Self-proclaimed tour guide outside Buckingham Palace
Yesterday, while leading a walking tour of London for my English students, I found myself outside Buckingham Palace wearing my high-visibility jacket as a safety precaution. A man in a similar high-viz tabard approached me, questioning if I was a tour guide and declaring that I was “on his turf.” I noticed he had no ID or lanyard, just a tabard with “Tour Guide” hastily written in felt-tip marker!
After determining that I wasn’t a competitor, he then started shouting nonsensically into a megaphone at the gathered crowd.
I’m left wondering what was going on. Is it common for official guides to promote themselves in such a manner? Could this have been a scam? It was quite amusing in retrospect, but I want to ensure I’m not misrepresenting myself during my future visits. Any insights would be appreciated! Thanks in advance.
It sounds like you had quite an unusual experience! What you encountered is unfortunately not uncommon in tourist-heavy areas. The man you described likely wasn’t a licensed or official tour guide but rather someone attempting to attract attention and possibly generate tips through his antics.
In London, there are indeed strict regulations regarding who can operate as a tour guide. Official tour guides typically have qualifications and must carry appropriate identification, such as a badge or lanyard, indicating they are accredited. Those without such credentials often resort to less formal tactics, like shouting into megaphones, to draw in crowds.
While it’s generally safe to engage with official guides, it’s wise to verify their credentials if you’re unsure. Look for a professional appearance, appropriate identification, and any recognizable badges from respected guiding associations. It’s great that you’re being cautious about how you present yourself on future visits, as maintaining credibility is important in the role of a guide. If you’re genuinely guiding students, just keep being mindful of how you present yourself, and trust your instincts when you encounter less reputable characters like the one you described!
Observations on Tour Guiding Etiquette and Safety in London
As a fellow London resident and someone who often explores our city’s rich history, I wanted to share some insights that might help clarify the situation you encountered.
First, it’s important to recognize that all official tour guides in London are required to be certified and display valid identification, often with a badge or lanyard issued by an authorized organization such as the Guild of Registered Tourist Guides. Their presence is usually well-managed and coordinated, especially around major landmarks like Buckingham Palace.
The individual you described, wearing a hastily written tabard with no official ID, does not seem to be an authorized guide. This kind of unregulated behavior can sometimes be associated with unofficial or even scammy touring practices, which might confuse visitors or passersby. Sadly, there have been instances where individuals pretend to be guides to attract attention or solicit money.
In terms of safety and professionalism, I recommend:
It’s amusing to think about, but it also highlights the importance of official guides maintaining visibility and professionalism