XRAY - Model racing cars

Sorry to go off-topic, but I have some questions for our British collegues regarding a part of their country.

My wife and I are considering crossing the pond so she can attend a conference.

It would be in late March of '06.

The conference will be held NE of London near a village named Stow-On-Wold. That's in the Cotswolds.

I'm curious as to what the country is like from your perspectives (if you have one), and what kind of weather one might expect at that time of year.

I'm also considering renting a sports car the that weekend - maybe an Elise or Caterham - something British to be certain. This conference is no interest to me at all so I'll have to entertain myself during daylight hours. What better way to visit England for the first time than go tear-assing around the English countryside in an English, top-down roadster.

So anything within a 1/2 day from there that a car buff mind find interesting besides pubs serving warm beer? I am not opposed to checking out an RC meet in the area but won't bring a car.

Any of you guys live near there?

How much is gas right now?

What should I do to make certain I don't get my ass kicked when visiting local pubs. Are there any protocols I should be aware of before "bellying up to the bar" as we say. Would it be considered bad taste to order Guiness in that part of England? Do people in that part of the world hate Americans? Should I pretend to be Canadian? Or should I stay at the Inn and watch TV all day?

Oh hell, maybe I''ll just stay home.



Finally do any of you know where Portmeirion is (Wales) and how far it would be from where I'd be - thinking about an excursion with the wife after the conference

Nice part of the world down there. As for the weather, good question... Could rain, snow, hail, be sunny, ah the good old British weather. Best tip is to come prepared for anything, about the only certainty is that it'll be cold (5-10 degrees centigrade).

I won't tell you the price of petrol, you'll not get over it...

The right side hey!!! ) I am suprised that the speed difference was not mentioned. Maybe we drive on the wrong side - but at the right speeds!

I live in the cotswolds and you will find the area stunning. If you have a chance and fancy taking your missus for a cultural visit Waddesdon Manor is great. http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/scripts ... ERTYID=266

If you want a taste of luxury check out Hartwell House - President Clinton (and others) has stayed there on visits (I honeymooned in the same suite) - proper 5 star service. http://www.hartwell-house.com/

As for car related the "home of british motor racing" is not too far - Silverstone Circuit http://www.silverstone-circuit.co.uk/

Hope you enjoy your visit. Oh and looking out of the window right now - the weather is grey drizzle

Rob