THE iconic paddle steamer Waverley will be returning to Swanage Pier next month.

Named after Sir Walter Scott's first novel, the Waverley is the world's last sea-going paddle steamer.

She'll be sailing from Swanage Pier in September, taking in The Isle of Wight, Portsmouth Dockyard and the Jurassic Coast.

A spokesman explained: "Waverley was built for the London & North Eastern Railway to replace the paddle steamer, HMS Waverley, which was sunk on May 29, 1940 whilst evacuating troops from Dunkirk.

"Launched on October 2, 1946, from the former A&J Inglis yard in Glasgow, Waverley made her maiden voyage on June 16, 1947."

In 1974, Waverley was bought and began a second career as a tourist attraction.

Since then she has carried over five million passengers from over 60 ports around the UK.

A major restoration project also returned Waverley to the original 1940s style in which she was built.

The spokesman added: "Today passengers can eat, drink and relax in the restored period lounges onboard and enjoy panoramic views from the sun-kissed promenade deck."

Waverley will be sailing from Swanage Pier from September 7-20.

Visit waverleyexcursions.co.uk or call 0141 243 2224.