Did you know that 200 years ago an elephant was supposedly led across the frozen river Thames?
Between 1600 and 1814, London experienced freezing winters much harsher than those today, in a period known as the Little Ice Age.
It was so cold, in fact, that the River Thames would occasionally freeze over completely and the tradition of frost fairs began.
Tradesmen set up shop on the thick ice, food and drinks were sold and dancing and general merriment took place on the river.
During the last frost fair on 1 February 1814, an elephant was supposedly led across the frozen river beneath Blackfriars Bridge.
Although the Thames doesn’t freeze over anymore due to warmer winters, Bankside is keeping the spirit alive by reinventing the frost fair for the 21st century, complete with its very own elephant puppet.
Watch the full video below.
Featured image credit: Emily Stevens
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