Time to upgrade some of my equipment. I'm no more than an intermediate level cook so I don't want to spend a fortune, but I do need to get some new, decent knives for the kitchen.

* What brands would you recommend (again, not GBP100+ uber-fashionable Japanese knives, something a little more practical)?
* What types are your must haves?

Thanks!

PS I'd prefer something I can buy in the UK but I will be in the US later this year so could easily wait to get something special.