Fire crews to remain on scene of Arthur's Seat blaze for 'foreseeable'

Fire crews are likely to be on the scene of a blaze at Arthur’s Seat in Edinburgh for the foreseeable.

Four appliances were mobilised to the hillside after the alarm was raised at around 4pm on Sunday. The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service area commander has said it is likely the blaze was caused by a person.

Specialist resources are being used as the Fire Service works to extinguish the blaze, which is affecting a large area of gorse.

Two fire engines remain on the scene, with crews likely to be in attendance for the foreseeable future.

Arthur's Seat fire. — Arthur’s Seat fire. TikTok/Geordie273

Scottish Fire and Rescue Service group commander Niall MacLennan said: “While we have no indication of the cause of the fire, the majority of fires of this nature are started by human behaviour.

“Responsible human behaviour can significantly lower the chance of a fire starting.

“It’s vital to follow all safety advice when outdoors and to make sure you are familiar with the Scottish Outdoor Access Code at all times.”

There were no reports of any casualties.

Images of Arthur’s Seat show large plumes of white smoke billowing into the sky, with patches of fire visible in several spots on the hill face.

The extinct volcano that overlooks Edinburgh is popular with tourists and hillwalkers and makes up most of Holyrood Park.

Historic Environment Scotland (HES) confirmed the High Road and the pavement will be closed to all users until at least Friday.

A spokesperson said: “Our Ranger Service has been assisting Scottish Fire and Rescue with an ongoing incident in Holyrood Park.

“Road closures were in place in Holyrood Park overnight to support the work of the emergency services.

“Access has now been reinstated with the exception of the High Road, where the road and pavement will be closed to all users until at least Friday, August 15.

“We would also ask visitors to continue to follow guidance from the emergency services and avoid the south side of Arthur’s Seat while the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service continue their work.”