Have just returned from a week's flying in northern France (L2K, Alencon, Abbeville, Saumur, L'Aigle, Bernay and Deauville). Only L2K and Deauville had ATC in English. At all others I used my O Level French and an aviation crib sheet. Had absolutely no problems and found the French extremely welcoming and helpful. I routinely telephone ahead for PPR and runway details as I do in England.
Abbeville are concerned that British pilots are not formally closing their flight plans and not arranging PPR for customs. Play by the rules and flying in France is delightful - I have visited 24 French airfields in the past 3 years and only the refueller at Cannes was unhelpful. For an unwelcoming flying experience take a trip through Italian air space!