I suppose it depends what you're after. I've been in Flitwick for about 10 years now and don't find it particularly offensive. Granted it is a bit of a commuter town but it's only a few minutes out into the countryside for some good running and cycling routes. There are some nicer places around...
Or you could look at somewhere like Flitwick, Ampthill or surrounding villages. About a 20 minute drive from MK and a train direct from Flitwick to Brighton.