Deciding where to study abroad UK

I want to study abroad the last semester of my sophomore year (I am a freshman), but I can decide where and I would love some advice. I am trying to decide between Stirling, Scotland (Uni of Stirling), and Reading, England (Uni of Reading).

From what I've read, I think stirling is the better school, and I'd love to go to Scotland because it looks amazing and very beautiful, and I have a friend and distant relatives nearby. However, I really want to explore Europe while I'm abroad and stirling is 5ish hours away just from London (I think) which would take extra time and money.

Reading seems like a good school and town as well, and its 30 min from london (I think), so easier to get to mainland Europe. I also have family friends in London. There are internships I'm trying to get my foot in the door for in england as well (I'm not going to specify) and making connections/ having experience living nearby will be extremely helpful.

I would love advice from anyone who lives in the UK or lives in either city or has gone to either school!