Wigan fire forces evacuation of historic John Bull pub

An overnight blaze broke out at the Grade‑II‑listed John Bull Chop House on Coopers Row in Wigan at around 4 a.m. on 4 August 2026. Four fire engines from Wigan, Atherton and Leigh stations responded, using breathing apparatus, hose reels and specialist equipment to bring the fire under control. A 50‑metre exclusion zone was imposed around the premises and the public was urged to avoid the area.

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service confirmed that the fire was contained to one end of the building and no injuries were reported. Wigan Council and the neighbouring Wiend Bar reported that the fire did not spread to adjacent premises. The owners, Pete and Victoria, were thanked for their cooperation as crews continued to assess damage.

The incident has been treated as an isolated fire with no further risk to public safety.