Archive · 2 Aug 2026
National Trust Appeals for Help After Heartbreaking Dunwich Heath Fire
On July 29, a big fire started on Dunwich Heath in Suffolk, England.
It burned 371 acres of land and killed many animals like birds and lizards.
The fire began near a bird‑watching site owned by the RSPB and spread into the National Trust land.
The National Trust, a charity that protects nature, asked people to give money to help rebuild the area.
They need money to grow new plants, bring back animals, and make the land safer from future fires.
Firefighters fought the blaze for days and moved more than 200 people out of their homes.
No one was hurt, but the fire left the land very scarred.
Scientists say it could take up to 25 years for the plants and animals to return.
The fire shows how climate change and dry weather can make wildfires worse.
Fire destroyed 371 acres of Dunwich Heath, Suffolk, killing wildlife.
The blaze began at 5:30pm on July 29, spreading from the RSPB Minsmere site.
National Trust launched an emergency appeal, urging public donations for restoration.
Over 100 firefighters deployed; no injuries reported, 200 caravans evacuated.
Habitat recovery could take up to 25 years, threatening long‑term wildlife.
- Who
- Hilary McGrady, director general of the National Trust, and the National Trust organization
- What
- An emergency appeal after a wildfire destroyed Dunwich Heath
- When
- July 29, 2024
- Where
- Dunwich Heath, Suffolk, England
- Why
- The fire was caused by dry conditions and possibly carelessness, highlighting climate change risks
- Location
- Dunwich Heath, Suffolk, England
- Date of fire
- July 29, 2024
- Area burned
- 371 acres
- Wildlife affected
- Dartford warblers, nightjars, stonechats, adders, lizards, slow worms
- Appeal
- National Trust emergency appeal for restoration
- Response
- 100+ firefighters, 200 caravans evacuated, no injuries