The canal system around Birmingham has undergone major refurbishment over the last few years and is certainly NOT a bad idea.

Also you could investigate Worcestershire's Alvechurch, Tardebigge, Stoke Wharf areas. Bromsgrove folk festival takes place in July each year and the venue is near to the canal, at Stoke Prior (I think, there's Stoke Prior, Stoke Pound and Stoke Wharf all the in same area and I'm old and get confused). Spectacular views and good beer. Not that I would know about the beer of course !