According to the brigade's statement, crews are working to extinguish flames in a section of the building’s roof, utilizing two of their 32-meter (nearly 105-foot) ladders.
The cause of the fire remains unknown, and Somerset House has been closed to the public while the fire is being addressed.
Originally constructed in the 1500s and later rebuilt in the 1700s, Somerset House has a storied history. Notably, the Treaty of London, which ended the 19-year Anglo-Spanish War, was signed there in 1604.
Today, Somerset House hosts various creative events and exhibitions. On Saturday, the venue was scheduled to feature a dance battle in its open-air courtyard, including a full day of dance showcases, workshops, live DJs, and an outdoor party culminating in a head-to-head dance competition representing different parts of London.
In a statement on its website, Somerset House confirmed that "all staff and the public are safe and the site is closed." They added, "The London Fire Brigade arrived swiftly, and we are working closely with them to manage and control the fire."
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