A significant fire at the Grand Burstin Hotel, one of Kent's most recognisable seafront landmarks, forced the evacuation of approximately 280 guests and staff in the early hours of the morning. Kent Fire and Rescue Service dispatched 26 fire engines to the hotel in Folkestone at around 01:05 BST after the blaze erupted in the basement, with flames becoming visible around 2am.
By 08:30, the fire service had reduced its presence to 10 engines, though according to local reporting, the response later included 15 engines and a height vehicle as crews continued their efforts. Firefighters used breathing apparatus and hoses to tackle the basement fire, with crews continuing to dampen down hotspots throughout the morning.
The fire service confirmed that the blaze originated in the basement of the building, though investigators have not yet established the cause. No injuries related to the fire have been recorded.
How are authorities supporting those affected?
Folkestone and Hythe District Council established a welfare centre at Three Hills Sports Park to assist evacuated residents. The council stated it was "supporting all emergency services involved in the response and their efforts to get people to safety", and advised nearby residents to avoid the fire area and keep windows and doors closed as a precaution.
Britannia Hotels Group, the operator of the Grand Burstin, issued a statement confirming it was "taking immediate action to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all guests and team members". The company added that emergency services remained on site and that it was "fully cooperating with the authorities to support those affected and assist with the ongoing response".
What happens next?
Fire crews are expected to remain on scene to complete extinguishing work and ensure the building is fully safe. Investigators will determine the cause of the fire once the incident is brought under control, with an official finding likely to be announced in the coming days.
Key facts
- Approximately 280 people were evacuated from the hotel after the fire broke out at 01:05 BST
- Kent Fire and Rescue Service initially sent 26 fire engines to the scene, later reducing to 10 by mid-morning
- The fire started in the basement; the cause remains under investigation
- No fire-related injuries have been reported
- A welfare centre was set up at Three Hills Sports Park to support evacuated guests and staff
