I was very happy with Stapleford for my PPL, but that was really down to the instructor that I had and he isn't there anymore. I did fly with a few other instructors though and they were all very good. The senior guys there are very good too and approachable, but i do agree with the comments on the non flying staff being up their own ass.
Another place I would recommend is Earls Colne, but again that is down to a very good instructor Nigel Wilson, who I did my taildragger and complex with and have since done my renewals with.
Every instructor can teach you something, go along do a flight or 2 and see how you get on, it really is a personal preference.