers, the Arundel Travel, Otley team have made the most of their prime street-corner location.

The agency looks a picture – you can’t miss it with its distinctive pink branding. Pop in and you’ll feel right at home in this light, airy, welcoming shop. New for this year, situated just round the corner, is the agency’s comfy travel lounge, complete with a projector, sofas, coffee machine (and well-stocked fridge!). It’s a tremendous addition, and gives the team – particularly long-haul specialist Libby – a place to run through complex or sensitive trips in more detail with clients. 

Speaking of the team, they are a mix of experienced pros and new talents; owner/director Helen is still very much the driving force, but she’s taking time out to share her 30 years’ industry experience with the next generation of agents at Leeds City College. Operations director Bea oversees the team, while Helen’s husband Nick has hung up his paint brushes to go full-time. Claire is the agency’s font of all knowledge, Evie its marketing and social media whizz and Abbie its up-and-coming future star. Helen’s focus on training means Arundel runs a busy work experience schedule. 

Head to Arundel’s social media for ideas – the “favourite destination of 2024” video was a big success. No one is target driven either, so rest assured clients are always the team’s first priority. They also work closely with Leeds Bradford airport to bring clients the newest destinations available from their local airport. The agency’s VIP card has been a hit, offering £60 off breaks. Every fourth booking, customers can opt for an enhancement they wouldn’t normally book such as extra legroom seats or excursions. Plus, if you write a blog about your holiday, you’ll get £50 off your next one.

The team take pride in their place in the community too, and have forged strong ties with other businesses and particularly local sports teams and events, which they support with sponsorship. Look out for Arundel on Otley’s annual snowman trail too at Christmas.

arundeltravel.co.uk