Fire sees Bristol's We the Curious museum evacuated as thick black smoke rises above city centre

  • Watch black smoke rise above Bristol city centre

Bristol's We the Curious was evacuated yesterday (Saturday 9 April) after a large fire broke out at the popular city centre attraction.

The roof of the building was seen billowing with smoke and several fire engines were on site to tackle the blaze.

Around half a dozen firefighters were also seen on the roof of the building.

The attraction confirmed all visitors and staff were evacuated and accounted.

They also confirmed that the venue has sustained fire and water damage and that they will be closed on Sunday 10 April whilst they 'assess the damage and make a plan for the next few days'.

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The cause of the fire is unknown.

Cordons were put in place with nearby roads closed with smoke visible from across the city.

On Twitter, We the Curious said: "Our venue has been evacuated following a fire alarm, caused by a fire on our roof.

"Avon Fire and Rescue Service and the police are currently on site, all staff and visitors are accounted for."

Shortly after 5.30pm, the venue said: "The fire service have now handed the building back to us, so we’re now able to retrieve visitors’ possessions from the venue."

On Saturday evening (9 April), a statement on their website read: "Our building has sustained fire and water damage, and some of our key server systems are also affected, so we’re currently without our phone or email systems.

"We’ll be closed on Sunday 10 April whilst we assess the damage and make a plan for the next few days."

Smoke billowing into the sky at We the Curious in Bristol Credit: ITV News

Neighbouring attraction Bristol Aquarium said: "Our thoughts are with We The Curious today who have done a tremendous job evacuating after a fire incident.

"For Bristol Aquarium visitors, access is now restricted outside of our building for today to protect the area.

"Tickets purchased online are valid for six months."

West of England mayor Dan Norris has also tweeted in support of the museum.

Many have posted on social media to share their concern. One said: "Thinking of everyone at We the Curious which is such a fabulous place."

Another said: "Sad to see the news we the curious in Bristol has had a fire. Hope everyone is safe and accounted for, such a wonderful attraction!"