Historic West Essex Golf Club Clubhouse Destroyed by Devastating Fire

Catastrophic Fire Strikes Cherished London Golf Venue

A catastrophic fire has destroyed the historic clubhouse at West Essex Golf Club in Chingford, east London, marking a devastating loss for the local golfing community. The fire broke out on 5 January 2026, and required the efforts of over 60 firefighters to bring it under control. The blaze, which began early on Monday afternoon, has left members and residents shocked as the beloved 125-year-old venue faces an uncertain future.

Major Emergency Response

The Essex County Fire and Rescue Service received an emergency call around 14:20 GMT. A combined team of around 60 firefighters from the Essex Fire & Rescue Service, London Fire Brigade, and Hertfordshire Fire & Rescue Service responded to contain the fire. Essex County Fire & Rescue service stated West Essex Golf Club in Chingford has seen the majority of its two-storey clubhouse affected by the blaze. Local residents observed thick, black smoke rising from the site, visible from miles away on a particularly chilly day in England.

No Casualties Reported

Amidst the destruction, there was relief that all individuals were safely accounted for. The fire service and a West Essex GC member have confirmed to Golf Monthly that everyone was accounted for and no one was injured, with all staff safe outside of the building. The fire service later said an investigation will be carried out, when safe to do so, to find the cause of the fire.

A Historic Loss for the Golfing Community

West Essex Golf Club marked its 125th anniversary in 2025. West Essex Golf Club is one of England’s historic courses designed by James Braid and opened in 1900. The club has served as a cherished landmark for generations of golfers, hosting junior, amateur and regional competitions throughout its history.

The West Essex Golf Club stands as a cherished landmark and its loss has caused considerable upset among its members and the wider community. As the club faces the enormous challenge of rebuilding, the focus now shifts to supporting members and planning the restoration of this treasured golfing institution that has been an integral part of the London golf scene for more than a century.