Did my first solo on 04L in summer 2000 and despite forgetting half my checks downwind, managed to pull off a greaser!
Personally I preferred 22L because the circuit was much tighter and it was quite easy to see where everyone else was, although after a 2 weeks honeymoon I produced one of my worst landings on 22L, flaring at about 10ft - ouch!
I never liked doings circuits on 04L because it was so wide out that I had some trouble working out where everyone was. Didn't think the pylons were much of a hazard following 04L departure. However, I do remember the windshear though and scaring the horses on very short final!!