Who we are
Edwin Doran Sports Tours is the industry leader in global school and group sports travel. With over 50 years of experience, we deliver unforgettable sports tours to the world’s most inspiring destinations. From rugby in South Africa to hockey in the Netherlands and cricket in India, we help teams train, compete and grow in world-class environments.
Our offices in London, Manchester, Cape Town and Pretoria, along with trusted global partners from Europe, Australia and Canada to Argentina, Chile, the Middle East and the Far East, ensure seamless support wherever your team travels.
Wherever you want to play, the world really is your oyster.
Our story
Since 1974, Edwin Doran Sports Tours has been at the forefront of international sports touring. Founded by Edwin Doran himself – who left the paperwork of insurance behind for the excitement of world travel – the company became one of the first dedicated school and group sports tour operators. His passion for sport still drives us today.
Across five decades, our commitment to expertise, integrity and personal service has earned us a reputation as the most trusted sports tour provider in the UK and beyond.
Knowledge through experience
We have taken more teams on tour than any other sports travel company – over 15,000 tours at the last count. Our team is made up of passionate sports people who have all played, coached or toured themselves.
With Edwin Doran, you can expect:
Our destination knowledge runs deep – from iconic hotspots to off-the-beaten-track sporting gems.
Unrivalled customer support
As part of the Experience Education student travel group, we provide outstanding financial security, health and safety standards and dependable on-tour support, all while maintaining the personal service of a smaller specialist operator.
Our long-serving staff and in-destination partners ensure you always have someone who knows your group, understands your needs and supports you throughout your journey.
Edwin’s passion for sport will be his legacy and our driving force for years to come.
Sustainability
We are committed to responsible sports travel, reducing our environmental impact and supporting destinations in meaningful, long-term ways.
Our sustainability efforts focus on:
Sport has the power to inspire – and we want to protect the places that make these experiences possible.
Charity work
Giving back is part of who we are. We proudly support:
- Inspire Children & Youth
- UK military and veterans’ charities
- Local sports development programmes
We also support commemorative projects such as the VE80 Remembrance Poppy Installation, honouring Bomber Command service members with handcrafted ceramic poppies.
Our accreditations
We provide complete financial and operational security through:
You are in safe hands with a company trusted by thousands of schools, clubs, universities and military units worldwide.
Meet MasterClass Sports Tours,
Our sister company
MasterClass Sports Tours specialises in European sport development trips, taking more than 3,000 students on tour every year.
Their short-haul tours offer:
Together, we offer the most complete range of sports tours – from nearby European trips to long-haul adventures in South Africa, India, Australia, the USA and beyond.
Our values
Over 50 years of expertise
We know exactly what is needed to deliver a safe, inspiring sports tour.
Personal, friendly service
One consistent point of contact from planning to returning home.
Satisfaction and security
As part of the Experience Education student travel group, we provide world-leading support and peace of mind.
Plan with experts, book with confidence
Have a question or want to start planning your sports tour?
Contact our sports team on 0203 627 7983 or request a quote below.
From planning to packing,
your group travel questions, answered
Do you provide risk assessments?
We can provide information to help you complete your specific risk assessment. Please speak to your Tour Operator regarding any risk assessment queries you might have. As a fully assured member of the School Travel Forum (STF) our health and safety assessments meet the requirements of the STF. We also hold the LOtC Quality Badge.
Do we need travel insurance?
Yes. We provide travel insurance in partnership with Endsleigh Insurance which offers a policy specifically designed for your tour itinerary.
What happens if I cancel a passenger(s)?
You, or any member of your party, may cancel your travel arrangements at any time. Written notification from the person who made the booking must be given and the cancellation will be effective from the date it is received. Since we incur costs in cancelling your travel arrangements, you will have to pay the applicable cancellation charges shown below:
| Period before departure in which you notify us | Cancellation charge |
|---|---|
| More than 84 days | Deposits only |
| 83-56 days | 50% of the tour costs |
| More than 55-29 days | 70% of the tour costs |
| Less than 28-0 days | 100% of the tour costs |
What support will I have from Edwin Doran whilst on tour?
A member of our team will be contactable 24/7 via an emergency number which can be found in your final tour pack. See our full list of accreditations to see how we’re committed to providing sports tours that adhere to the highest health and safety standards.
