I ride there most weeks, have been riding it ss for last two autumn/winters, a mate had a 29er and thought it was well suited to pines. I think you will enjoy it ss and if you see a gap in the trees off the red trail take yourself off down it as you will find lots of good xc race routes which can be tight and twisty and good fun. It’s not very hilly compared to Peak District for example but there are bits of gradient so not flat as a pancake.
Robhenry is right hit it with some speed and just carry your momentum and it is good for getting out on, enjoy