Institute of Tourist Guiding launches petition to ban loudspeakers, citing noise pollution as a key threat to the visitor experience

The Institute of Tourist Guiding (Institute), the standard-setting body for professional tourist guides in England, Northern Ireland and Jersey, today announced a major new campaign to combat noise pollution, calling for a ban on the use of loudspeakers during guiding across the country. Tourism and heritage stakeholders and the general public are being asked to sign a petition to end the incessant use of loudspeakers in tourist guiding.

The Institute strongly believes that the use of loudspeakers, not a practice of Institute-qualified guides, is shattering the peace of historic sites and public spaces. The campaign highlights that the incessant noise disrupts local residents, devalues the experience for visitors, and is a disrespectful intrusion on Britain's most cherished heritage locations and traditions.

“The sound of a guide shouting into a loudspeaker is a public nuisance that has no place in our cities, towns, or heritage sites.” said Jackie Clare, Institute President. “It's time to reclaim our public spaces from this kind of noise pollution. We are calling on local councils and heritage sites to take a stand and mandate a return to considerate, human-scale guiding.”

The Institute emphasises that its qualified Blue, Green and White Badge members are a crucial part of the solution to this type of incessant disruption and its side effects. Professional guides are trained to lead tours respectfully and effectively without resorting to disruptive devices. They manage group dynamics and navigate busy areas with skill, ensuring a high-quality experience for visitors that doesn't compromise the peace of the local environment.

For larger groups, the Institute prefers the use of low-impact technology, such as personal audio headsets, which allow visitors to hear their guide clearly without disturbing the surrounding area. This approach ensures both an authentic, in depth tour and a quiet, respectful experience for everyone.

“Our campaign is about more than just banning a device; it’s about restoring respect to our communities and preserving the tranquility of our heritage for future generations,” Jackie Clare added. “Professional guides lead by example. Join us in our fight to silence the loudspeakers and restore a sense of peace, one tour at a time.”

Sign our petition: https://www.itg.org.uk/loudspeakers-petition