Hi
We've just done the Leicester ring, from North Kilworth Marina!, but went anti-clockwise, the thinking being to get the hardest part over first!
ie Leicester itself, with big heavy locks and some unsavoury areas. We went from Kilby Bridge to Birstall in a day, but with hindsight we could have stopped over in Leicester at either Castle Gardens or the newer moorings at Friars Mill, and set off early next day to avoid the lowlife at Limekiln.
Other than that it is a great trip, especially on the Soar, and we really enjoyed it- you will too especially if you have time to take it easy.
Cheers