the giant anthem is very good, if a little short on travel, the trance has 4.2" which maybe better if you ever get to wales..
they both ride real good, due to a low centre of gravity, corner very well.
kona's are often underated (just cus' they dont use the latest tech.) but you dont get much for a grand..
trek are worth looking at..
you are limited with a grand, theres gona be a trade off somewhere, so look for a good frame & shock, not the best brakes/gears etc. you can always upgrade.
with giant being such a huge company, they can offer dam good value, & bloody good bikes, id always go for a descent frame design over anything else. I dont even sell them anymore! hows that for honesty!!??