Fire at Somerset House: Over 100 Firefighters Battle Blaze in Central London

By Ivan PetrenkoAug 17, 2024 21:35 PMNews
Share:
Historic Somerset House facade under a clear sky
Somerset House, a cultural and historic landmark, faces restoration after fire. Source: unsplash

Today, a major fire broke out at Somerset House, a historic building in central London. Massive plumes of smoke rose above the rooftops, attracting the attention of both locals and tourists. Around 125 firefighters were quickly dispatched to the scene to tackle the blaze.

Reports indicate that the fire started in a small section of the building, but thanks to the prompt actions of emergency services, it was quickly contained. Representatives of Somerset House assured that all staff and visitors are safe and that the fire did not spread to other parts of the complex.

Somerset House, located on The Strand, is an 18th-century historic building that attracts tourists with its architectural significance and cultural events. The building hosts both temporary and permanent exhibitions, as well as cultural events such as concerts and film festivals. Every year, a winter ice rink is also set up here, popular among both locals and visitors to London.

For tourists visiting London, Somerset House is of interest not only as a cultural center but also as an important historical landmark. Its convenient location in the city center, close to iconic sites like Covent Garden and Trafalgar Square, makes it easily accessible for visitors.

At present, the cause of the fire is under investigation, and Somerset House staff have already begun assessing the damage and planning restoration work. It is important to note that despite the incident, the building remains a significant part of London's cultural heritage, and steps will be taken to preserve it in the near future.

Top Articles
Top 10 reasons for flight cancelation by airlines: a clear algorithm of actions to get compensation

Top 10 reasons for flight cancelation by airlines: a clear algorithm of actions to get compensation

Oct 16, 2025 16:22 PM
Smartphone with eSIM logo surrounded by travel essentials like flowers, map, camera, and sunglasses

Where to Buy eSIM at the Best Price: A Full Review of Tariffs and Options

Aug 8, 2025 10:54 AM

No More SIM Swaps: The eSIM Travel Solution You’ll Actually Use

Aug 4, 2025 16:51 PM

Not Just a Suitcase: My Personal Checklist for Smart Travelers in 2025

Mar 3, 2025 18:00 PM
More News
Protester speaking into a megaphone

Gatwick Strike Threat Eases as Walkouts Are Suspended

Sep 14, 2026 22:48 PM
Rail workers renewing railway track

Three Weekends of Rail Disruption Hit Newcastle–Scotland Trains

Sep 14, 2026 22:35 PM

Hyatt’s First UK JdV Hotel Is Coming to Oxfordshire

Sep 12, 2026 00:22 AM

Transavia’s Summer 2027 Shake-Up Brings Seven Route Changes

Sep 12, 2026 00:19 AM
Ryanair aircraft climbing through cloudy sky

Ryanair Boss Challenges ‘Sucked Out’ Window Claim

Sep 12, 2026 00:06 AM
Cosy short-term rental with fireplace

Airbnb Rentals Could Face New Limits in EU Hotspots

Sep 11, 2026 23:53 PM
Ryanair aircraft in flight

Ryanair Names Five Sweden Routes for Winter

Sep 11, 2026 23:07 PM
Child meeting Father Christmas

Missed LaplandUK Tickets? Final 2026 Release Lands Tomorrow

Sep 10, 2026 23:24 PM
Danube River and Budapest Parliament

Riviera Opens 2028 River Cruises — Here’s What’s Included

Sep 10, 2026 23:11 PM

Stockholm Gets More Direct Cairo Flights This Winter

Sep 10, 2026 23:08 PM

Dubai Flights Return from Seven European Cities This Winter

Sep 10, 2026 22:55 PM
Protester speaking into a megaphone

Gatwick Strike Could Disrupt Flights for Nine Days

Sep 10, 2026 22:42 PM
Exterior of Shannon Airport terminal in Ireland

Flying via Shannon This Weekend? Expect Traffic and ID Checks

Sep 9, 2026 21:39 PM
Stormtroopers from Star Wars standing in formation

Star Wars Fans Get a New George Lucas Museum

Sep 9, 2026 21:26 PM
Traditional Bavarian dancers performing inside Munich Airport

Munich Airport Starts Oktoberfest Events Before the Tents Open

Sep 9, 2026 21:13 PM

Athens Becomes Easier to Reach From Rotterdam

Sep 9, 2026 21:07 PM

Visitors Could Face £1-a-Night Levy in York and North Yorkshire

Sep 9, 2026 20:54 PM
La Compagnie Airbus A321neo aircraft on the apron

New York Returns to Düsseldorf With All-Business Flights

Sep 8, 2026 23:01 PM
Infinity pool overlooking Vathy Bay

Samos Gets a New Seafront Hotel With a 13+ Rule

Sep 7, 2026 22:48 PM
Volcanic ash plume rising from a volcano

Krakatau Ash Keeps Seven Indonesian Airports Closed

Sep 7, 2026 22:35 PM
Airport arrivals and departures signs

Spain Extends Border Checks for Italy Arrivals

Sep 7, 2026 22:22 PM
West Highland Line railway beside the coast

Scotland’s West Highland Line Faces Nine-Day Closure

Sep 6, 2026 20:09 PM

A New 120-Mile Trail Is About to Open Across Cumbria

Sep 6, 2026 19:56 PM

Europe Border Checks Could Get Slower After 6 September

Sep 5, 2026 09:53 AM
Málaga city centre and cathedral

Ryanair Keeps Košice–Málaga Flying Through Winter

Sep 5, 2026 09:47 AM
Frecciarossa high-speed train at a station

Frecciarossa Trains Could Link Italy and Munich in 2027

Sep 5, 2026 09:34 AM