To kick off 2026, we caught up with Carrie Taylor, Branch Manager at Premier Travel in Royston.
Carrie has lived in Royston nearly all her life and has just celebrated her 25th year working at Premier Travel. She’s been married for 15 years and has three children, though spends a lot of her time being a taxi service for them (!) and helps out with the admin for her son’s football team.
For herself, Carrie loves to run and has completed London Marathon three times, though she does confess that her runs are getting slower and shorter these days!
Tell us about Premier Travel in Royston…
Premier Travel is a privately owned, independent travel agency with over 90 years’ experience in the travel industry. Royston is one of the 31 branches throughout East Anglia and Southern England.
Being independent, we have the flexibility to work with a multitude of tour operators to offer the widest range of travel products, from traditional UK holidays, bespoke tailor-made journeys around the world, cruises, city stays, beach holidays and theatre breaks, to an overseas wedding of your dreams.
As a company, we pride ourselves on being friendly, knowledgeable and enthusiastic. Our travel specialists have a passion for travel, and have travelled extensively. This ensures we are up to date with all travel related issues and able to offer impartial advice along with first-hand knowledge and expertise. We believe in an honest “tell it how it is” approach to planning an itinerary, suggesting sights, selecting accommodation and discussing the practicalities of travel.
What are the benefits of using a High Street travel agent, rather than going online or planning it yourself?
Booking with a travel agent means expert advice, tailored trips, and peace of mind. We save you time, find the best deals, and add extras you won’t get online. Plus, you’re protected and have real support if plans change so there are no call centre headaches!
What do you love about your work?
I love matching people with the right holiday and hearing all about it when they return. I love that
we have so many regular customers that I have been looking after for years. I particularly like putting tailor made itineraries together. I have had some amazing opportunities to travel the world. Premier Travel is like one big family, and we have great social events throughout the year to get together.
What’s your favourite local place to eat?
I really like Mitr, the owners are so friendly and attentive, and the food is great. I love to go to Kooky Nohmad for a brunch and Moreno’s do the best jacket potatoes! We are really lucky with the number of places to eat in Royston.
Your favourite local Shop?
La Bella Vita is wonderful; you can always find lovely clothing and accessories in there along with things for the home.
What is the last book you read?
I’ve just finished the last book in the Housemaid series by Frieda McFadden, they keep you on the edge of your seat and I can’t wait to watch the film this month.
What is your favourite way to spend a Saturday?
Watching my son play football for Royston U11’s, brunch at Kooky, then a bit of shopping or taking my daughter to a dance competition.
What makes living in Royston special?
I love the sense of community in Royston and the wonderful countryside around us, particularly the Heath for walks and running.
What is your favourite place in the world?
India! I have not long returned from the most amazing trip to the South, discovering the beautiful sights, food, culture and people. I would definitely recommend.
What are you looking forward to most this January?
January is the busiest month in travel so I am looking forward to finding people their dream holidays.
What inspirational quote sums you up?
“Travel is the only thing that you buy that makes you richer.”
Premier Travel Royston – 29 High St Royston, SG8 9AA – 01763 211 211 – www.premier-travel.co.uk – FB @PremierTravelRoyston
