Arthur's Seat fire: Heritage body expresses sadness at Edinburgh beauty spot's third wildfire in 12 months

Historic Environment Scotland (HES) has issued a statement after a huge fire near Arthur’s Seat saw fire crews battling the blaze throughout the night. The heritage body said it was “incredibly saddened” after Holyrood Park was hit with another wildfire – the third to have hit the beauty spot in the past year.

Fire crews responded to the blaze at around 7pm on Sunday evening. Flames were visible across the city and crews remain on the scene to dampen hotspots.

In a statement, HES acknowledged that people “will be upset to see the impact on Arthur’s Seat and the surrounding landscape, particularly given the increasing frequency of wildfires during periods of hot, dry weather”. The public has been urged to avoid the affected area and follow emergency service advice.

The heritage body extended its thanks to emergency services.

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Historic Environment Scotland’s full statement:

We are incredibly saddened that Holyrood Park has once again been affected by a wildfire, which broke out yesterday evening, on the slope between the Scottish Parliament and St Leonard’s.

We know many people will be upset to see the impact on Arthur’s Seat and the surrounding landscape, particularly given the increasing frequency of wildfires during periods of hot, dry weather. The cause of the fire is not yet known.

We ask everyone to avoid the affected area and follow any advice from emergency services, who are still on site. The fire is currently contained and there have been no reports of any injuries.

The fire overnight from the roof of Summerhall | Keith Douglas

As a precaution, Queen’s Drive and the Galloping Glen remain closed while the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service continues to assess the area. Although there is no active fire visible above ground, there are concerns that hotspots could remain beneath the surface and reignite if temperatures rise or wind conditions change.

We would like to express our heartfelt thanks to the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and Police Scotland who, along with our Rangers, responded so quickly to protect the park.

With hot and dry weather increasing the risk of wildfires, please help us protect Scotland's parks and green spaces by taking extra care:

• Do not light fires or disposable barbecues
• Do not discard cigarettes or matches
• Take all litter home with you, especially glass bottles which can intensify heat and increase fire risk