Vedeneyev
there really is no choice (cost aside)
Cost aside, I agree with you.
But cost and comparative cost will, unfortunately, be factors most of us have to take into account.
That said, I know my own weaknesses (most of them anyway) and if there'd been a Lightning available, I would probably have ended up going for it. I'd have started off being 'sensible' and deciding I couldn't justify the cost, and then been so pleased with myself for being so sensible that, half an hour later, I'd have rewarded myself with a flight of a lifetime.
I still think that, 'bang for buck' (KDY's question), the Hunter is the best option but, if cost isn't a consideration, then the Lightning.
KDY
my flying history has been limited to light pistons and gliders
If you haven't done any aeros either as pilot or passenger, you'll enjoy your fast jet flight more if you do some in a piston-engine aircraft first. It won't give you the sustained high g of a fast jet, but will give you useful experience of what to expect.
Ultimate High at Kemble (mentioned by Trevelyan) would be a good choice. They are specialists in performance flying and the instructors are mainly ex RAF fast jet. I've not flown there myself, but they are the most consistently recommended on PPRuNe and all reports I've had direct from friends who've flown there are glowing with praise.
Hope we get some input from mil/ex mil pilots. It would be good to get their advice on which option you should choose.
FL