Have you thought of trying Pargliding or Hang-gliding?
As pure flying goes you cannot beat it. Soaring in Wave is often possible so you can still get the view above the clouds.
Its relatively inexpensive but can be frustrating due to the British weather. The wind limits during the early training periods especially so.
If you fancy powered flying, then the new batch of lightweight powered trikes mean you don't need a PPL.
There are lots of clubs around the country and Darley Moore in Derbyshire offers aerotowing too.
Whatever you choose, good luck. Enjoy.
Airways Airsports