In the UK the situation is clearly laid out in the Air Navigation Order 2016 Article 70, copied below. The relevant section is 3 which implies that you can be the PIC and not at the controls as long as the flight is not a public transport passenger flight. Different for helicopters (section 4)
Pilot to remain at controls and be secured in seat
70.—(1) During flight, the pilot in command must—
(a) keep any safety belt fastened while at the pilot’s station; and
(b) remain at the controls of the aircraft at all times except if another pilot is taking the
controls.
(2) If the aircraft is required by or under this Order to carry two pilots, the pilot in command
must cause both pilots to remain at the controls during take-off and landing.
(3) If the aircraft carries two or more pilots (whether or not it is required to do so) and is flying
on a flight for the purpose of the public transport of passengers, the pilot in command must remain
at the controls during take-off and landing.
(4) An operator must not permit a helicopter rotor to be turned under power for the purpose of
making a flight unless there is a person at the controls entitled in accordance with article 137 to act
as pilot in command of the helicopter. (a)
Last edited by Max Angle; 16th Jul 2020 at 10:05.