Impact of Wildfire on Tourism in North York Moors National Park, England: A Struggle for Local Businesses

Published on August 31, 2025

The North York Moors National Park, a popular spot for tourists, is experiencing a major setback due to a wildfire that is still affecting the area. For weeks, businesses that rely on tourism have been impacted by the fire that began on Langdale Moor on August 11. The fire spread in the weeks after, leading to road closures, detours, and evacuations, which harmed local trade. While the fire service has contained the blaze, the effects on the local tourism economy continue to be felt.

Fire’s Beginnings and Spread

The wildfire, which began in mid-August, quickly gained momentum due to dry conditions. By the end of the first week, the fire had expanded beyond the initial site on Langdale Moor. As the flames spread, authorities were forced to implement road closures and diversions, including parts of the popular Coast to Coast walking route. Additionally, the evacuation of campsites and caravan parks was necessary for safety reasons. These disruptions have significantly impacted the local economy, especially during peak tourist season when footfall is at its highest.

Local Businesses Face Financial Strain

The effect of the fire has been most severe on small businesses in the region, particularly in towns like Scarborough, Whitby, and Robin Hood’s Bay. Many shops and businesses, especially those dependent on visitors, have reported a noticeable drop in trade. For some, it has led to temporary closures, while others are struggling to cope with the challenges posed by the ongoing crisis. Despite being located outside the directly affected areas, businesses have felt the ripple effect as visitors steer clear of the national park due to safety concerns or the less-than-ideal environment created by the smoke and fire hazards.

In Whitby, some shops chose to close temporarily, citing concerns about attracting people to the area during such uncertain times. Visitors are not just drawn to the coastal towns for their famous fish and chips but also for the outdoor adventures that the moors offer. Walking, cycling, and hiking on the moors are integral parts of the area’s tourism draw, and the ongoing wildfire has made these activities largely inaccessible, leaving businesses in a difficult position.

While some tourist spots remained open, others reported cancellations and a significant decrease in bookings. Several accommodation providers, including holiday cottages and hotels in Robin Hood’s Bay, saw a decline in guests as people opted to cancel their trips. The unpredictable nature of the fire meant that many potential visitors preferred to stay away from the region altogether.

The Difficulty of Quantifying the Damage

It is difficult to estimate the total financial impact of the wildfire on businesses at this time, but the ongoing disruptions are expected to cause a sharp decline in revenue by the end of the tourist season. Some business owners in the area have expressed concern that this could lead to a “dip in takings”, which may take a toll on the local economy for months to come. The long-term financial consequences of the wildfire could be felt even after the fire itself has been extinguished, as tourists and visitors might hesitate to return to the area due to the negative publicity associated with the disaster.

Decreased Footfall in Robin Hood’s Bay and Scarborough

In towns like Robin Hood’s Bay, the fire has caused significant changes in both footfall and local traffic. The A171 road, which connects Robin Hood’s Bay to nearby towns like Scarborough and Whitby, was temporarily closed due to the fire. The closure led to fewer visitors reaching the bay, contributing to a drop in trade for local businesses that depend on tourists arriving by road. One hotel in the area reported a drop in guest numbers, with many choosing to either cancel their stays or defer their visits due to the uncertainty caused by the fire.

Many of the staff working in these businesses also faced difficulties, as some were unable to travel to work due to road closures. This added another layer of disruption to already struggling businesses. In some instances, local business owners tried to adapt by offering guests more flexible booking options or by informing them of the ongoing situation so they could make an informed decision about their stay. Despite these efforts, cancellations were inevitable, and businesses continued to feel the strain.

Business Owners’ Resilience Amid Crisis

Despite these challenges, several local businesses have shown resilience, encouraging potential visitors to continue making their way to the area. While some accommodations and shops had to temporarily close, many have tried to keep their operations running as normally as possible. The tourism industry in the area is built on the strength of local businesses, and these businesses are doing what they can to maintain customer loyalty in the face of adversity. Local authorities and businesses alike have emphasised that the region remains “open for business”, with safety precautions in place for visitors.

The North York Moors National Park Authority, although advising against travel to certain affected areas, has reiterated that the wider park remains accessible to visitors. The fire service has been commended for containing the blaze, and officials have continued to encourage people to visit areas that are safe, despite the disruptions caused by the wildfire. However, businesses continue to feel the pressure as the tourism season begins to wind down.

The Long-Term Outlook

While the immediate effects of the wildfire are clear, the long-term impact on the tourism industry in North York Moors is harder to predict. With road closures, diversions, and widespread evacuations now behind them, businesses in the region hope to recover in the months following the fire’s containment. However, many fear that the damage caused to the area’s reputation could have lasting consequences. Tourists may be hesitant to visit the moors in the future, given the wildfires’ disruption and the uncertainty it brings.

Conclusion

The wildfire in North York Moors National Park has created serious challenges for businesses in the area. Although the fire itself is now under control, the disruptions to local trade, especially during the busy tourist season, will likely be felt for months. Still, many business owners hold onto hope that tourism will eventually bounce back as they work hard to respond to the difficulties caused by this disaster.

For now, visitors are encouraged to explore the many attractions in the area, but they should prioritise safety and avoid places that were affected. Local businesses have shown strong resilience. Their efforts to maintain a welcoming atmosphere for tourists will be vital for the region’s recovery.

[Image Source: National Parks Official Website]