Not sure how available Surly's can be in the UK, but I'd go with an Ogre if you want the best of both worlds. My wife and I have them, and they are hugely capable. My only caveat is that I think the Ogre is under-geared for me. I'm no tree-trunk-legged pedal masher, but its pretty easy to spin out at 20mph. The Ogre comes with a 32T chainring, and I'd like to swap mine for a 36, which would be just about right. Other than that, a very capable and comfortable bike. I have Jones Loop H-bars on mine.