AN HISTORIC paddle steamer is returning to Southend this year as the full timetable for its popular estuary cruises have been revealed today.

Waverley, which is the last seagoing passenger-carrying paddle steamer in the world, will be returning to Southend Pier from September 27 to October 13 for the London and Thames Estuary cruises.

Full details for these popular cruises have been announced today which includes trips to Tower Bridge, the historic Second World War Maunsell Forts, Gravesend, Ipswich and Clacton as well as cruises along the River Medway.

There will also be plenty of special cruises this year including a trip to Rochester for the paddle steamer Medway Queen's 100th anniversary, a D-Day cruise, and Radio Caroline anniversary trips. 

A grand finale cruise from Southend Pier on October 13 will take passengers to the Thames Forts for a parade of historic steam tugs.

The Waverley was built in 1946 and can carry up to 800 passengers.

For all the details and bookings available, visit waverleyexcursions.co.uk/book.