Grand Burstin Hotel fire evacuates 280 in Folkestone overnight

A major fire broke out at the Grand Burstin Hotel in Folkestone, Kent, early on Saturday morning, prompting the evacuation of approximately 280 people. Kent Fire and Rescue Service received the call at around 01:05 BST and deployed 26 fire engines and a height vehicle to the seafront hotel. The blaze is believed to have originated in the basement of the building, though the cause remains unknown at this stage.

Emergency response was swift and coordinated. By 08:30 BST, 10 fire engines remained on-site, with crews wearing breathing apparatus working to extinguish remaining hotspots and dampen down the fire. Eyewitness accounts describe grey smoke turning black as people evacuated, with some reporting sounds resembling explosions, potentially from vehicles in the underground car park. One guest evacuated from the fourth floor reported the alarm sounded around 01:15–01:20 BST.

Local authorities established a welfare centre at Three Hills Sports Park to support evacuees. Folkestone and Hythe District Council advised nearby residents to close windows and doors, avoid the area, and keep roads clear for emergency vehicles. The Harbour Inn pub, located opposite the hotel, opened at approximately 02:00 to provide shelter and warmth while paramedics treated people for smoke inhalation, minor injuries including sprained legs, cuts and bruises. The Salvation Army provided welfare support to fire crews.

No fire-related injuries have been reported. Kent Police were called at around 01:20 BST and assisted with traffic control and access management. Britannia Hotels Group, which operates the Grand Burstin, stated it was "taking immediate action to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all guests and team members" and pledged full cooperation with authorities. Road closures remained in place as emergency services continued operations at the scene.