Peak District is great. But I live there, I would say that wouldn't I?
You get much more house for your cash.
Less traffic (touristy spots like Castleton excepted) and it only takes 40 minutes from Buxton (less than 25 miles e/w) going cross country, with no traffic hold ups until you get close to the airport, and then at peak times only.
Only encountered snow-closed roads once this winter but there are several low-level alternatives available.
Half-hourly bus service to the airport, 20 hours a day from Buxton if you don't feel like driving, takes about an hour via Stockport.
Personally, I wouldn't live in the lowlands again. There's much more character up here in th' 'ills!
Best of luck
(typos)
[This message has been edited by cossack (edited 28 January 2001).]