buying a telescope

I'm thinking of buying my first telescope and was wondering if any of you could give me some advice on what brands or type of telescope i should go for.

I've done a bit of research myself and apparently the telescopes advertising big zoom levels arn't that good as everything will be blurred.

so if anyoen has any tips or information on which sort of telescope is good for a starting out it would be much appreciated, thanks.

The only advice I have to give is that if you are only looking to spend $150 or less then you should get a pair of binoculars instead. Cheap telescopes are cheap you can spend $100 on a telescope and be disappointed, but you can get a good pair of binoculars for that price.

Well im willing to spend about £500 GBP which is rougly $880 USD