80 Firefighters Battle Blaze at Clerkenwell Restaurant, Residents Evacuated

Around 80 firefighters are tackling a fire at a ground-floor restaurant in Clerkenwell, London. Twelve fire engines are at the scene on Leather Lane, with neighbouring properties evacuated as a precaution.

Brit Brief 16/07/2026 08:01

80 Firefighters Battle Blaze at Clerkenwell Restaurant, Residents Evacuated — 80 Firefighters Battle Blaze at Clerkenwell Restaurant

Around 80 firefighters are battling a blaze at a restaurant in Clerkenwell, central London, forcing residents from their homes. The fire broke out on the ground floor of a three-storey building on Leather Lane, with flames spreading to the ducting.

Firefighters Respond to Early Morning Blaze

Twelve fire engines were dispatched after London Fire Brigade received the call at 5:42 am. Firefighters arrived to find the fire had already spread within the building, prompting the evacuation of residents living above the restaurant. Neighbouring properties were also evacuated as a precautionary measure.

Road Closures and Traffic Disruption

Leather Lane and surrounding streets are closed, causing heavy traffic congestion. Firefighters advise the public to avoid the area. The cause of the fire remains unknown at this stage.