Popular river cruises on the world's last seagoing paddle steamer from Southend Pier are set to return next week.

Waverley Excursions are set to start operating river cruises from Southend Pier once again on September 22 until October 8.

Services from the pier will include trips along the River Blackwater and River Medway, as well as excursions to Tower Bridge and the Second World War Maunsell Forts.

One notable addition to this year’s programme will be the Waverley taking the spotlight in a Historic Ships Parade on Saturday, September 30, where it will meet several other historic vessels, including Steam Tug Challenge, X-Pilot, Vic 96 and Touchstone.

Waverley will voyage out to Knock John and Shivering Sands Forts, providing up close and personal views of these iconic structures.

Some of the trips to the capital will be one-way only with a few return services.

One-way trips to Clacton Pier and Gravesend will also be available, with a return to Southend available by coach.

Passengers are being asked to check on the firm’s booking page to see if the service is a return to Southend by the Waverley or by coach before making a booking.

Bookings can now be made online by clicking here.