A fire that severely damaged a renowned luxury hotel in London, popular among celebrities, was caused by burning wood falling from a pizza oven, according to London Fire Brigade.

The incident occurred at The Chiltern Firehouse in Marylebone on 14 February. The hotel, a former fire station dating back to the 1880s, had been set to host a post-BAFTA Film Awards party on the evening of the fire.

Flames spread rapidly through the four-storey building via ducting, affecting multiple levels. The fire service reported that parts of the ground floor and half of the second floor were damaged, while the third floor and roof were completely destroyed.

London Fire Brigade confirmed that the fire started accidentally "by burning wood falling from a pizza oven and igniting the void between the basement and ground floor."

Assistant Commissioner Paul McCourt commended the firefighters' efforts, stating:
"Crews worked incredibly hard for over eight hours in arduous conditions. Presented with a complex fire in a historically significant building, formerly Manchester Square Fire Station, firefighters successfully contained the fire, preventing it from spreading to neighbouring properties."

Approximately 100 people were safely evacuated, and no injuries were reported. The fire required a significant emergency response, with over 120 firefighters and 20 fire engines deployed to tackle the fire.

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