NHS is a pretty decent system, universal healthcare should be a right and a given in a modern first world country! I did love the pubs on my recent trip there, although, I think I would have been able to experience it better without little kids! What are allotments? Do you mean like common greens?

It does seem like a country where the divides are quite strong, from old and new rich (and titled) to the common person. It is a country of great history... but great historical baggage as well!