Just back from a bit of flying, good to be in the armchair again.
The answer is as always : It depends!
Into a Spanish destination , with a 3.2 degree glide and some tailwind ,I was given some flak by ATC with regards to my speed reduction some 18 miles out fully established. ( From 220 to180kts). At which I promptly replied: " Doing my best,Sir , You should join me on the jumpseat one day, You might learn something, Sir."
He responded : " Love to, Tower now, have a good day, Sir!!"
Never been to LHR, never going, but if You cant figure out your energy management after 10 minutes in the hold , ask for another 10!
Done Gatwick and they sure take no prisoners, the rest of the UK is rather flexible.
Did Orly long time ago and you for sure want to be stable on speed there as 2.5 miles is all they gave us.
Anyway
Need to get that book, what was it again,,,
Regards
Cpt B