Another wee update
On Wednesday I went to the recommended bike rental place and the guy was class! As a poster above recommended, he too suggested a step through bike. He even took me out onto the path and got me going, and kindly wouldn't take any money. I then took the bike to a nearby park and gave it a go.
I would say I'm only able to go about 60% of the time that I want to [still up from 0%!] and stopping, people, children, and dogs, send me into a bit of a panic. Definitely wouldn't be road worthy anytime soon, BUT and this is a big but -
See when there's a bit of momentum going, the pace is comfortable, the balance is good, just riding away - genuinely feels like bliss.
I have the bike still and am on a day off so debating on whether to go to a quiet campus or a more adventurous cycle near the sea.
Either way, one of the biggest hassles I've had with the bike is getting it up the stairs! Omg I was absolutely bet and thought this is how I'd get injured wi the bike - at home and on the stairs.
So now, psyching myself to go out again and decide on where to go. Still nervous, but already feeling a good bit happier than before starting off.