(Image: Supplied)
YORKSHIRE is set to train a new cohort of Blue Badge tourist guides for the first time in more than a decade.
Rising visitor numbers and growing demand for immersive experiences have highlighted the need for more accredited guides, especially in areas outside traditional hotspots like York and the Dales.
Sarah Cowling, course director, said: "Yorkshire has an extraordinary story to tell, but we need the storytellers to tell it."
The Blue Badge is an internationally recognised qualification for professional tourist guiding, but no new guides have qualified in Yorkshire since 2014.
The new 15-month training programme will begin in January 2027 and include 240 hours of fieldwork and 10 study trips across the region.
Trainees will visit locations including Skipton, Bradford, Leeds, Doncaster, Ripon, Scarborough, Hull and York.
Ms Cowling said: "Guiding isn't reserved for academics or retirees.
"It’s about freedom, flexibility and building a career on your terms.
"You don't need a university degree or prior experience to do this.
"If you’ve got energy, curiosity and a love for Yorkshire we will teach you everything else you need to know."
Applications close on October 9, 2026.
For more information, visit this LINK or email training@yorkshiresbestguides.co.uk.