Blaze breaks out on Arthur’s Seat as Edinburgh festival season peaks

Anabelle Colaco
13 Aug 2025, 07:18 GMT+10

A large fire broke out on August 10 on Arthur’s Seat, the extinct volcano that towers over Edinburgh, charring broad areas of the popular walking spot and sending plumes of smoke visible for miles
The blaze spread quickly across the slopes of the landmark, which forms the highest point of Holyrood Park at about 250 metres above sea level
Located near the Scottish Parliament and at the end of the city’s famous Royal Mile, Arthur’s Seat is a favourite with both locals and tourists for its panoramic views of the capital

EDINBURGH, U.K.: A large fire broke out on August 10 on Arthur's Seat, the extinct volcano that towers over Edinburgh, charring broad areas of the popular walking spot and sending plumes of smoke visible for miles.

The blaze spread quickly across the slopes of the landmark, which forms the highest point of Holyrood Park at about 250 metres above sea level. Located near the Scottish Parliament and at the end of the city's famous Royal Mile, Arthur's Seat is a favourite with both locals and tourists for its panoramic views of the capital.

"Crews are in attendance at a fire in the open at Arthur's Seat, Holyrood Park, Edinburgh," the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service said on X. Police urged drivers and pedestrians to steer clear of the area while emergency services worked to contain the flames.

The incident comes at the height of Edinburgh's tourist season. August draws large crowds for the Edinburgh International Festival, the Fringe comedy festival, and other events, this year also featuring reunion tour dates for the rock band Oasis.

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