If i bought a laptop what would i have to do to go online? any routers needed etc

If you have an ISP?- Do you get internet already- Then get a Wireless network router from them or a shop up to you

Can also get USB dongles that allow you to go online anywhere

Get a broadband package from BT or Talktalk. You usually get a router etc. with the package. It should be fairly self explanatory.

Option B is mobile internet via a dongle. I guess it would be slower and more expensive than normal braodband, try the carphone warehouse as a starting point.