TJF97,
Mate, I'm 28 in October, however I don't have a significant other, so wasn't an issue. Read a post by 'Pilot Pete' about his story, very inspirational.
If you plan to get a PPL for UK use then learn in the UK just for the primacy issue (things learned first will stay with you). Be aware that the UK summer, although crappy in places still offers the best chance you have of attaining your licence with minimal distruption due to weather. Also closer to home the beter, you have a lot to remember, a intensive course does offer you the chance to be immersed in flying.
In answer to your questions:
USA;
1) EFT - I contacted them last year, no repsonse, not impressed as I was looking at their prof pilot scheme.
UK;
1) Stapleford Flying Club - I looked at them too when I lived in London as they were one of the closest to me, decided against it when I looked into the USA. Good tie-ins with Astraeus, but as long as no 'flip-flops' fly into buildings in the next couple of years the industry should be bouyant enough to pay for Type Ratings for new pilots. However you aren't interesed in going that much further as yet.
2) Midland Air Training, Coventry - Can't comment, no experience, just do a search and bear in mind for every good comment on a place there are 2 negative, just that way of the world. However I do beleive 'where there is smoke there is fire' so do your homework. In-Laws and PPL in 3 weeks, are you a pain junkie?