Ian Barton

Posted March 4, 2019

Ian Barton

Schools and Groups Manager

I first started playing sport in Africa as a child and it very quickly became a large part of my life. I played cricket and rugby at university and soon caught the touring bug.

My first job was with Edwin Doran Sports Travel and had a great 23 years there, highlights being meeting my wife and many great friends along the way. With the advent of my own kids, my sporting prowess is now limited to a little 20/20 cricket, bit of golf, tennis, squash and the annual ski trip. I have also been lucky enough to give a little back and I was lead coach for Teddington RFC Minis for seven years and I also umpire hockey at Teddington Hockey Club.

Over the years I have managed to visit many of the places I sent tours to and I am in a great position to advise any potential tourists on what, where and when to tour. I particularly enjoy making tours special through adding unique cultural and social aspects.

I am excited to be working with Venatour, like-minded folk and to be getting back to my roots as well as making each tour run smoothly and being as memorable as possible.

Barbara and I had a wonderful weekend in Dublin with Venatour. We have been to Dublin many times for Six Nations matches but never with Venatour. The hotel was ideal because of it's nearness to the ground and numerous restaurants. We found our tour guides very friendly and helpful. Our fellow supporters were also very friendly and pleasant. A thoroughly enjoyable trip despite the result! We hope to travel with Venatour to future matches.

Alan & Barbara Barker 6 Nations 2017, Ireland v England
Just wanted to say a big thank you for organising our Rugby tour this year. Everything worked as planned and we all had a fantastic time. The hotel was just at the level required, bar below was enjoyed by all. Breakfast at the hotel followed by pasta at both the clubs and Pizza on Saturday night all delicious. Your associates on the ground in Italy where very nice and helpful and on time. Our hosts at both clubs welcomed us and the boys played some great rugby at a very competitive level. As you know the success of a tour is really the bonding experience that happens in all directions and I have to say this tour achieved it. Smiley tired happy faces left Gatwick on our return with a great appreciation for Rugby and its Family. Well done and thankyou from all of us at Chobham RFC Colts for helping to make this tour a success.

Kevin, Mark & Conor Chobham RFC