This morning news started filtering through social media that one of Cape Towns oldest pub, Firemans Arms, burnt down last night.

Fireman’s Arms Latest Statement

As you’re aware that we had a fire early this morning, only the beer garden was affected. The Pub and Restaurant are okay. We will be closed for cleaning today and the Historical Pub will trade as per normal as of tomorrow.

We can now confirm earlier reports that only the beer garden burnt down, not the historic part. Witnesses reported the fire in full blaze at around 2:30 am. No cause for the fire has yet been established, but an investigation is already underway.

Established in 1864, Fireman’s Arms is one of the oldest landmark pubs in Cape Town. The pub has undergone renovations and improvements over the years while keeping the original building and ambience.

City of Cape Town Fire and Rescue Services spokesperson, Jermaine Carelse, confirmed the fire: “The Fire and Rescue Service received the emergency call to a building alight at 2.51 am this morning. Two fire engines, a rescue vehicle and 12 staff were on the scene. The fire was extinguished at 4.24 am. The entire outside serving area,  consisting of tables and chairs were destroyed. The exterior of the building was only slightly damaged by the fire.”