Thanks everyone for the latest replies. It's great for me to hear opinions from both sides of the fence. Commuting is something I'll never know whether it works for me or not until I try it, as I've never had to so far. But I can't say the idea of it appeals! That leads me onto the house prices anywhere near LHR compared to the North of England... but that's just how it is.
Sounds like from a lifestyle point of view, long haul and part time could be the way forward, IF it would work with family life. Therefore I think this is a decision I could only make with full backing of my partner, who at the moment is dubious; hence why I am doing the research.
Could anyone give me an idea of how many days off is common between trips? Or do you have a minimum number of days off at BA per month? I'd also be keen to find out what the sick pay/income protection benefit is if this is acceptable to ask for...
I will probably be in touch at some point with some more questions to those who have kindly offered to give me some more advice. Thanks again all.