The UK has yet to come into the 21st century.
13 exams! Unbelieveable. It's basically...."we don't know if you know your stuff so we will test you anyway..."
As Puntosaurus laid out, the only breathing space you will get is for the skills test (flight test).
Also, the theory can be done one of two ways. Integrated (full-time) or modular (part-time).
One of the Pprune supporters (Bristol Ground School) have a modular theory course on offer whereby you can do distance learning then spend two weeks with them prior to the exams - its all on the website.
Cost of manuals, etc £1900.
For what its worth.