Non-Reving on Virgin

[Badgerfan]

I was fortunate enough to come across 2 standby tickets and am thinking about taking the wife on a trip for our anniversary. I have never been to the U.K. before and was looking for some info. What is the best time of year to fly over there since we'll be standby. We don't have to go this summer, is the fall still a good time with the weather? What are some must see things that you all would recommend if we had about 4-5 days there? Are there any airline discount hotels or attractions that I should look into? What would be the best way to visit Paris if we had the time? Any first hand experiences and phone contacts would be appreciated.