The Thames is one of England's major waterways, and has been pivotal in London's growth as England's capital city.

From Roman times until the early 20th century London was a port and the Thames facilitated international trade. It was also an important form of transport. During the 16th and 17th centuries the Guild of Watermen ferried people up and down the river. During the 17th and 18th centuries a period known as the 'Little Ice Age' occurred and the Thames froze over during many winters. In fact Frost Fairs were held on the river and activities such as ice bowling took place.

However, the river was not always a cause for celebration - by the mid 19th century the level of river pollution was so bad that sittings in the House of Commons had to be abandoned. This problem became known as the 'Great Stink'.

Today it is much cleaner and aquatic life has returned to the formerly 'dead' waters, including one bottle nosed whale. The whale, which was a female, was spotted in January 2006 to the great surprise of onlookers. It had lost its way from its natural habitat in the Arctic Sea. A rescue attempt was made to save the whale but unfortunately she died before she could be released.

The Thames has deservedly been voted one of England's icons. It has played a role in many significant events in English history, and people come from all over the world to see it.

The stamp below is from the Bridges of London stamp set released in September of 2002.

Illustration

47p stamp of Blackfriars Bridge, 2002