Founded in 2001, we are a thriving community of over 250 Members, all supporting each other in the exchange of information, expertise, and knowledge. Our aim is to analyse, develop and raise the understanding, practice and profession of battlefield guiding, and to promote the education of battlefield guides and visitors.
Our members come from all walks of life, some start guiding young and others take it up as a later career or hobby.
What we have in common is a passion for military history and a desire to pass that on to whoever we guide. Hopefully everyone going on a battlefield tour gains some knowledge of important events in our history to better understand the present.
You will find our members guiding or presenting in all sorts of locations. Mainly on the battlefields, but also in clubs, village halls and even on cruise ships!
Whether individuals, groups, school children, families, or military personnel, our experienced guides can tailor a tour, study exercise or presentation for you.
Some of our members also use the battlefield for corporate management training.
Members wear the Guild’s badges with pride as a symbolic statement about a commitment to high-quality battlefield guiding. Those who wear the Accredited Members’ badge have demonstrated their commitment and expertise by completing our Accreditation Programme.
Next time you think about visiting a battlefield, choose an International Guild of Battlefields Guide member!
The Guild is a friendly organisation where being a member is not just for work purposes. Many lasting friendships have been made by our members (as well as a few partnerships!) by attending Guild events.
We are also a membership organisation that aims to create a safe and welcoming atmosphere for everyone who shares its aims and values.
We believe in equality and diversity, as well as providing a safe environment for all, which are reflected in our Equality and Diversity, and Safeguarding Policies, backed up by our Code of Conduct.
Read about the Guild’s Member badges and what they signify
See the benefits of joining
How to become accredited
Join or renew your membership
We aim to:
- Elevate the standard and practice of battlefield guiding.
- Promote the education of battlefield guides and visitors.
- Encourage the sharing of knowledge, experience, and values.
(The 3 “E’s”)
How do we do it?
- We share expertise, knowledge and best practice through talks and events focused on guiding and battlefield issues
- We foster international links and share knowledge and experience with Guides in all locations
- We provide a weekly email Newsletter on current and relevant guide and battlefield news
- We spread information amongst members and to a wider audience interested in battlefields through our Facebook, Instagram and “X” accounts
- We publish a Guild magazine – “Despatches” – carrying useful information and articles on guiding issues, concerns and interests
- We support a community that connects to exchange information, make mutually beneficial links and develop friendships