IIRC, (using v2.33 Emperor) I built a worker first - takes longer than normal C3C. Then the worker helps the city grow while you're waiting for the settler to build - remember, you lose more pop. than you're used to. I don't think I built the settler for a short while, until London was bigger. Good thing is, all the other civs are slow as well.
Some tips that I recall - build a carrack early to meet the other civs and trade techs. And, English don't have rubber - you'll have to have a city in Africa West Coast or Central/South America or hope to trade (annoying). Oh, and if Germans/French/Romans or other civ is getting too big, don't be afraid to start a war and get others to join in - you're very well protected on your own island.
Great Mod!
