Steel frame commuter for hauling the family around

I'd love some thoughts (or offers) on a good bike for hauling a young (0-4) family around. I was riding a Triban RC500 until a car pulled out in front of me and I snapped the frame on his bonnet (!).

My thoughts were leaning towards trying to get a second hand, steel frame, touring (maybe?) style bike - I was previously commuting a 14km round trip daily on some fairly poor London cycle lanes, and we have a rear rack mounted kids seat (also looking at getting a FollowMe tandem to tow the eldest along any busy traffic sections).

Last night I walked away from what turned into a very shady deal to buy a Genesis Equilibrium (via Gumtree - I know I should know better!), I wondered if anyone had thoughts of either what to look out for or offers of a suitable bike (or frame that I could transfer components from my broken bike to).

I think the Surly's look brill though I don't think they're in my price range (I'm really looking <£500, preferable c. £300), the Genesis Equilibrium and Day One's sound like a potential fit, maybe a Dawes Galaxy (had one sale already fall through on one of these). I'm around 177cm tall, so broadly I think a frame size of around 54/56 is likely to suit, appreciating that different shaped bikes may mean other sizes are ok.

Any advice most appreciated

Hello, I may be able to help

I have a Claude Butler Dalesman, which was the same frame set as the Galaxy, that might suit you.
631 frame and 520 forks- battery and needs some new bits for the drive train but is rideable as is.
I think we are roughly the same height, so it should fit you.

Let me know if you are interested.

Did you see @psg1ben s Genesis Day One?
https://www.lfgss.com/conversations/3362­71/#comment16379433
Seems to tick quite a few boxes.

Only thing to say is that if you intend to use a trailer, the rear axle will need to be repla ed for something longer.

Hi, I'm looking to move a Trek multitrack, big tyre clearance, canti - vbrake, not a full bike but have most parts, basically a poor man's surly crosscheck, it's an everyday beater, let me know if you want more info