Well the best bet is to get down to your local highstreet retailer. Not saying we're going to ask their advice or buy from them but you need to get the feel of them.
I'd try both Canon and Nikon, as well as Pentax. The right camera for you is not always the same for everyone. Ensure it is comfortable and feels good. You spend a long time behind it, holding it and carrying it. Make sure you get to take some pictures using the basic kit stuff. No point testing a £700 lens if you can't afford it.
I have a Canon EOS 350D with Canon 18-55 f/4-f/5.6 USM, 70-200 f/2.8 L USM Telephoto and a 35-350 f/4-f/5.6 L USM. I also have a Canon 2x extender for the L lenses and have recently got a carbon fibre monopod. That small selection has set me back just shy of £1,800 before buying the photo printer, case, memory cards etc.. so its an expensive habit!