An examination of the assumption that there were extensive trade links along the western coasts of the British Isles. Particular attention is focussed on the links between Britain and Ireland, Gaul and beyond. Wooding argues that the links were sporadic and small scale. Full use is made of archaeological and textual sources. Details of routes, cargoes, links with Gaul and the Meditteranean and sites like Whithorn and Tintagel.