On Sunday 10 August 2025 a gorse wildfire broke out on Arthur’s Seat, an extinct volcano rising above Edinburgh’s Holyrood Park.
The blaze started around 4:05pm and quickly spread through dry vegetation, sending smoke plumes into the air, visible across the Scottish capital. Firefighters responded immediately, while police and fire officials urged people to stay away to allow crews space to work safely.
Fire crews, aided by park rangers and a helicopter (for water drops), battled the flames through the night and into Monday morning.
“Operations control mobilised four fire appliances and specialist resources to the area where firefighters are working to extinguish a fire affecting a large area of gorse,” said a Scottish Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson.
Despite the challenging terrain and strong winds fanning the fire, there have been no reported casualties.
The gorse fire comes amid a record-breaking wildfire season in Scotland and across the UK in 2025, following an exceptionally dry spring.
In pictures: Arthur’s Seat fire
Top image: Arthur's Seat wildfire. Credit: Getty
More stories from around the UK
- Lynx reintroduction in Northumberland backed by 72% of locals
- There's a part of England that's actually American – and it's right on the banks of the River Thames
- Massive white storks could soon return to London. Here's how
- Monumental rise in one of Britain's weirdest and most endearing tiny sea creatures
