So I had a look around and there are actually a few people who make perfectly serviceable hurdy-gurdies that cost not that much.

And so I just went and bought a proper one from this gentleman:

http://www.vrabelhurdygurdy.com/instrument/

People on the internets say he makes perfectly serviceable, no-frills hurdy-gurdies, which explains the price.

So hey, taneq, if you're reading- thanks for the heads up, which started me on the search for an affordable hurdy-gurdy. I'll let my neighbours know it's all the fault of someone on the internet :P