AN HISTORIC paddle steamer is returning to Southend this summer - with the full timetable for its popular estuary cruises revealed.

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 were announced earlier this year 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.

Some of these cruises are already fully booked including the London Tower Bridge return trip on Saturday, September 28, so people are advised to check before booking certain dates and cruises.

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.