I get the feeling that UK tax rates are somewhat better than the other big economies in Europe, but guess that some of the newer EU entrants might be worth a look if they have suitable infrastructure. My wife feels that the Canary Islands would be an ideal situation Must see if I can get my friend Mr Google to find a site listing tax rates across Europe.
The idea of having a UK Limited company and then residing in another country is interesting. If you do go down the UK company route while residing in the UK be careful not to pay a low wage and high dividends as the IR are starting to crack down on that type of thing for small companies. Pretty unfair when larger companies can do it though !
Switzerland has no capital gains tax unless it is your sole income. Even then, after all taxes and social security is taken into account you are looking at about 25% in Basel. Zurich is lower, Zug even lower. But the place to be is in the Italian speaking part on the lakes...
And despite what everyone says - it is cheaper than London to live.