...but which one?

Good, albeit rainy, afternoon all (at least it is here in Wales, UK)!

I, like many others in the 'beginners questions' section, am looking at purchasing my first 'proper' camera to get into photography.

Unlike many others, I've done a fair amount of reading around, watching videos etc. to get an idea of what should suit my needs and, ultimately, what camera type (and more specifically brand/model) I should plumb for.

My knowledge is currently limited to cheap, old, point-and-shoot cameras and smartphone cameras, just to give you an indication of my existing knowledge of cameras and their use (I've delved into terminology/functions etc. in a bit more detail - I'd like to say I'm familiar with the theory, not the practise).

I've whittled it down to a DSLR (or similar) for around the £500-700 mark. I had largely considered the FZ1000 as a beginner's camera as it gives many of the zoom lengths needed for most applications in one, single package. I've veered away from it recently, however, as I feel if photography 'tickles my fancy' I would end up doing away with it only to spend similar money again on a DSLR (or similar) down the line. I can't gauge how 'future-proof' a 1" sensor would be, though I think it's fair to assume it'd be less so than an APS-C sensor. In terms of cost-effectiveness, I believe long-term I would be better off with an entry-mid range DSLR which, for the same money as an FZ1000 + future DSLR upgrade, I would be able to get something decent with a couple of lenses. This information is coupled with the inherent poorness of bridge/small sensor cameras in low light situations.

I digress... I'm focusing (pun not intended) far more on cameras such as Nikon's D5500 or D7100 - from what I've seen both are similarly priced. One is obviously newer which works in its favour but the D7100 is still a very strong choice, from what I've seen.

I wouldn't particularly need a touch screen, per se, though I can see the benefit of having one. Similarly, I doubt I would need two turn-wheels but I can see the benefit...

Do you lovely ladies and gentlemen have any suggestions about which route to take? I'd most likely utilise the 'kit lens' to get a grasp of ISO/Aperture/SS and their interplay before purchasing new lenses (I'd probably get either a 35mm f/1.8 lens or something more telephoto, 18-200mm/70-300mm).

Apologies for the essay and thank you in advance for taking the time to (a) read this and, (b) comment!

Diolch yn fawr (Thanks a lot)!