August 28, 2025
Jarvis v Swans Tours Ltd [1972] EWCA Civ 8 (16 October 1972)
Mr Jarvis booked a Swiss holiday based on a brochure's grand promises, which proved disastrously false. He sued for breach of contract. The court awarded him damages not just for financial loss, but also for his disappointment and distress, a landmark ruling. Facts The plaintiff, Mr Jarvis, a solicitor, booked a 15-day Christmas winter sports holiday in Mörlialp, Switzerland, with the defendants, Swans Tours Ltd. He was persuaded to book the holiday based on the defendants’ promotional brochure, which described the trip in effusive terms. The brochure advertised a ‘house-party’ atmosphere with a special resident host, welcome party, afternoon tea,
