River Kennet – Rainsford Farm
Rainsford Farm is a predominantly shallow, stream-type stretch of the middle River Kennet near Thatcham. Run by Thatcham Angling Association, it’s a proper all-round coarse venue, with a big weir pool at the top and a cracking reputation for barbel.
Run by Thatcham Angling Association · checked 15 Oct 2026 · boundaries only partly described by the club
River Kennet
River Kennet – Rainsford Farm
Our river artwork — photos for this stretch are on the way
River level
Measured — Environment Agency
Newbury gauge
Nearest EA gauge we've matched — it isn't on this stretch, so levels on your peg will differ.
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We don't publish an "ideal level" — nobody can promise one. Flood water is dangerous: if it's up and coloured, stay well back from the edge. Open Newbury on Live River Levels
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The lowdown
- This is a varied bit of the Kennet, with many different types of swim to have a go at. It’s not just one long, featureless run.
- The water is predominantly shallow and stream-like, giving it that lively middle-river feel rather than a deep, steady glide.
- At the top of the venue sits a large weir pool. It’s a popular spot with association members, so expect this to be one of the best-known areas on the stretch.
- The association regards Rainsford Farm as a favourite for traditional barbel anglers. That says plenty about the character of the place.
- Barbel average about 8 lb here, with double-figure fish present. The association reports a best barbel of over 14 lb, too.
- Chub and silverfish are also present, making the venue suitable for all-round coarse anglers rather than just specimen hunters.
- Traditional barbel tactics are the obvious starting point. Look at the flow, work the crease and fish the likely holding areas around the weir pool.
- There’s room for a mixed approach as well. Silverfish and chub mean lighter tackle and a more mobile session can both make sense, depending on the swim.
- The stretch is on the east side of Chamberhouse Mill Farm, near Thatcham. Members have access to a private gated car park, which is a handy touch.
- Night fishing is available with the Silver or Gold senior permits. Night tickets run from 16 June to 15 June the following year.
Methods: Traditional barbel fishing is the headline act, with the shallow, stream-type water and weir pool offering plenty to explore. Chub and silverfish make it a good venue for more general coarse approaches, too.
Access & tickets
2026–2027 Bronze senior permit
Association membership permit.
£85 (as listed 15 Oct 2026 — check before you go)
2026–2027 Silver senior permit
Includes day and night fishing.
£125 (as listed 15 Oct 2026 — check before you go)
2026–2027 Gold senior permit
Includes day and night fishing.
£160 (as listed 15 Oct 2026 — check before you go)
Guest fishing pass
Day or 24-hour pass. Must be obtained before arrival.
£15 for a day or £25 for 24 hours (as listed 15 Oct 2026 — check before you go)
New-member joining fee
Payable when joining the association.
£10 (as listed 15 Oct 2026 — check before you go)
Permits and guest passes come from Thatcham Angling Association. Guest tickets must be obtained before arrival, and the sponsoring member must accompany the guest.
Fish the club names
barbel, chub
Key rules
- Guest tickets must be obtained before arrival.
- Members must carry their permit, photo card, rule book and current rod licence.
- Association bailiffs may inspect permits, licences and tackle.
- Alcohol and illegal substances are prohibited on the association’s waters.
- Littering is prohibited.
- The river’s normal close season applies.
- Membership is subject to the association’s approval process.
Coarse fishing on English rivers is closed from 15 March to 15 June inclusive. That's the law for coarse fish on rivers — it's not a club rule, and game-fishing seasons work differently.
GOV.UK — Freshwater rod fishing rules: when and where you can fishWhere it is
Pins mark the access postcode each club gives, not the bank itself. Exact boundary map: see rights holder.
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