In order to give much in the way of advice, a few details need to be considered. You mention that you've been looking in the Clydesdale forum, I spend a little time there myself, so no disparagement here, but just how hefty are you? Many of the better bikes are mede for flyweight types. How much money are you willing to invest in your ride? How flexible are you / how would you rate your physical condition? Where will you ride? How often will you ride? What other physical activities will you engage in?
I was in the same position about 10 years ago and bought a nice Gary Fisher hybrid. 10 years later, at 63, I've sold or given away several bikes and now have 5 bikes to cover the different things I like to do on a bike and I'm considering another hybrid! All things considered, which they never are, a hybrid is a good place to start.
It's not what you ride, it's that you ride.