Hi stephanation, I would certainly say Coinbase is by far the easiest method to purchase either Bitcoin, Ethereum and Litecoin. The top three (in my opinion) at the moment that I feel everyone should have a chunk of - no matter the size of chunk. Here is a link to Coinbase and if you use it and then make a purchase, you should get about $10 free after the first $100 spent. https://www.coinbase.com/join/56470a4c8331aa7c100001dc
I also get $10 worth too for referring you so Thanks in advance if you take the plunge! Once you have some crypto (either of the three mentioned) you can then move it into an exchange of some sorts (Bittrex I find to be a good choice) and then you can purchase which ever Crypto currency is available such as Verge (XVG i think it is). Ripple is another big winner in the long run.
Here is a website I have involvement with that has many pages discussing Crypto items, you might find it interesting and helpful. https://www.hodlthemoon.com/
Good Luck and jump on board whilst BTC is below £10k