Camden suspends barbecues in its parks as London wildfire risk reaches extreme level
Londoners looking to enjoy a summer barbecue in one of the capital’s parks will have fewer options after Camden Council announced it is ending this year’s barbecue season following an increase in wildfire risk.
The move affects Cantelowes Gardens, Russell Square, and Lincoln’s Inn Fields, which had remained among the last public parks in London where barbecues were still permitted. Camden said the decision follows the London Fire Brigade’s recent upgrade of the capital’s wildfire risk from “elevated” to “extreme”.
The fire service has urged people to avoid using disposable barbecues, warning that prolonged hot and dry weather has left grassland vulnerable to fires that can spread rapidly. Officials say many wildfires are caused by human activity and can threaten homes, wildlife, and public spaces.
Camden had become the final London borough to continue allowing barbecues in selected parks after similar facilities were removed elsewhere across the capital over recent years. While the council has described the move as closing this year’s barbecue season, it has not confirmed whether the restrictions will continue beyond the current period of heightened fire risk.
The decision further reduces the number of places where outdoor cooking is allowed. People wishing to cook outdoors are now largely limited to designated facilities, including electric hotplates at Paradise Park in Islington and Burgess Park in Southwark, alongside two purpose-built barbecue stands at Roundshaw Park in Sutton.
Camden has previously faced pressure over barbecues in its parks. Last summer, the council temporarily suspended their use at Waterlow Park after large gatherings, outdoor parties, and widespread barbecue use created management and safety concerns.
The latest restrictions come after several recent fires across London. Over the past four days, firefighters have responded to two separate trackside wildfires near Tube stations in Walthamstow and Stratford, highlighting concerns about how quickly vegetation can ignite during periods of prolonged heat.
With warm weather continuing, authorities are encouraging residents to follow fire safety advice and avoid activities that could accidentally spark grass fires while visiting parks and open spaces.
For more London news, environmental updates, and public safety information, visit EyeonLondon.
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