Old River

The Old River beat sits on the River Kennet within the Barton Court Estate, between Hungerford and Kintbury in Berkshire, where the Kennet runs not as a single channel but as a network of main river, carriers, and side streams twisting through old water meadows — one moment you're stalking a trout in a narrow carrier under overhanging sedge, the next casting to a steady rise in the main river. The Old River section is characterised by dense hawthorn trees lining the banks, making it particularly productive when terrestrials are on the water, and the weed-rich channels of the 'old' river hold good fish that can be encouraged into the open. The estate is designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), and the water runs with the clarity typical of a well-managed Berkshire chalk stream.

Brown and rainbow trout are present, with fish of three pounds and over regularly caught and a population of wild fish that increases year on year. The beat is rated suitable for beginners, and guided fishing is available on-site. Spring brings olive hatches combined with grannom and hawthorn; the mayfly follows, and through summer, caddis and adult olives return to the water in the evenings. Because the Kennet runs slightly cooler than most other chalk streams, the mayfly hatch tends to start a little later, producing a longer and more sustained hatch through late spring and early summer. As the season progresses, sedge, olive, and terrestrial hatches can be excellent, with beetles, ants, and hoppers providing good surface sport into late summer. Methods are restricted to single dry fly and traditional upstream nymph, with up to six rods on the water. On-site facilities include a brand-new shepherd's hut and a dedicated fishing hut for exclusive group use, with guided fishing, tackle hire, and catering from local chefs all available. Kintbury station sits just 64 metres from the fishery entrance, with additional parking available on Station Road or near the Dundas Arms.