Bo’ness and Kinneil Railway cancels services amid increased wildfire risk
Last updated 21st Jul 2026
Train services on the Bo’ness and Kinneil Railway have been cancelled today (Tuesday) amid concerns that steam engines could spark lineside fires during the current dry snap.
The West Lothian heritage attraction revealed it took the decision following guidance from Network Rail, which warned of an elevated wildfire risk across the country.
It had explored running a replacement diesel service, but admitted operational constraints and the lack of a suitably qualified driver at short notice made that impossible.
A spokesperson said: "We know this news will be disappointing, and we sincerely apologise for the inconvenience."
They added: "Decisions like this are never taken lightly, but the safety of our passengers, volunteers, staff, and the surrounding countryside will always come first."
Passengers with bookings are being offered the chance to transfer to another date or discuss alternative options with the railway.
The statement added: "We look forward to welcoming you back on board as soon as conditions allow our steam services to resume."
READ MORE: Dramatic images show scale of fire that left Arthur's Seat shrouded in smoke
The cancellation comes as a wildfire warning covering southern and eastern Scotland, as well as the central Highlands, has been extended until Friday.
Meanwhile, the Scottish Greens have described the growing wildfire threat as a national emergency.
Highlands and Islands MSP Ariane Burgess says recent fires in the Cairngorms National Park and on Edinburgh’s Arthur’s Seat show the urgent need for greater climate adaptation measures.