Ok, you guys seem to like the Linksys range but with so many other manufacturers, does anyone else have a recommendation for me (about to take the plunge).

Linksys is the best, very simple! it's a division of CISCO which is the world leader in switch technology and even have their own exams they are that good!

Just stay away from netgear!

I heard that the make "Buffalo" is supposed to be pretty good - you can check them out Buffalo Homepage