The Scottish Tourist Guides Association (STGA) is Scotland’s body of professional tourist guides.
We are the only professionally trained and accredited tourist guides in the country.
We are part of the Federation of European Guides (FEG) and World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations (WFTGA).
The Blue Badge is the mark of quality and professionalism in tourist guiding around the world and fully trained and qualified members of the STGA are the only holders of the badge in Scotland. The badge displays our Coat of Arms which is protected by the Lord Lyon.
The Blue Badge is only awarded after rigorous and detailed training ( minimum 2 years) and all our members have passed comprehensive assessments in all aspects of guiding. We undertake continuous, ongoing development and training to keep our knowledge and skills up to date.
If you want a guarantee that your guide is creditable and knowledgeable, knows their stuff and how to put it across, that they are fully qualified and insured, and that they are passionate about Scotland – then speak to us!
What they say about us
The Scottish Government
Fergus Ewing MSP, Minister for Energy, Enterprise and Tourism … “The Scottish Government is delighted to endorse the work of the Scottish Tourist Guides Association in recognition of their worldwide reputation and quality work and training. I commend the passion and knowledge they bring to guiding and congratulate them on continuing to set the standard in this area.”
Visit Scotland
VisitScotland is delighted to recognise the Scottish Tourist Guides Association as the professional membership body for fully trained and accredited tourist guides in Scotland. STGA accredited guides are passionate ambassadors for Scotland and in providing our visitors with information and inspiration, help deliver a memorable experience for them.”
Riddell Graham
Director of Partnerships, VisitScotland
In Scotland ONLY the STGA is recognised as the membership association for professional, qualified and accredited tourist guides by the World Federation of Tourist Guide Associations (WFTGA) and the Federation of European Tourist Guides Association (FEG).
Our Guarantee of Quality
The Coat of Arms on our badge is our guarantee of quality and only our members are permitted to wear it. Its use is protected for us by the Lord Lyon, King at Arms and his court.
Our Blue Badge guides are qualified to guide all over Scotland.
We can offer tours all over Scotland in 19 different languages.
