Hi Nick,
There is a lot of variables in the questions that you have raised, so it may be best to start off with what you want to achieve before you go to far down any one path here.
Some of the things to consider is, how much time can you put in to study, are you ok at self study or do you need a classroom environment to assist you, do you want to carry more than one passenger and fly into controlled airports? How far can your budget stretch and is aviation going to be a pastime or are you aiming for a commercial career.
Write down a few answers to some of these and you may then work out which is best for you.
Hope all goes well,
Cheers