I spent 4 years in Sheffield, it’s not great.
You could probably cover all the legal trails in the Dark Peak in one loop given sufficient fitness, and they’re overated, most of the decents are about as much fun/technical as riding down the stairs from our flat to the car park.
Wokingham isn’t bad actualy,
Chilterns for a ‘natural’ day out on bridleways,
Swinley for when everywhere else is mashed,
Tunnel Hill, Cesars Camp, Porrisge Pots for night rides.
Surrey hills close enough for a day out.
M4 to South Wales
Wages are higher (so more bling for bikes)
But I’d still prefer to be in the Lakes.