At Elstree visiting aircraft are requested to fly straight in with circuit traffic giving way. Only students at Cabair and Firecrest can fly circuits. This is why visiting pilots aren't particularly aware of the odd circuits. They are deemed too complicated for visiting pilots - they change on the hour, change from left to right in the afternoon and the first turn of the left hand circuit off of 26 is to the right. A missed approach means flying outside the ATZ back to reposition for a 4 mile final.
There are two grumpy FISOs at Elstree, which includes the infamous one who is still there but is sometimes marginally more friendly than he used to be after lots of complaints, as well as some pleasant ones. It shouldn't put you off though, it's not like you have to have them round for tea after your flight. Let him shout - he is the one that will sound stupid.
In my opinion Elstree has little to commend it unless it happens to be close to where you are or where you want to go. If it is convenient for you then it's great.