DATE
16.02.22
Shona Thorne has always been passionate about travel. For many years she spoke of her desire to own and operate her own travel agency, but she kept putting it off.
Finally in 2009, with the support of her family, Shona ‘bit the bullet’ and opened a small store on the Main Street of her hometown, Kilwinning.
Shona’s mission was simple - she wanted to specialise in providing quality holidays at great prices, combined with outstanding customer service.
This proved to be a recipe for success and the business has steadily expanded over the years, creating employment opportunities for local people and supporting other local businesses wherever possible.
Thorne Travel - Our Journey
Thorne Travel has undergone remarkable growth and achievement. In 2013, the establishment of Thorne Experience broadened its services to include day trips, overnight excursions, and theatre tours, coinciding with a move to larger premises.
The company gained widespread recognition in 2014 with a viral promotional video and continued its success trajectory with accolades such as the Travel Weekly Promotion of the Year Award in 2015 and the Best Luxury Travel Agency Award in 2017.
Repeatedly recognized for excellence, Thorne Travel secured top honours including TTG Scotland's Top Travel Agency Award and TTG UK and Ireland's Number One Travel Agency Award in 2018.
Demonstrating a commitment to community, the establishment of 'All About the Magic' in 2019 aimed to support disadvantaged families locally.
Continuing to lead the industry, Thorne Travel introduced the eco-friendly luxury coach 'Destiny' in 2021 and expanded its reach in 2022 with a merger with Largs Travel and the opening of a second store in Largs, alongside the launch of the Cruise Department ‘Cruising With Thorne Travel’.
The year 2024 marked another milestone as Thorne Travel expanded further, opening its third branch in Prestwick, coinciding with yet another win of the prestigious TTG Scotland's Top Travel Agency Award.
Thorne Travel's journey exemplifies an unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation, and community engagement, solidifying its position as a leader in the travel industry.
We are very grateful to all of our customers for their continued support. It is thanks to all of you that our business has flourished over the years.
