advice from barristers needed - would you recommend this career?

I have a law degree (and a masters in Law) andI passed all my FE1 exams 4 years ago. I was unable to get an apprenticeship despite doing work experience with law firms and even working as a legal secretary for 2 years. It reached a point where I had to consider other options and move away from the idea of becomming a solicitor, and was lucky enough to get work in a different sector. I enjoy this work, and it has potential to go somewhere if I persist.
But before I embark on a totally different career path (and starting from scratch), can anyone tell me - would I be crazy to consider the Bar?
How would my qualifications stand to me at the Kings Inns? At what point would I start? I understand I'd need to do a course and then sit exams. Is it any easier to get your foot in the door so-to-speak once these exams are obtained? Finding an apprenticeship, it seemed, was very much "who you know" - would I find this process any more transparent, or is it any more "open"?
I am a very academic person, and the study of law comes naturally to me. This is why I'm having these second thoughts about a new career. I am 31, so maybe I'd be mad to start studying again...
Any advice much appreciated!

Surely from your studies, experience and contacts gained in the profession from working in it you would already have a good idea and can also speak with Counsel that you would know?

It just something that strikes me as odd that you can't.