Two arrested over Folkestone hotel fire
Hundreds of people were evacuated following a fire at the Grand Burstin Hotel at the weekend
Last updated 21st Sep 2026
Two arrests have been made after hundreds of people were evacuated following a fire at a hotel in Folkestone.
Emergency services were called to the Grand Burstin Hotel in The Harbour in the Kent town just after 1am on Saturday.
Some 280 people were moved from the hotel at the time and 90 people were relocated from nearby Pavilion Court in Marine Terrace on Saturday evening over safety inspectors’ concerns, according to Folkestone and Hythe District Council.
On Monday, Kent Police said a 38-year-old man and a 21-year-old woman, both from the local area, were arrested in connection to the incident on Sunday and have since been released as inquiries continue.
A spokesman added: “Local road closures remain in place for investigation work and police continue to work closely with partner agencies who are supporting those affected by the evacuation.”
At the height of the blaze, 26 fire engines were at the scene, Kent Fire and Rescue Service had said.
It is thought the fire started in the basement of the seafront hotel.
Kent Police previously said officers believe the fire may have been started deliberately.
No injuries relating to the fire have been reported.
The hotel overlooks Folkestone’s harbour and has 550 rooms, according to the Britannia Hotels website.