TUI has launched its first-ever direct flights from Birmingham to Banjul, The Gambia, opening up one of the UK’s best-value winter sun spots.
*All details correct at time of publish (22 May 2026)
Taking off from 2 November 2026, the new weekly Monday service will fly customers straight to Banjul in around six hours, a tempting alternative to long-haul destinations like the Caribbean or Thailand.
Prices for a package holiday start from £800 per person and include flights, accommodation, transfers, luggage and all the all-inclusive food and drink you can handle.
The route joins TUI’s existing Gambia departures from London Gatwick and Manchester Airports, giving Brits even more choice when it comes to escaping the cold.
Chris Logan, Commercial Director at TUI UK, said: “We know Brits are looking for winter sun that delivers great value without the long flight times, and destinations like The Gambia are seeing real growth as a result.
“You can be on the beach in just over six hours, enjoy guaranteed sunshine, and with a TUI package holiday, everything’s included from flights, accommodation, transfers, luggage, food and drink, making it an easy, great-value alternative to traditional long-haul hotspots.”
With temperatures hitting around 30°C between November and April, The Gambia is a go-to for guaranteed winter sun. Think wide golden beaches, warm seas and sunshine pretty much every day.
Known as the “Smiling Coast of Africa”, it’s also famous for its friendly locals, laid-back vibe and buzzing beachside scene, with bars, restaurants and live music lining hotspots like the Senegambia Strip.
There’s plenty to do beyond the beach, from exploring colourful local markets to spotting wildlife or taking a river cruise along the Gambia River. It’s also a dream for birdwatchers, with hundreds of species to see just minutes from the main resorts.
With sunshine, sandy beaches and standout value all wrapped into one easy package, The Gambia is fast becoming one of the UK’s hottest winter sun picks, and now it’s never been easier for travellers from the Midlands to get there.
TUI travel agent Linda Sharrocks, who has worked in the industry for 28 years, recently visited The Gambia and says it offers reliable winter sun without the long flight to destinations like the Caribbean or Thailand.
She highlighted the beaches, friendly locals and affordable prices, as well as experiences beyond the resorts, including markets, wildlife and river cruises. Kololi Beach was one of her favourite areas and suggests exploring local restaurants, bars and live music spots to experience the destination properly.
Matt Hazelwood, Chief Commercial Officer at Birmingham Airport, said: “We are delighted to welcome The Gambia back to our list of direct destinations with TUI.
“This popular winter sun getaway is easily accessible from Birmingham Airport, offering beautiful sandy beaches, stunning scenery, and nature reserves rich in Gambian wildlife, all just a six-hour flight from BHX.”
For more information, visit www.tui.co.uk.
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