To IMC or not to IMC
Granted you can do it, however if you are going the CPL/IR route then it is an additional cost. It is only a national rating so you can't use it on day trips to France, and it gives you NO credit towards the IR (other than perhaps some practical experience...?) with an IMC costing around £2,000 (c. £120/hr + VAT) + landing fees + test - time which could be used to push yourself on awkward and challenging XCs. Time for an age old quote... A superior Pilot uses his/her superior judgement to avoid using his/her superior skill....