A historic Victorian mill, known for its appearances in popular television series "Peaky Blinders" and "Downton Abbey," was engulfed in a major fire Saturday evening, marking the fifth such incident at the Dalton Mills site in Keighley, West Yorkshire, within five years.
Firefighters were called to the sprawling Grade II-listed former textile complex around 8 p.m. on Saturday. The severity of the blaze necessitated the evacuation of nearby residents, with local authority emergency planners on-site to provide support. The cause of the fire has not yet been officially determined, but previous incidents at the site have been attributed to arson.
Renewed Concerns Over Site Security
The latest fire has intensified anger and frustration regarding the condition and security of the long-derelict property. Robbie Moore, the Member of Parliament for Keighley and Ilkley, expressed his dismay, stating that the ongoing situation "simply cannot continue." Moore has been an advocate for local authorities to better secure the site for years.
Dalton Mills, originally constructed between 1866 and 1877 for worsted cloth manufacturing, is recognized for its elaborate architecture, chimney, ornate ironwork, and historical significance to the Yorkshire textile industry. At its peak, the mill employed up to 2,000 workers.
A Troubled History of Fires
Despite its architectural and industrial importance, the mill has suffered repeated damage from fires. A significant blaze in 2011 was confirmed as arson. In March 2022, another large fire caused extensive damage to the interior, floors, and roof. Further incidents occurred in July 2025, also treated as arson, and in February of the current year, when firefighters responded to two deliberately started blazes within a six-day period.
The repeated fires have fueled concerns about the future of the historic complex. Efforts to find a new owner and redevelop the site have faced complications, including ownership issues. The Crown Estate took possession of the property through the legal principle of escheat after the previous owner ceased to hold it, leaving the vacant building vulnerable to further incidents and trespass.
The mill's distinctive industrial setting has made it a popular filming location, contributing to its cultural recognition beyond its industrial past. Historic England has noted its historic character as a key factor in its use for film and television productions.