hansengels,
I would recommend Biggin Hill (EGKB). Reasonably easy to get into London and if you want to go flight-seeing then there is a nice little route across the dome through the Class D city zone. Assuming the clearence is given, most times it is. If traffic doesn't permit you can fly around the Dartford x-ing, which is nice to see.
I have heard many second hand stories about the AFISO at Elstree but have no direct experience of the chap there and the attitude. If it is as challenging as is said then that is sad really but it takes all sorts to make a world. All I can say is that the controllers at Biggin Hill have always shown a professional attitude to me even when I make a mistake, which IMHO is the way it should be.
Barney
P.S. Our group C172 is hangered at Biggin so if you want any local knowledge please send me a PM or E-mail; happy to help
