Image AI generated
What do police know about the fire at the historic World’s End pub
The historic World’s End pub in Tilbury, Essex, was almost destroyed by a fire on 23 September 2026, prompting concern over the loss of a landmark associated with Samuel Pepys and Daniel Defoe. Officers were called to the former pub on Fort Road shortly after 4.40 pm and arrested a man in his 20s on suspicion of arson, according to Essex Police. Officers were called shortly after 4.40 pm on Wednesday, 23 September 2026, following a fire at the former World’s End pub on Fort Road in Tilbury. In its statement published on 24 September, the council said local councillors had expressed their sadness over the loss of the historic building. Essex Police asked anyone with relevant information to quote incident 918 of 23 September when contacting the force. Essex Police confirmed that a man in his 20s had been arrested on suspicion of arson and that he remained in custody for questioning when the force issued its statement on 24 September 2026.
The Grade II listed building was included in Thurrock’s recently launched heritage trails and was recognised for its connection to the town’s naval history.
The force said the man remained in custody for questioning as the investigation continued. Thurrock Council expressed sadness over the damage, while the police investigation continued. Police attended the scene and arrested a man in his 20s on suspicion of arson. Police also appealed for information, including CCTV footage, dashcam recordings and other material that could help establish the circumstances surrounding the fire. In an official statement Thurrock Council issued the following day, the fire had destroyed the pub, describing the damage as extensive. The investigation was ongoing at the time of the statements, and the arrest did not establish the cause of the fire or determine responsibility for it. Scott also expressed sadness at the destruction of the historic pub, highlighting its importance to local residents. He described the Grade II listed building as a place that had held generations of memories for people in Tilbury. Scott thanked Essex County Fire and Rescue Service and other emergency services for their efforts in tackling the fire. He also acknowledged the Port of Tilbury Police for their response and assistance in keeping the public safe. The police investigation was continuing, and officers appealed for anyone with relevant footage or information to come forward. Thurrock Council also stated that it understood Essex County Fire and Rescue Service was investigating the cause of the blaze.