The Old Mill, Ramsbury Beat

on the River Kennet

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Once the home of the forefather of dry fly fishing, FM Halford, this beautiful stretch of chalk stream would have seen him refine his dry fly art. The beat starts just below the historic Mill House with its beautiful gardens and large mill pool. As you continue upstream the gardens broaden out into a wilder landscape with water meadows and reed beds, perfect conditions for extensive bird life and super fishing. In 2020 this section was part of a bold river restoration project run by Action For The River Kennet (ARK), with pinch points, bends and restoration of the original gravel bed in the upper section.

Rods
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Difficulty
Beginner (1/5)
Price
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Length
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Stocking & Fish Species

Brown Trout

Rules & Policies

Catch & Release
EA Rod License Required
Dogs Allowed
Ghillie Available
Ghillie Required
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Fishing Methods

upstream dry fly
upstream nymph
Wading Allowed
Bank Fishing Only
Double Bank

Amenities

Small hut and seating area

More on the River Kennet

The River Kennet is one of England’s most significant chalk streams. The upper and middle reaches offer classic, gin-clear chalk stream fly fishing for wild brown trout and grayling, characterized by…

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many rods are allowed on The Old Mill, Ramsbury Beat at any one time?
The rod limit for The Old Mill, Ramsbury Beat is listed on the beat page — check before booking, as limits vary by season and fishery preference.
What species can I expect to catch on The Old Mill, Ramsbury Beat?
The Old Mill, Ramsbury Beat holds Brown Trout. The water is unstocked, relying entirely on the wild population.
Do I need to wade, or can I fish from the bank?
Wading arrangements for The Old Mill, Ramsbury Beat are listed on the beat page — contact the provider if you need to confirm before arriving.
Is a ghillie available, and do I need one?
No ghillie service is listed for The Old Mill, Ramsbury Beat — contact the provider directly if you'd like informal guidance on your first visit.
Where do I park, and how do I access the beat?
Parking details for The Old Mill, Ramsbury Beat are shown on the beat page, including a map pin where one is provided. Always confirm access arrangements with the provider when you book.
What tackle should I bring?
The Old Mill, Ramsbury Beat is fished by upstream dry fly and upstream nymph. The fly recommendations section on the The Old Mill, Ramsbury Beat page suggests the most effective patterns month by month.
What happens if conditions are poor on the day I've booked?
River conditions can change quickly, especially after rain. Contact the provider as early as possible if you're concerned about The Old Mill, Ramsbury Beat — many are happy to offer an alternative date if the river is unfishable. Cancellation and rescheduling policies vary by provider; check the notes on the booking page or ask when you book.
Are dogs allowed on the beat?
Dogs are not listed as permitted on The Old Mill, Ramsbury Beat. Check the Beat Rules section on the page or contact the provider before bringing a dog, as policies can vary by season and stretch of the River Kennet.