A large fire broke out in Petersfield town centre this evening (Thursday, July 3).

Hampshire Fire and Rescue were called to Lavant Street at around 6.30pm following reports of a blaze.

A drone photo of the fire in flats above shops in Lavant Street, Petersfield, courtesy of Big Ladder Photography.
A drone photo of the fire in flats above shops in Lavant Street, Petersfield, courtesy of Big Ladder Photography. (Chris Gorman/Big Ladder.)

The fire is believed to have spread to flats and rooftops above One Tree Books, House of Boo, and Snappy Snaps.

Thick smoke from the incident was visible from a considerable distance.

Fire Petersfield
The fire in Petersfield. (Martin Constable)

Several fire service and police vehicles are at the scene.

The area has been cordoned off, and the fire service is advising people to avoid the area if possible.

Roads around Lavant Street are blocked, with a police cordon also in place on Chapel Street.

It is not yet known if there have been any casualties.

The fire in Petersfield town centre, as seen from the train station on July 3, 2025.
The fire in Petersfield town centre, as seen from the train station on July 3, 2025. (Paul Garrod)

Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service have been approached for comment.

One Tree Books was founded by Tim O’Kelly in 1994. The shop is known for hosting regular talks about current affairs.

Further updates will follow.