I'd say that if you want small quick folding with excellent stiffness and riding characteristics, the Birdy is hard to beat. You get full suspension, good components, and light weight at a comparable price. And you don't have to dismantle anything.

The engineering and build quality are fantastic, which is probably why Japan is their best market.

If you are going to England anyway and was thinking of picking up a bike as an afterthought, they have a better selection of Birdy bikes and accessories over there. My only gripe with the Birdy is the lackluster support by the importer. However...as they are officially represented in the US, parts would be less of a problem than with the Mezzo and there are new dealers appearing that seem to be serious about promoting the product. Hopefully more interest will goose the importer into improving things.