Think ‘canals’ and Amsterdam or Venice come to mind. But London’s vibrant waterways are just as impressive; overlooked only because there is so much else crammed into the capital. A day wandering the banks gives you a glimpse into their industrial past and a chance to share in the recreational present.

Some people might think it unwise to plan a trip to the hills more than two days in advance, let alone two months. But being southern in address, frugal by nature and a non-driver by choice, there is little I can do but throw caution to the wind and commit to the uncertainties of the Scottish weather and plan my adventures early.

Walking boots, check. Scarf and woolly hat, check. Oyster card, check. Swipe card for work... I'll leave that one behind today. It feels odd donning waterproofs on a weekday morning, but the occasional midweek day off is one advantage of working shifts.