Three festive facts you never knew about London

Three bits of festive London trivia to see you through the Christmas pub quiz or the awkward lull in conversation with your drunken aunt.

1. In the 1700s up to 250,000 turkeys were walked from Norfolk to London for Christmas each year. They had to start their journey in August.

2. London sweet maker Thomas J Smith invented the cracker in 1847. He was inspired to add the bang while watching crackling fire.

3. In 1940, during WWII, London transport workers delivered over 40,000 charity gifts to children sheltering in underground stations.

In London for Christmas? Take a look at our ultimate festive guide.

Or glug your way through the best (and worst) supermarket mulled wine.