Thomas Cook is known across the globe for travel, due to the inspiration and commitment of Thomas Cook himself, who founded his travel company on 5 July 1841, through successfully launching a one-day rail excursion running from Leicester to Loughborough.

Thomas Cook UK & Ireland is now the second largest leisure travel group in the United Kingdom, employing around 19,000 people. It is now part of Thomas Cook plc, formed in June 2007 through the merger of Thomas Cook AG and MyTravel Group plc.

As well as being famous for its powerful presence in the travel sector, Thomas Cook also offers a range of financial services, including foreign exchange, the Thomas Cook Credit Card, the cash passport and a wide range of travel insurance policies. It is FSA regulated for its travel insurance, which is underwritten by AXA.