This November marks 30 years since the devastating Windsor Castle fire ripped through the royal palace on the morning of Friday, 20 November 1992. Firefighters battled raging flames for nearly 12 hours, saving one of Britain’s most treasured landmarks from total ruin.
Firefighters from Six Counties Rally to Save Windsor
Brave crews from Berkshire, London, Oxfordshire, Surrey, Buckinghamshire, and Hampshire flooded the scene. Over 200 firefighters, armed with 36 pumping appliances, seven specialist units, and 25 officers, joined forces to tame the inferno.
Using jets, aerial ladders, and cutting fire breaks through the thick lead roofs, they wrestled the blaze under control after nine hours, fully extinguishing it three hours later. Their guts and skill averted an unthinkable royal disaster.
Firefighters Recall the Night That Shocked Britain
The 30th anniversary arrives just months after the death of Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, who was in residence during the fire. Some Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service (RBFRS) crew had the rare honour of meeting Her Majesty in their careers.
- Lee Arslett, Communications Technician: “Keeping communications running was a huge challenge. I had to quickly learn the ropes and navigate such a massive, chaotic site.”
- Paul Thomas, Group Manager West Hub: “I was only six weeks into my job when the call came. Seeing the Brunswick Tower burning like a giant candle is burned into my mind. The rebuild looks spot on – exactly as before.”
- Phil Knight, Station Manager: “This fire stands out above all others for me. The crowds lining the streets, cheering us on, really boosted morale.”
- Tracy Hawkins, Health and Safety Manager: “I was in Fire Control when the call came through. Realising it wasn’t a drill was a shock I’ll never forget.”
Chief Fire Officer Pays Tribute to Heroism
“It’s hard to believe 30 years have flown by,” said Chief Fire Officer Wayne Bowcock. “I was a trainee firefighter then, glued to the news, thinking about the challenges ahead. Thanks to the bravery and skill of everyone involved, the fire was brought under control with no serious injuries. It remains one of RBFRS’s most remarkable moments.”
