Home > Europe > United Kingdom > England > London > Boroughs > City of London
Frost Fair on the Thames at London, 1683
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Heritage Images
Frost Fair on the Thames at London, 1683
Frost Fair on the Thames at London, 1683. Winters in Britain were often particularly cold in the 17th and 18th centuries, a period known as the Little Ice Age. These impromptu fairs, offering a wide variety of amusements occurred in winters severe enough for the waters of the Thames to freeze over. The first was held in 1607, and the last in 1814, since when higher temperatures have meant that the Thames has never frozen over
Heritage Images features heritage image collections
Media ID 14849782
© Ann Ronan Picture Library / Heritage-Images
Amusement Climate Climate Change Enjoyment Fair Frost Fair Frozen Funfair Meteorological Meteorology Pulling Tent Tents Thames Ann Ronan Pictures
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> Art
> Entertainment
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> Boroughs
> City of London
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> River Thames
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> Weather
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> Rivers
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures the enchanting scene of the Frost Fair on the Thames at London in 1683. During the Little Ice Age, winters in Britain were bitterly cold, and this period saw impromptu fairs like these emerge when the waters of the Thames froze over. The tradition began in 1607 and continued until 1814, marking a time when temperatures were low enough to create a frozen playground on this iconic river. In this image, we see a bustling fairground set against a backdrop of icy wonder. Tents are scattered across the frozen expanse, offering various amusements for all who dare to venture onto this wintry stage. People can be seen pulling sleds or gliding effortlessly on skates as they revel in the novelty of walking upon water. The atmosphere is filled with joy and excitement as families and friends come together to enjoy this rare spectacle. Boats transformed into makeshift stalls offer treats and trinkets while entertainers captivate audiences with their performances. Laughter fills the air as people engage in games and activities that only winter's embrace could provide. This remarkable engraving not only showcases an extraordinary moment in history but also serves as a reminder of how our climate has changed over time. As higher temperatures prevail today, it is unlikely that we will witness such frost fairs again on the Thames. Let us cherish these glimpses into our past where nature's whimsy allowed for moments of pure enjoyment amidst freezing conditions.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
