What started as a passion project for golf enthusiast Lewis Remington grew into one of the UK’s most successful travel businesses. Founded in 2017, Golf Holidays Direct became a trusted name in the industry, known for delivering premium golf experiences to over 300,000 customers and generating more than £22 million in annual revenue.
By 2025, the company was acquired by billionaire investor Fred Done, marking a major milestone in Lewis’s entrepreneurial journey.
How Did Lewis Remington Succeed in Building a Golf Travel Powerhouse from Scratch?
Turning a Passion into a Business
Lewis’s lifelong love of golf gave him a unique insight into what players truly wanted from a golf holiday. Spotting a gap in the market for a customer-driven provider, he began researching top-tier courses and securing partnerships across Europe and beyond. His aim was simple: to create bespoke, hassle-free golf breaks with a focus on service, quality, and detail.
Laying the Foundations
In the early days, Lewis personally handled all aspects of the business, from customer support to resort negotiations. He reinvested every penny of profit into growing the operation, hiring a skilled team and expanding the company’s online presence.
Even during the turbulence of the COVID-19 pandemic, he remained agile, introducing virtual consultations and implementing safety-first policies that kept customers engaged and reassured.
Recognition and Rapid Expansion
Under Lewis’s leadership, Golf Holidays Direct experienced impressive year-on-year growth. In 2024, it was named among The Sunday Times Top 100 Fastest Growing Companies.
Clients regularly praised the company’s attention to detail and smooth service, with innovations such as live customer feedback tools and tailored itinerary planning playing a key role in customer retention.
A Major Exit
In 2025, Lewis finalised a deal with Sports Tours International, the world’s leading running and cycling travel company founded by Betfred’s Fred Done.
The acquisition was agreed for an undisclosed eight-figure sum, a reflection of the brand’s strength, strong customer base, and consistent performance. The deal marked one of the most notable exits in the UK sports travel sector in recent years.
Leading with Vision
Lewis’s leadership has been characterised by transparency, accountability, and a clear strategic vision. His focus on building a team culture based on trust and pride helped fuel innovation and long-term success. He credits much of the company’s growth to empowering staff and keeping customer satisfaction at the core of every decision.
Future Plans
Post-acquisition, Lewis continues to serve as Managing Director, working closely with the new owners to ensure a seamless transition. His plans for the future include launching new international destinations, investing in booking technology, and positioning Golf Holidays Direct as the leading global brand for golf travel.
Lewis Remington’s rise from solo founder to respected business leader is a compelling example of how passion, resilience, and a customer-first mindset can transform a simple idea into a thriving enterprise.
