Major UK Travel Company Collapses, Canceling All Holidays After 30 Years
A prominent travel company in the UK has announced its closure, resulting in the cancellation of all holidays. Gold Crest Holidays, which operated for over 30 years, has officially ceased trading and entered voluntary liquidation.
Details of the Closure
Based in Ilkley, West Yorkshire, Gold Crest Holidays declared its cessation of operations on January 23, 2026. The family-owned business was known for organizing trips to Disneyland Paris, European city breaks, and various sporting events.
Reasons for Liquidation
The company cited several financial pressures as the primary reasons for its closure. Key factors included:
- The ongoing repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Changes in essential business agreements.
- An increasingly challenging trading environment marked by rising costs.
Impact on Customers
All future departures from Gold Crest Holidays have been canceled. The company expressed its deep sadness regarding their inability to continue operations. They thanked their customers, travel agents, suppliers, and staff for their loyalty and support over the years.
Customers affected by the cancellation are encouraged to seek refunds through ABTA, which is managing claims related to the company’s financial failure. Specific instructions regarding refunds for those who booked directly or through travel agents are available.
Refund Process
- If you booked via a travel agent, contact them for support.
- For direct bookings, follow guidance provided by ABTA.
- Credit card users can download a referral letter for refunds from their issuers.
Company Background
Gold Crest Holidays earned a solid reputation among its clientele, reflected in a high number of five-star ratings on Trustpilot. The closure marks the end of an era for the company, which has been a staple in the UK travel industry.
