Residency

The best option if you are in the UK is to go to the embassy. We did this, filled in the paperwork (available online as well as translated guidance) went with all other documents ie passports etc. No appointment just go and queue, we went with a Spanish friend but they would only let us in. The queues were long but a lot easier than waiting for months or paying the €250 each the agent wanted and flying into Spain for an appointment booked months in advance. The cost? Train fare and about €15 each.