First thing is that you need to make a site that people really like. In fact, they need to like it so much that they'll bookmark you and tell their friends about you. Once you get to that point, then you'll need to come up with a good marketing plan to get the initial people to your site (which then tell their friends, etc). Link building is one way, seo, traditional marketing, buying banners, pay per click... the list is nearly endless.
Use this tips on this page and those useful lists to promote your website: http://www.basic-directory.com/get_backlinks_usefull_free_lists_and_seo_tools.html
You need to have unique good content on your site. Add your site to various directories and do article submision of your site. Even you can do social bookmarking of your website it will help you in gaining traffic.
So should I set up a facebook for my site to try and gain visitors. I have heard of people doing it but not sure if its worth it
facebook is a type of social media optimization... may these posts will help u: http://www.seo.com/blog/facebook-to-promote-your-business/ http://www.seomoz.org/blog/facebook...nity-to-reach-powerful-users-at-very-low-cost
I suggest you to get high number of - twitter followers - facebook friends - stumbleupon followers - digg friends. If you able to cross 4-5 figure number of friends or followers there before you start the blog, I'm sure you will make your site very popular!