In my experience, boot choices are objective. I've had Altbergs, Danners, Lowa's, Matterhorns, Hanwag's....you name it i've tried it.
Whatever your choice, look after them, treat them well and they should never let you down. Treat the leather to a bit of Neatisfoot oil when they are new (not too much). Rub it in a couple of times. This softens the leather, but not excessively (you want them to be easier to bend without compromising support). Try to use a good quality wax polish (Kiwi only in my opinion). When you start to feel comfortable in the boots, start treating them with Nikwax Aqueous Wax (available in various colours and neutral) This gives a magnificent water resistant finish (water just beads and runs off!).
Now this is where i hang myself. Goertex boots are only effective if you look after them properly. Some Special Forces guys i've worked with say they only use Gortex lined boots in extreme cold weather. But, even if you choose Gortex lined (or sympatex, or whatever) USE THE Aqueous WAX! Yes you heard me right. Even if your boots have a waterproof membrane, use the aqueos wax religiously.
Why? i hear you ask. Well imagine if you had a gortex jacket on and wore a soaking wet leather coat over the top of it with a soaking wet fleece between the two. Do you think the Gortex would be effective? Trust your leather and keep it treated. If you have £100 budget, i'd recommend Danner Arcadia's (Insulated and gortex lined) or Lowa Patrol Boots (no Gortex, just insulation) or if you want to keep your money in the country, buy Alt-Bergs. £50-£75 budget, i'd recommend Pro-boots (Thermal and Gortex) or a good pair of Magnums. Try to avoid cheap issue combat boots, once they are worn-in, the soles have worn down and as they are a directly moulded sole, they cannot be replaced and will have to be binned. All the above boots can be re-soled.
Remember, Up to a standard, not down to a price!