I'm nearing the end of my PPL with them. The airfield itself is very nice and has a lot of life about it at weekends with some interesting aircraft. Pretty normal to be in the circuit with a Spitfire. The main runway 20 and 02 is long and wide. The approach on 02 can be a bit tricky with strong updrafts from some trees.
If it isn't too busy then the radio service is usually pretty relaxed and casual.
North Weald Flight Training is ok. The current fuel surcharge is £15 per hour on top of the quoted prices on their website. Some instructors are LAPL only.
The customer service could be better. You honestly would be best booking a trial flight on their website then discussing your situation with the assigned instructor. Most of the instructors do seem to be very professional and friendly.
The planes are varied. I have only been flying the 152s. The standard of each varies wildly from one that is more and more keeps breaking on and isn't being fixed, and one that is immaculate.
And even though you are spending 200+ per hour, they charge you for tea and coffee and even water!
Once I have my license, I will be getting booked in with Stapleford for night rating and maybe just an hour with one of their instructors to get a feel for the place.
I would recommend giving North Weald a go just because it is such a nice historic airfield.
Circuit height is 1200ft on QNH. Stansted is at 1500ft of which NW is just on the very edge of that class D.