Is it just me or are all of these Bitcoin exchange websites absolutely terrible in their methods and service?

It's not you.

Here might be some options to consider:

Blockchain.info just added the ability to use Barclay's Pingit to buy bitcoins using GBP:

- https://blockchain.info/wallet/deposit-pingit

You can also send cash (GBP) in the mail to Bitcoin Nordic (in Denmark):

- http://www.BitcoinNordic.com

And, or course, there may be a chance for a local trade:

- http://www.LocalBitcoins.com