Dozens of firefighters rush to Somerset House as thick black smoke seen for miles over London

The cause of the fire is not yet known but London Fire Brigade received 20 calls reporting the fire.

London Fire Brigade also confirmed a 32-metre ladder was being used at the scene, with crews from Soho, Dowgate and Islington among those tackling the blaze.

"Fifteen fire engines and around 100 firefighters have been deployed to a fire at Somerset House.

"Crews are tackling flames located in part of the buildings roof.

"Two of the Brigade's 32m ladders have been sent to the scene to support firefighting operations.

"Traffic in the surrounding area will be impacted as crews respond.

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"The Brigade's Control Officers have taken over 20 calls reporting the fire, with the first received at 1159.

"Crews from Soho, Dowgate, Islington and surrounding fire stations are attending the scene. The cause of the fire is not yet known."

In a statement on X, Somerset House said: "Owing to a fire in one small part of Somerset House, the site is currently closed.

"London Battle and other events today will not take place. We apologise for any inconvenience."

A social media user added: "Slightly disturbed by the amount of smoke currently pouring out of the roof of Somerset House."

Another said: "Looks like there’s a fire at Somerset House, I’m really hoping that’s not the Courthauld Gallery going up. Watch this space."

There were fears the fire could have been at the heart of where Somerset House holds numerous historic documents.

However, a social media user stressed the blaze appears to have engulfed the West Wing rather than the Courtauld.

Somerset House, which welcomes three million visitors every year, was scheduled to host a breakdancing event between 2pm and 8.30pm today.

Choreographer Jade Hackett was due to assemble dancers for the London Battle event at Somerset House's iconic open-air courtyard.

Somerset House said: "Returning for a second triumphant year, London Battle takes over Somerset House’s iconic open-air courtyard with a day of dance and breaking showcases, workshops, live DJs and a big outdoor party, all culminating in a head-to-head dance battle between the four corners of London."

Professor Mark Hallett, Marit Rausing director of the Courtauld, added: “The Courtauld, including our galleries and collection of artworks, is unaffected by the fire.“As a precaution, we have closed the galleries for the rest of the day.

”Somerset House confirmed “all staff and public are safe” and added all of its priceless artworks, including a Van Gogh painting, have not been damaged.