I'd aim for direct too, rather than scud running between BHX and EMA's airspace. EMA are usually pretty good or if not, go north and get into that nice big patch of class G early and climb to fl100 all the way down to Bury St Edmonds. Lots of options for a radar service too without bothering the busier fields going your way.
If military a/c float your boat, route via Lakenheath (F-15's) and Mildenhall (KC-135's, KC10's, C130's) for a little look. Lakenheath provide a good radar service too and always amusing hearing that American drawl on the radio, whilst trying to pronounce some of the local towns !!.
