Yes - Apple TV uses 'Airplay' which basically mirrors what's on your device (ipod/ipad etc) onto the TV.
Another thing you could try which i had to do when using my laptop was use an ethernet cable rather than the wireless signal. So basically plug an ethernet cable into the slot in your laptop and the other end into the router itself. This might be a problem if the router is a considerable distance from your laptop and TV of course.
The signal strength is much stronger this way, although does seem strange that you've had no issues with the other services you use...
I loathed the service for the first few months but then as they got their shit together and improved their service i found it was a great experience although I'd have to say the picture on-screen isn't quite as good as say HD Sport with Sky, although it's pretty close. Secondly I don't always have 2 hours to watch a game, so used to love the fast forward on SKY, and I really miss that. The forward 30 sec button just doesn't cut it...
Good luck
Thanks for the info. The router is a bit far from the TV (there is actually a phone point next to the TV but the wiring is a bit dodgy and it's really slow when connected to this one - the best phone point is in another room), but yeah not had the same issues with other streaming services.
The thought now occurs that my partner has just got an Ipod Touch so the Apple TV thing may in fact be an option. Does Apple TV work with that too? I assume the Touch can use the same apps as Ipad or Iphone.