I've had springers all my life - currently just 2, Jack (9) and Dexter (4).
I train and work them for shooting and it is essential for the wellbeing of the dog that their tails are docked. The skin on their tails is thin and when working their tails go 10 to the dozen. If they're not docked, the tails get ripped to shreds on the brambles.
It is legal for their tails to be docked provided it is done by a vet, who will require evidence that the pups are bred for working (even if they don't actually end up in a working home). The breeder should have a certificate from the vet proving that they have been docked legally.
If you are looking to get one as a pet, I would go for an undocked one, without too many FTCh's in the breeding. That way you're less likely to get a "hot" one that's too hyper for a non-working home.
They love lots of exercise, but it's not true that they must have lots.
Mine get 2 45min runs every day and that keeps them fit enough to work all day in the shooting season.
They're cheap to run too - I feed mine on Dr John Silver at £9.99 for 15Kg and they thrive on it. They also have few genetic problems.
Keep the hair on their ears trimmed and you should have no problems.