A massive fire gutted a historic building at 109-111 Princes Street in central Edinburgh early Thursday morning, July 9, 2026.
The blaze triggered widespread public transport cancellations and road closures near Edinburgh Castle.
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) deployed firefighters after receiving reports of the emergency just before 4:00 a.
m.
Thick black smoke and heavy flames from the upper floors filled the skyline over the main shopping street.
Transport Disruptions
The incident forced officials to cordon off the area, disrupting the morning rush hour. Public transit operators quickly altered their routes to bypass the closure.
"Due to a building fire, Princes Street in Edinburgh is currently closed at the moment and is unable to be served," stated transport operator Scottish Citylink on social media.
The operator advised commuters to seek alternative boarding locations.
"Next alternative stops are either the Bus Station or Shandwick Place," added Scottish Citylink.
Local transit provider Lothian Buses also announced comprehensive diversions for all its routes in the area.
"Due to a road closure buses are unable to serve Princes Street and are instead diverted via South Charlotte Street, George Street and South St David Street in both directions until further notice," stated Lothian Buses.
The cause of the blaze remains unknown. The SFRS has confirmed it will issue an official public briefing regarding the incident.
