London's major parks have joined forces to impose new visitor restrictions during the summer heatwave, with a stark warning that "a single spark from a barbecue, cigarette or piece of glass can ignite a fire in seconds." The move comes as the capital experienced its 33rd day above 30C this year, triggering an amber health alert.
Unified safety appeal across London's green spaces
The City of London Corporation, The Royal Parks, The National Trust, Lee Valley Regional Park Authority, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, and Parks for London have collectively issued new guidelines for visitors. These organisations manage some of the capital's most beloved green spaces, including Epping Forest, Hampstead Heath, Hyde Park, Richmond Park, Morden Hall Park, Osterley Park, Walthamstow Marshes, and Gunpowder Park, which collectively welcome tens of millions of visitors annually.
The new rules explicitly prohibit lighting barbecues or open fires, require safe disposal of cigarettes, and urge visitors to take litter home or use provided bins. Additionally, swimming in lakes, ponds, reservoirs, and other open water where swimming is prohibited is banned, with officials citing the dangers of cold water shock and hidden hazards even in hot weather.
Officials stress the severity of the risk
James St John Davis of the City of London Corporation emphasised the vulnerability of green spaces after weeks of hot, dry weather. "It only takes one barbecue, one discarded cigarette, or one decision to enter unsafe water for a day out to end in tragedy or put others at risk," he said. "We're asking everyone to make the safe choice - stay hydrated, keep out of un-lifeguarded water, dispose of litter responsibly, and never light barbecues or open fires."
Darren Share, Director of Parks at The Royal Parks charity, highlighted the escalating wildfire danger. "London's parks are a lifeline for millions during extreme heat, offering shade, space and refuge, but in hot, dry weather, the risk of wildfire escalates," he said. "A single spark from a barbecue, cigarette or piece of glass can ignite a fire in seconds, putting visitors in extreme danger, burning through protected habitats and killing wildlife."
Additional guidance for visitors
Beyond the fire and water safety measures, the organisations are advising visitors to carry plenty of water, stay hydrated, use sun-cream, and seek shade during the hottest part of the day. They also urge respect for park staff, wildlife, and fellow visitors by following local safety advice.
Share added, "Please enjoy a picnic, but leave barbecues at home, fully extinguish cigarettes, and take litter home if bins are full. We know many people will be looking for ways to stay cool in this heat, and we're reminding Londoners to only swim in designated areas during lifeguarded opening times. Please follow the rules and help ensure a day in the park does not end in tragedy."
Official weather and health guidance
For the latest weather warnings and heat health advice, visitors are directed to follow guidance issued by the Met Office and the UK Health Security Agency before travelling. The amber health alert underscores the seriousness of the ongoing heatwave, which has seen temperatures exceed 30C on 33 separate occasions this year, a record number.
