National Trust warns of wildfire risk at Hadrian’s Wall after recent grass fires

The organisation is urging visitors to leave portable barbecues at home and refrain from lighting campfires in the countryside, after recent grass fires required a fire service response.

Fire crews were called after two blazes, believed to have been sparked by outdoor cooking equipment, spread quickly through tinder-dry vegetation.

Thanks to swift action by the fire brigade, the fires were contained, but posed a serious risk to people, wildlife, and the internationally significant archaeology and landscape.

Other fires were caught quickly and extinguished by local farmers.

Hadrian’s Wall and its surrounding countryside in the Tyne Valley are exceptionally vulnerable in dry conditions.

Even small embers or residual heat from disposable or portable BBQs can ignite parched grass, peat, or heather, causing wildfires that are difficult to control and can smoulder underground for days.

Andrew Poad, general manager for the Hadrian’s Wall Country portfolio at the National Trust, said: “The archaeology, wildlife, and sweeping open landscapes attract hundreds of thousands of visitors each year and we want people to enjoy visiting these places for generations to come.

“However, hotter, drier conditions are making our countryside increasingly vulnerable to fire, and climate change is only intensifying that risk.

“Nearly all countryside fires are unfortunately caused by human activity, whether through litter, discarded cigarettes or BBQs, so we all have a responsibility to act with care.

“Places like Hadrian’s Wall and the Tyne Valley are internationally important landscapes, rich in wildlife, heritage and natural beauty, and we need everyone’s help to protect them for future generations.”

The National Trust ask for the public’s help in observing no-fire restrictions, particularly during hot, dry conditions when the risk of countryside fire is significantly increased.

The Trust is working with local partners to monitor fire risk levels and adapt access arrangements if conditions worsen.

They have also put up more signage to remind those visiting the area to help protect the precious landscape.

Alongside not bringing disposable or portable BBQs, fire pits or stoves, visitors are urged to avoid lighting campfires or burning any materials. to take litter home, fully extinguish cigarettes, keep to marked paths with dogs on leads, and call 999 if they spot a fire.