As one of the longest established adventure travel tour operators in the UK, Classic Journeys is proud of its independence. Originating as a Himalayan trekking company, Ann Brooks and Noel Walshe founded Classic Nepal in 1985 after a prolonged period of independant travelling and trekking in India and Nepal. As the name suggests, the company specialised in organising and operating trekking holidays throughout the Nepal Himalaya. Both Ann and Noel were very active in leading the treks and researching new itineraries. As the years progressed and with an increasing number of clients, new destinations were added to the portfolio to include India, Tibet, Bhutan, Sri Lanka and the occasional foray into Pakistan.

In 1993, the 40th anniversary year of the first ascent of Mt. Everest by Sir Edmund Hillary and Sherpa Norgay Tenzing, Classic Nepal were given the responsibility of organising a return visit to Nepal and the Everest region for members of the original 1953 team and their families. The group included the 1953 team leader, Sir John Hunt and climbing members George Lowe, Michael Westmacott, George Band and Charles Wylie. The group spent several days at "reunion camp" on the outskirts of Lukla in the Everest region along with Sir Edmund Hillary. Here three film crews (from the UK and New Zealand) interviewed the group members as they fondly recalled memories of the 1953 expedition. From "reunion camp" the group completed a trek in the Everest region, visiting old friends and Himalayn Trust schools and projects. Everywhere they were given a warm welcome.

As Ann recalls - "it was an absolute privilege to be asked to make the arrangements for such an important group and to spend time with such a wonderful group of people and to be part in some small way of such an historical event. Memories of this trek will remain with us for ever".

As the years progressed we continued to explore new destinations. In 1998 our name changed to Classic Journeys. Nepal however will always be a core destination - probably the best trekking destination in the world with the most friendly people and we have so many friends there.

Very sadly, in June 2009 Noel passed away, very suddenly and unexpectedly. Noel was loved by many and he will always be missed by those who knew him.

With the help of friends and colleagues Classic Journeys has survived such a massive blow and Ann, along with John and Jeanette continue to move the company forward with the same passion and enthusiasm that has been with us from the very start.

We are now one of the most respected worldwide adventure travel companies in the business.

Whichever trip you choose there are several common features…