Huge fire breaks out at historic golf club

A fire broke out in London this afternoon, engulfing an iconic 19th-century golf club, with smoke spreading for miles.

The historic West Essex Golf Club building was engulfed in flames and firefighters were alerted and called to the area near Chingford, east London, at 2.40pm on Monday.

There are currently six fire crews at the scene working to extinguish the flames as the situation continues and more details emerge.

In a statement, Essex County Fire and Rescue Service said: “When the first fire crews arrived they confirmed everyone was in clear condition and no one was injured. “They requested additional fire trucks for support.

Authorities announced that the fire affected the entire two-storey building, whose height and depth was measured to be approximately 25m x 15m.

There are a total of 60 firefighters at the scene to fight the fire. Essex firefighters were supported by four nearby fire engines from London Fire Brigade as well as Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service.

The spokesman added: “Fire officials at the scene reported that fire crews were making good progress in combating the large blaze. Fire crews are working hard to prevent the fire from spreading to the rear of the building.”

The fire department stated that an investigation will be carried out if it is safe to do so to find the cause of the fire.

The historic golf club celebrated its 125th anniversary in 2025 after being founded in 1900. Designed by Scottish golfer James Braid, the club offers views of the London skyline with its 270-degree elevated view.