Take comfort that the exchange rate is actually pretty good in a historical sense. When I was a kid (1960's)it was about $2.50 US to a GBP. Now it's about $1.50-ish, which is good. I was in the UK during the '80's when it was about $1.25 US and a pleasant time was had by all.

...and don't forget that that 1960's $2.50 isn't adjusted for inflation...I know that it's relative as the GBP has to be adjusted for inflation as well, but $2.50/1965 = $17.00/2010!

Best

AA