I endorse what Pandalet said. It took me 63 hours including the skills test over 2 years (2004 - 2005) as that was the only way I could fit it in and it cost me £16800 all in
. I could have done it in less time and money if I'd kept to under 9 months and flown twice a week or more.
As for what to do after getting your PPL(H) I aim to fly 15 to 20 hours per year for pleasure (much less in 2007 - bu**er of a year!). I know people who spend more than that on golf or clay shooting!
Whatever you decide to do - enjoy it!
Ian.