W1 - Lets get to the start

Start 177 miles from the finish - so realistically you can't take the car.. Train was the only option.

 In the past I have been to the 1960's edifice known as New Street Station in Birmingham and thought it was a dark concrete dump. BUT wow it is now so much better - bathed in natural light, a vibrant eating place that is a credit to Birmingham. Yes its still a railway station but amazing - opened last year.
New Street Station roof

Alas the trains were not on time but everyone was really helpful and we got to Chepstow at about 4 with lots of rain.

Overall it's cute, old and has history. The castle was started in 1067 ! The Woodfield Arms - where we are staying - built in 1648 (English Civil War) and guess where JK Rowling was born (as in Harry Potter) - yes Chepstow !!!

Although it was raining we walked down to the Severn Estuary so we have done the first 2 miles of the route. 😇 Oh and I would recommend the Shangri-la chinese in Chepstow. In fact Chepstow for one day is pretty cool with lots of cute houses, castle, museum and shops although rather wet (look closely below).

The start of Offas Dyke - 177 miles to go
Back to England through a huge puddle

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