Protecting the Cairngorms Together

Grant Moir, Chief Executive at the Cairngorms National Park Authority

The Cairngorms is a truly special place. I may be a little biased, but as the UK’s largest national park, it is home to spectacular landscapes, thriving communities, around a quarter of the UK’s rare and endangered species and almost half of Scotland’s remaining ancient pinewoods. Every year, more than two million people come here to walk, cycle, paddle, picnic and enjoy everything that makes the National Park such a remarkable destination. 

We want visitors to continue enjoying these experiences for generations to come. Spending time outdoors is good for our wellbeing, and tourism plays a vital role in supporting local businesses and communities across the National Park. At the same time, we all have a responsibility to help care for this special place.

That is why I’d like to ask for your support with an important change that is now in place across the Cairngorms National Park.

From 1 April to 30 September each year, campfires, open fires and barbecues are not permitted within the Cairngorms National Park under a new seasonal fire byelaw. The byelaw was approved by the Scottish Government last year and has been introduced to reduce the growing risk of wildfires during increasingly warm, dry spring and summer months. 

Even a small disposable barbecue or campfire that appears to be extinguished can remain hot enough to ignite surrounding ground. When there is so much to lose, we simply cannot take that risk.

Our countryside rangers continue to play a crucial role in welcoming visitors, sharing advice and helping people enjoy the National Park safely. The fire byelaw gives rangers the ability to issue a £500 fixed penalty notice, but enforcement will always be a last resort. 

This summer, we have a record number of rangers on patrol, including additional weekend staff and a new full-time ranger based in the Angus Glens. Rangers are also being trained to use specialist thermal drones, helping them detect hidden heat sources and respond more quickly to potential incidents. Alongside this, we are working closely with Police Scotland, the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and local partners to raise awareness and support compliance with the new rules. 

The encouraging news is that residents, businesses, estates and community groups across the National Park have already been helping to spread the message. Their support has been invaluable and I would like to thank everyone who has played a part.

The message is straightforward: Protect our National Park. No flame, no spark.

If you are planning a trip to the Cairngorms this summer, please do not light fires or use barbecues anywhere in the National Park between 1 April and 30 September. Follow advice from rangers and local signage, and if you see a fire, report it immediately by calling 999.

By making these small changes, we can all help protect the landscapes, wildlife and communities that make the Cairngorms such a special place. Thank you for your support, and I hope you enjoy a wonderful visit to the National Park this summer.

For more information – including answers to some frequently asked questions – please go to cairngorms.co.uk/fires.