A Frozen River Thames?

For those of you who have not visited London, 

the River Thames cuts through London 

and is naturally an important part of London's social and economic history

Satellite Image of River Thames through London
[Wikipedia]

Last month, the headlines read 'UK Experiences The Coldest December On Record' (here)

Could the River Thames actually freeze in London?

It probably wouldn't because 

it is deeper and faster since the old London Bridge was demolished in 1831

However, the river has frozen solid-ish for 24 winters since the 1400s

So it has happened

River Thames in 1950s [source]

Since 1608, 

Londoners held 'Frost Fairs' on the Thames ice to make the most of the cold, 

which included sport and commercial activity

Although the River Thames still freezes, 

it hasn't had a 'proper' deep freeze since 1814

Last 'Frost Fair' in 1814
[Source]

The period from mid-14th century to the 19th century in Europe 

is called the 'Little Ice Age' due to the severity of the climate, 

especially the winters

So for those of you wondering, 

is there a difference between a damp cold and a dry cold? 

Nope - cold is cold 

Do we still get cracked knuckles and chapped lips even with the humidity? 

Yep

And I've learned that balaclava is not the same as baklava 

I could use a bit of both

I went online to buy my husband a snow shovel for Christmas 

I couldn't resist this two-for-one offer:  

[AmazonUK]

Now that's funny :)

Hoping you are staying warm this weekend!