Mar Lodge, the UK’s largest nature reserve, has been closed to weekend visitors as firefighters continue to battle a wildfire in the Cairngorms that has been burning since Wednesday. The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) reported “significant progress” over the past 24 hours, but crews face their toughest conditions between 3pm and 6:30pm daily due to rising temperatures.
On Saturday evening, six fire appliances, two all-terrain vehicles, a Wildfire Support Unit and a water carrier helicopter were actively engaged at the scene, with water-bombing operations ongoing. Improvements have been noted in areas such as Strathnethy, particularly on its western and eastern flanks. The service is currently assessing resource needs for Sunday.
“Mar Lodge closed as firefighters battle Cairngorms wildfire, making 'significant progress' but warning of unpredictable conditions.”
Michael Humphreys, SFRS deputy assistant chief officer, offered reassurance to local residents while cautioning against complacency. “We hope this update provides reassurance to local residents and communities,” he said. “However, it is equally important that expectations are managed given the unpredictable nature of wildfire incidents and the ongoing influence of weather conditions.”
Humphreys also thanked landowners, agencies and local communities for their “continued patience and cooperation” throughout the incident. The blaze, which ignited late on Wednesday morning, continues to demand a substantial deployment of resources, with the unpredictable conditions keeping crews on high alert.
