Just remember that if indeed "Getting around is easiest by Car in the UK" they ARE driving on the left, I remember coming down a narrow road at Maidenhead in the left and a drunken brit came out from a pub sverving into his right lane, then, of course, I pull to the right by instinct and he pulls to the left for the same reason. Well, nothing happened but a good scare for me and sudden sobriety for him. I do not know why Steve degrades the British rail and public transport system, I find it as good as any in europe. Half the experiences to take home will be found walking to the nearest bus stop/railway station. I you are planning England and The Netherlands, there is a lovely "mini cruise" from Harwich to Hook van Holland.
Craig, do not make the mistake of "going to europe", pick one (or maybe two) european countries and go there.
have fun
Erik Malund