THANKS to literary classics such as A Christmas Carol, Charles Dickens has become synonymous with the festive season.

The Museum of London’s Dickens and London exhibition is, therefore, timely.

News Shopper: Dickens Dream by Robert William Buss. Courtesy of the Charles Dickens Museum

Featuring rarely seen artefacts, including the novelist’s writing desk and chair, his bank ledger and first editions of his most famous books, the show examines the central relationship between Dickens and the capital.

Arranged thematically rather than autobiographically, the exhibition, which runs at the museum in the City until June 10, explores the great social questions of the 19th century, including childhood, prostitution and poverty.

News Shopper: Charles Dickens's writing chair. Courtesy of Ally Carmichael

It also reveals Dickens’ close connection with the Thames.

Dickens described the popular steam packets which journeyed along the river to towns like Gravesend in Martin Chuzzlewit and the experiences of Magwitch in Great Expectations were inspired by prison ships such as The Warrior, which was moored in Woolwich in 1846.

News Shopper: First edition of Bleak House being conserved. Courtesy of Ally Carmichael

Alex Werner, lead curator of Dickens and London, says Dickens was significant as he was the first author to describe the modern city of the 19th century and its profound impact on society and, in particular, on ordinary people.

He said: "London was Dickens inspiration. He knew its alleys and streets better than anyone.

"His writings remain relevant today especially for the rapidly developing mega-cities around the world, which face many of the problems and challenges that impacted on Victorian London 150 years ago.”

Marking Dickens’ 200th birthday, it’s a must-see exhibition for anyone interested in the author and Victorian London.

For more information on the exhibition, visit museumoflondon.org.uk