I'm interested in ditching my modem/router currently supplied by virgin to use my own router. The virgin has an option for modem only mode which automatically turns off all router and wireless connectivity.

I'm pretty much green when it comes to routers but I'm looking for something that is a step up from the usual home stuff you get. Wireless, if possible, would be a good extra but I do have an old wireless router kicking about that could do the job thanks to some clever blokes who put out custom firmware for them.

So, what are my options and what kind of prices am I looking at? I'd like something that is robust, for sure and I'm not afraid of having to learn something new. It will, hopefully, be in place for a very long time and will have to be sufficient to cope with increasing demands. There are tons of you network gurus on here, I think, so can I have your ideas please

Normally I tell any home user to get a DG834 since they just work.  By the sound sounds of it you want something a bit more configurable so I'd recommend a Draytek.

This should do the job. £125

http://www.draytek.co.uk/products/vigor2110.html
http://www.misco.co.uk/productinfo/productinfo?productCode=127952&affiliate=2459&cm_mmc=CSE-_-google-_-networking%20&%20Communications-_-127952&CAWELAID=367722480

If you want something configurable just get an in expensive router and put DD-WRT on it?

I'm running virgin in modem mode in to a Buffalo router at 30 Meg currently and has no issues what so ever.. I'll get the model number, but as long as it run DD-WRT you'll be fine..

I also have a couple of other access points around the house hanging off that..

With my current set up I will, very soon, need more than the 4 ports most routers offer. I'll be eventually doing a lot via my IP network hence the need for a good router, one that wont struggle to stream 2 HD videos and have computers/consoles doing their thing at the same time.

Would it be worthwhile just getting switches off one of the routers you guys suggested?

The best thing I can suggest if working on a budget but want to control device load is use dedicated devices..

Use a gigabit switch for your network, then the router only needs to control the internet connection, it doesn't have to manage the network packets too. Personally have my wireless N on a separate device as finding a device that is a good router and a good wireless N device is difficult and if one part dies you only need to replace that part, although I still use wireless G (108mbps) on my router without any issues.

Modem: The netgear thing Virgin provide (running in modem mode)
Router & G AP: Buffalo WHR-HP-G54 (DD-WRT)
AP1 (5Ghz N): Airport Extreme
AP 2 (G/N): D-Link DIR-615 (DD-WRT)
8 Port Netgear Gigabit switch