The Galaxy is a touring bike, the UK equivelent to a Trek 520. Some models come with MTB transmission, so flat-bar controls are no problem, but make sure the gear-count is compatible.
It is a do-able conversion, and not unsual amongst older touring club riders.
With drop bars, the usual cruising position is on the top of the brake levers (the tops). The drops are only used rarely, into headwinds. The bars can be repositioned, higher and nearer by swapping the stem. If you find the bike too long, you may just have a badly fitted (too large) frame.