Fire crews battle blaze at Holme Fen Nature Reserve in Huntingdonshire
Firefighters continue efforts to extinguish deep-seated peat fire
Last updated 10th Aug 2026
Firefighters have been working tirelessly to contain a large blaze at Holme Fen Nature Reserve in Huntingdonshire.
The fire, which was first reported at 10.24am on Saturday, 8th August, involves hedges and undergrowth and is deeply seated in peat, adding to the difficulty of extinguishing it.
Crews from across the region, including Dogsthorpe, Stanground, Whittlesey, Huntingdon, and other areas, have been deployed to the scene, along with specialist vehicles to aid the firefighting efforts.
Despite their progress, the fire remains troublesome due to its location in peat. Firefighters are checking for hotspots and working to dampen the area to prevent further spread.
As of the latest update, road closures are in place near the scene, comprising the junction of Hod Fen Drove and Holme Lode, all of Holme Lode, and the junction of Long Drove/B660 and New Long Drove. The public is advised to avoid these routes and the nature reserve for safety reasons.
The cause of the fire has not yet been determined, but efforts to tackle it continue with support from neighbouring services and specialist firefighting equipment.
The community has been generous with offers of support, including water, though current resources at the scene remain sufficient.
Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service has reiterated their thanks for the community’s patience as they work in arduous conditions to bring the fire under control.