John Barker has been hosting, directing and running bridge holidays for over 15 years, bringing together well-run bridge, inclusive formats and a genuine sense of ease that defines Bridge Collection holidays. For the past six years he has also hosted alongside Sarah, but John regularly hosts holidays independently, offering guests a relaxed yet confidently delivered bridge programme.

Away from holiday bridge, John plays regularly for his County Bridge Team and enjoys weekly games with Andrew Kambites, author of several respected bridge books — a partnership that keeps his play sharp and his teaching grounded in modern thinking. Before bridge became his professional focus, John ran a successful photography business across the UK, working with clients including Sea Life Centres, Haven Holidays and Pontins – experience that shaped his instinctive understanding of people, presentation and service.

Bridge Experience

John has been playing bridge seriously for over 16 years and has spent much of that time sharing his knowledge with others.

• Teaching experience: 14 years, with a focus on advanced-level play

• Directing experience:
  – 16 years as a Club Director
  – 4 years as a County Director

John delivers seminars both in the UK and on holiday, offering sessions designed to support players at all levels, from improving partnerships to developing more confident competitive play. As a highly experienced and well-ranked player, he is comfortable adapting his delivery to suit the mix of guests on each holiday.

Hosting & Teaching Style

John believes that while bridge holidays should retain a healthy sense of competition, they should never lose sight of the fact that guests are on holiday. His approach is rooted in inclusion, encouragement and balance, ensuring that players of all standards feel welcome and involved.

In the bridge room, John is a strong advocate of seeded teams and handicapped pairs, allowing less experienced players a genuine chance to compete while keeping the game enjoyable for stronger partnerships. This format is consistently appreciated across all abilities and helps create a positive, relaxed atmosphere throughout the week.

Beyond the tables, John places real value on the social side of holiday bridge, often introducing informal activities that encourage guests to mix and unwind – from quizzes and games to light-hearted competitions. It’s an approach that regularly results in guests returning year after year.

Other Hobbies and Interests

John has always enjoyed sport and has represented his county in three different disciplines over the years  chess (at the age of 13), hockey, and now bridge. Earlier in his career he worked for Crystal Ski Holidays, spending eight years as an area manager, and still enjoys skiing when time allows.

More recently, John has discovered a fondness for pickleball, building Lego, and following Norwich City Football Club – pursuits that reflect his easy-going nature and wide-ranging interests.

A Fun Fact About John

One of John’s favourite stories predates his bridge career. In 1981, he was at Headingley when he placed a 50p bet on England to beat Australia at odds of 500–1. The resulting £250 win meant a great deal at the time. Years later, while working as a professional photographer aboard the SS Canberra, John met Bob Willis – the bowler who had famously taken the decisive wickets that day – a moment that neatly closed the circle on a memory he still enjoys sharing.