(Image: Pic supplied)
A York-based escorted rail holiday company has reported strong financial growth, with turnover rising by 26 per cent to £139.8 million.
Great Rail Journeys saw its operating profit climb to £14.9 million, up from £7.3 million the previous year.
The performance was detailed in the company’s annual strategic report for the year ending October 31, 2025.
The wider Group of which the company is a member was acquired on May 30 2025 by special limited partnerships comprising the investment fund “Vitruvian Investment Partnership V”, each of which are managed by Vitruvian Partners LLP.
- Great Rail Journeys of York bought by Vitruvian Partners
- CEO Dave Riley to drive Great Rail Journeys of York
- Great Rail Journeys relocates to Hudson Quarter, York
- New owners acquire York travel business
Directors said the acquisition and wider group capitalisation support ambitions for continued growth.
Non-financial indicators also pointed to positive momentum, including improvements in customer satisfaction, load factors, and passenger numbers.
Great Rail Journeys specialises in rail and river cruise holidays for the 55+ market.
The Directors said: "This age cohort is forecast to grow further proportionately whilst wealth bifurcation will continue to see disposable income for this group rise, giving this market resilient and long-term sustainable growth opportunities."
Growth was reported across all product categories, driven by increased passenger volumes and higher average selling prices.
This contributed to improved tour load factors and margins.
Gross profit reached £33.3 million, compared to £26.1 million the previous year, while post-tax profit surged to £19.9 million from £6.3 million.
The company ended the financial year with net assets of £49.2 million, up from £29.3 million in 2024.
Directors credited much of the growth to successful yield management, operational scalability, and a strong forward booking position.
Looking ahead, the company plans to broaden its product offering within its current geographical markets, invest in technology to enhance the customer journey, and build on its success in river cruising.
Other priorities include launching a new booking platform to support growth in non-group rail travel markets and introducing further customer experience improvements before, during, and after travel.
Directors said these changes would “drive revenue and profits” in the long term.
They said: "Coupled with the aforementioned strategic initiatives, the directors believe the company is well positioned for a period of sustained growth across 2026 and subsequent years."
The company remains optimistic for the 2026 financial year, citing a strong “earlies” booking window and robust forward order book.
Directors believe these factors provide visibility and confidence in meeting their financial targets.