I love this type of discussion.
I do want to say three things...
#1--Ally, you apologized for saying that there are big difference between UK and US golf. I know I kind of paraphrased you, but nevertheless...don't apologize. I think you are spot on. Perhaps those differences aren't limited to yardage markers and the like. Aren't most great US courses private, aren't most great UK courses public (at least to a degree). It seems like most US courses love highly manicured courses, while perhaps many of the UK courses like a more natural look. Could we then add fast and firm vs. lush? I think I could go on and on and on about this. Anyway, no need to apologize as you are correct.
#2--Whatever way you want to play the game...more power to you as long as it is within the rules of the game. Have fun, enjoy it in the manner that you enjoy most.
#3--The great Melvyn Hunter Morrow once articulated this exact distance type of argument this way to me. When you play catch in your back yard, do you have to know the exact yardage or do you just throw the ball after you eyeball it? When you are stopping your car at a stop sign, do you have to know the exact yardage or do you just eyeball it? Golf is the same. Perhaps the first few times you do it (not use yardage markers, GPS, etc) you will be off a bit, but you will get better at it over time. Like driving or playing catch. I think this touches base on something Brent said, his eyeballs aren't all that accurate. Brent, if you care to...keep at it...it can be satisfying and fun.
But again, to each their own. I think playing both ways is fun. Give both a try and see what you like. Hell, play hickories with no distance aids and play modern equipment with distance aids. Makes sense doesn't it.
Later!