The plan was simple – meander lazily along the canal, take in views of the stunning Leicestershire countryside and stop for a pub lunch before heading back. Of course we knew the steering of the canal boat – Foxcub – would take some getting used to.

And we were prepared for sudden weather changes, armed with sunglasses, cagoules and umbrellas.

But there were a few things we didn't bank on… the bank we were to end up stuck on, for one.

When we arrived at Foxton Boat Services, we were given a full brief on the boat, from starting her up to clearing debris from the propeller and what to do if we fell in the water.

Soon we were sent on our way, with a helpful map pointing out all the landmarks.

We chose to head towards Kibworth, with plans to stop at the pub at Fleckney.

There are no locks to go through so we sat back in anticipation of a relaxing ride.

My partner was appointed captain and chief engineer and after a bit of zig-zagging across the canal he had mastered the art of steering.

Soon we were sailing along at a heady 4mph, enjoying the canal boat etiquette – wave at all passers-by, stick to the right when other boats come along and try not to hit them with your boat.

The boat has everything you need for a day out – fridge, cooker, sink, toilet and shower, plus a large seating area at the front with canvas covering.

As there were only four of us, we chose to sit at the back with the captain and watch the idyllic countryside views slip past.

Our first challenge arrived when we agreed to let Mum have a go at steering.

It was going so well – until we ended up in a prickly thorn bush hanging from the canal bank, with Mum narrowly avoiding decapitation when we headed straight for a large branch.

With Mum relegated to tea-making duties, we were back on our way, thinking we had plenty of time to stop for lunch.

Our second challenge came when a slight misjudgement of steering saw us wedged against the bank.

No amount of throttle or pushing off from the bank with the pole provided would shift us.

With the boat listing to one side, we started to have visions of having to call another boat to rescue us, but after what seemed like a lifetime, we were able to move off from the bank and quickly move on to task number three – Saddington Tunnel

It's about 200 metres long and not much wider than the boat so much concentration was needed to make sure we didn't hit the walls all the way along.

By this time, our stomachs were rumbling and although the pub wasn't far off, we were conscious that it had taken us quite some time to get half way.

We decided to eat on the go and concentrate on finding somewhere to turn round.

Before we went on this trip, a colleague of mine had warned to leave an hour to turn around.

Now while the actual turning round bit is quite straightforward, finding a spot in the canal which was wide enough to accommodate us was a bit more long-winded.

We made the mistake of attempting it in a spot we thought was big enough, only to find we almost got stuck again.

We finally managed to turn around near Kibworth top lock and headed for home.

The journey back was a bit less eventful, except for a short shower when everyone scuttled inside while I was left steering Foxcub home.

Looking back on the day, it had all the ingredients for a great family day out: Trying something new? Check.

Getting out in the countryside? Check. Entertainment and relaxation? Hmmm… check.

It is £140 to hire the boat on weekdays during the off-peak season but prices can rise to £180 on weekends in peak season.

It may seem a lot but if there are a few of you, that can be split.

I would definitely recommend it as a day out – just leave plenty of time and make sure the best driver does most of the steering.