In the middle of everywhere
Cannock Chase has some cracking trails. Then there's THE DOG and THE MONKEY. Follow the Dog is a red trail, demanding but within my skill set, though I have hit a few trees and parted company with the bike on a few jumps. It's that 'You've been framed' moment and hope nobody has got the camera out. The Monkey is a black trail, advanced and does get the sphincter twitching. Only to be attempted when your with someone to call the Air Ambulance.
Go up a bit further north to Ashbourne and your in the Peaks. Cromford mill to Parsley Hay on the White Peak Trail. Buxton down to Matlock Bath going over High Tor. Hard riding but the views are spectacular.