Does anyone have a mod list/recommended mods that don't change to core gameplay too much? I modded TW3 a few years ago, but the only mod I can remember is the signposts mod and the Halk Hogan HD texture mod.

Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated, thanks! :)

Most mods for the GOTY edition are also available for the CE edition. Which you like is personal.

I prefer:
AQUA and/or Enhanced water
Brothers in Arms (bugfixes and restored content, the mod page on nexusmods lists the changes)
Fast launch (I don't recommend it for 1st time players. It skips the startup and loading videos)
Fast travel from anywhere
Fast travel pack (adds signposts)
No dirty lens effect
Quest and gwent checklist (excel file, but helps for a as complete as possible playthroough. Not updated for the Complete Edition)
Remove glare effect (Blood and Wine only)
Sell this F bolts or Sellable bolts
The Witcher 3 HD Reworked Project (for the GOTY/1.3x version only; CDPR included it in the Complete Edition)

All of the above are found on https://nexusmods.com