I would recommend Shoreham as the place to train for your PPL, one of the oldest airfields in the country.
France is just a short trip away, France for lunch and home in time for tea.
Also join a club where they will let you take the aircraft away for the day without a minimum hours requirement, i.e. you only pay for the time you fly.
Also join a club with a good social life were members are encouraged to meet.
The club should make you feel welcome, so turn up unannounced and see how they treat you.
I would recommend The Flying Hut based at Shoreham - CAA approved club. With a welcome atmosphere, even the instructors make the tea and coffee !!!!!
Good luck with whatever you decide - remeber flying should be fun and the club you choose should help to make it fun, god knows you pay enough for it.