The Paddle Steamer Preservation Society (PSPS) is Britain’s longest established, largest and most successful steamship preservation group.
A registered charity founded in 1959, we have about 2,500 members and through our associated charitable companies we operate the only two working paddle steamers in Great Britain; PS Waverley and PS Kingswear Castle.
The Society also supports other paddle steamer projects including PS Maid of the Loch and PS Medway Queen.
Without the PSPS there would no longer be the opportunity to sail on a Paddle Steamer in Great Britain.
Our aims are:
- to preserve paddle steamers in sailing condition;
- to educate the public in the historic significance of paddle steamers in the Nation’s maritime and industrial heritage;
- to acquire, preserve and exhibit a collection of equipment and material associated with paddle steamers.
The PSPS has members across the world with five branches covering Great Britain. Each branch organises regular talks, social and special events throughout the year. Please click on a branch below for more information.
PSPS Collection
A small selection of Waverley handbills held in the PSPS Collection.
The Paddle Steamer Archive Collection is administered by the Paddle Steamer Preservation Society and forms the largest and most complete archive of material relating to paddle and pleasure steamers in the UK.
The Collection contains over 50,000 items relating to the development of the paddle and pleasure steamers that plied the coasts of the UK from the 1850’s to the present day.
Latest National News
Published Wednesday 25th August 2021An Exciting Weekend on the Waverley
The middle weekend of August visit several ports, including Ardrishaig for the first time in 20 years.
Published Monday 16th August 2021Waverley Arriving at Ardrishaig
Michael Girvan of Skyrise Aerial Media has kindly provided a video and photographic record of Waverley's arrival in to Ardrishaig after an absence of 20 years.
Published Wednesday 11th August 2021Waverley for Ardrishaig
Waverley will make a rare visit to Ardrishaig on Sunday 15th August.
Published Wednesday 4th August 2021Waverley Update
A summary of Waverley's 2021 Clyde sailing season so far.
Published Tuesday 20th July 2021Wingfield Castle Update July 2021
Hartlepool Borough Council allocates £4 million for the restoration of Wingfield Castle.
Published Tuesday 20th July 2021KC Update 19th July 2021
KC's passenger capacity increased in line with the relaxation of Government Covid restrictions.
Published Thursday 15th July 2021Waverley on the Clyde 2021
Waverley's season is progressing well during a period of very fine weather.
Published Sunday 4th July 2021Waverley has Returned to Service
Waverley welcomed her first passengers of the 2021 season aboard on Tuesday June 29 with everyone enjoying the idyllic sailing conditions.
Published Monday 14th June 2021Waverley’s Clyde 2021 Summer Sailings Announced
Following the successful completion of Waverley's sea trails last week, Waverley Excursions has published the Clyde 2021 timetable.
Forthcoming National Events
- Nov 19FridayWaverley in 2021Online EventPaul Semple illustrates the challenges of preparing Waverley for service in 2021, and shares some of the highlights of her season.
- Apr 1FridayKingswear Castle's Rebuild Phase 1Online EventJohn Megoran presents an illustrated account of the first phase of Kingswear Castle’s rebuild, and outlines the work and funds required for the remaining two phases.
