Hi "Ploddy"
Something 13ft or shorter should be fine and trying friends' rods is good start. The members of the Haddo club in Methlick are a friendly bunch and I'm sure they will show you what they use. As Matt said, a couple of lessons will help you a lot and give you the opportunity to try a few different rods and lines! This would also give you a feel for the different types of lines, which would be explained and demonstrated properly.
Best wishes
Mike