You have quite a bit of research to do. Ham band repeaters (receivers are very different) and tend to be in two types - small local repeaters - these are the ones that are in the 430 and the 438 bands - they send on the lower one and listen for users on the other one. Many are in people's houses or perhaps where they work - often not very high so not much range. Ones you find in the 433MHz section are area repeaters, run usually by groups, not individuals - and they might cover 25-30 miles. They're also in the VHF band too - in the 145Mhz band. You need analogue repeaters, digital ones sound like a circular saw on a non-digital radio.
Have a look at this site -=
https://ukrepeater.net this will let you find the ones closest to you and give you what you need to listen. You don't need tones to listen.
Your real snag is that your current skill level is a bit basic - so if you buy complicated radios, you'll get into a mess. Do some reading and maybe look up your local ham radio club and go to see them for advice - they're always willing to help.
