In the planning stages of this trip, many moons ago (think early-2024), there was an infomercial about puffin in South Wales. We realised that we could be in the area in late April which coincided with the puffin nesting season. No brainer … so it was an interwebbery search, tickets were booked (when they became available and they sold out fast). This meant we had another fixed point from which we worked backwards, plotting our trip. This was unmoveable but, as we have been here, the trip has evolved, destinations changed and routes rerouted. Thank goodness for ‘free cancellation’ options!

Before we begin … we know. Chester is not in Wales. For writing convenience, some historical border flexible and geographical proximity, Chester is included in this chapter.