Scotland in December! Dress warmly and carry a hiking staff. This isn't to defend yourself from nationalists promoting Sean Connery as King, but for a walking aid. I know Britain actually has a few rare big cats roaming the countryside. From what im told, these are released exotic pets. Of course,the ley line and crop circle set will tell you they're native survivors. I doubt any encounters, but those hedghogs charge when wounded according to my brit friends; requiring nothing less than a rapid fire reponse from a SMLE. Have you taken any courses there? I know there is the one school and instructor.