See [http://www.mumsnet.com/Talk/geeky_stuff/908247-Windows-7-Home-Premium-laptop?rnd=1265464692095 this thread] if 250 quid sounds like a reasonable price for a new Windows 7 widescreen laptop.
Only posted here because I've seen some people don't notice laptops getting discussed in the Geeky Stuff section, and post here when looking.