Chiltern Firehouse Fire: Evacuation and Response at Celebrity Hotspot
A significant blaze at London's Chiltern Firehouse leads to the evacuation of approximately 100 guests as firefighting efforts continue.
On February 14, 2025, a fire erupted at the Chiltern Firehouse, a luxury hotel and restaurant located on Chiltern Street in Marylebone, London, resulting in the evacuation of around 100 individuals.
The incident began shortly before 3 PM local time, prompting a swift emergency response from the London Fire Brigade (LFB).
The LFB dispatched approximately 125 firefighters and deployed 25 fire engines to manage the situation, which involved flames spreading from the ground floor to the roof of the four-storey structure.
Firefighters reported that the fire started in the ducting system, which connects the ground floor to the roof, and has been particularly challenging to contain due to the building's historic architecture.
Eyewitness accounts indicated that smoke and flames were visible from a distance, with reports confirming that the hotel's roof was significantly alight.
Some observers noted that the fire might have originated in the kitchen area.
By 9:30 PM, the fire was declared fully contained, although LFB crews remained on-site to manage potential hotspots throughout the night.
In a statement, André Balazs, the hotel's owner, confirmed that there were no reported injuries among guests or staff and expressed gratitude for the emergency response.
"We are grateful to confirm that no one was hurt, and our guests and staff safely evacuated.
The fire has now been fully contained," Balazs said, emphasizing the importance of the building to both the community and its historical significance.
The Metropolitan Police were also on-site to assist with road closures in the area, ensuring safety for emergency personnel and the public.
The fire brigade reported that they had received initial calls regarding the blaze at 2:52 PM and that the fire was under control approximately six hours later.
The Chiltern Firehouse, opened in 2014, is situated in a historic Victorian fire station established in 1889. It is known for its upscale dining and is frequented by numerous celebrities.
High-profile figures including Brad Pitt, Tom Cruise, and Lady Gaga have visited the venue, making it an exclusive social hub in London.
Due to the extent of the damage and the nature of the fire, it is anticipated that significant refurbishment may be necessary before the hotel can reopen.
As of the latest updates, the Chiltern Firehouse remains closed until further notice while investigations are conducted to determine the cause of the fire.