County Lock facts for kids
County Lock is a special kind of water gate, called a lock, located in the heart of Reading, Berkshire, England. It's part of the Kennet and Avon Canal, a historic waterway managed by the Canal & River Trust. Just past the lock, you'll find a tricky part of the river known as Brewery Gut, famous for its fast-moving water.
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Discovering County Lock: Reading's River Gateway
County Lock helps boats move smoothly along the River Kennet. It's in the busy town centre of Reading. This lock is unique because it has the smallest "rise" of all the locks on the Kennet. Boats only go up or down about 30 centimeters (1 foot) here. The main river flows over a weir next to the lock. Another part of the Kennet river goes under the Bridge Street Roundabout.
How County Lock Was Built
The very first County Lock was built a long time ago, between 1718 and 1723. This was part of a big project to make the Kennet River easier for boats to use. An engineer named John Hore helped create the Kennet Navigation, connecting Reading and Newbury. The lock was first on the north side of the river. But in 1876, it was moved to its current spot on the south bank. This move was part of a plan to improve Reading's water system.
The Story of Brewery Gut
The land around County Lock used to be home to Simonds' Brewery. This is why the fast-flowing part of the river, just past the lock, is called Brewery Gut. In the old days, when horses pulled boats, there was no path for them along this section. A very long rope had to be sent ahead on a special floating device.
Why Brewery Gut is Tricky
Brewery Gut is very narrow, only about 25 feet (7.6 meters) wide at its tightest point. This makes the water flow very fast and strong. It's also a winding path, so boats can't safely pass each other. In the past, boats sometimes crashed and even sank here. Today, to keep everyone safe, traffic lights control when boats can go through Brewery Gut.
What's Around County Lock Today?
Simonds' Brewery closed down in the late 1970s. Most of its buildings were taken down. Now, around County Lock, you'll find modern apartments and offices. The old stable building from the brewery, which looks over the lock, has been saved. It used to be a Loch Fyne restaurant.
The Oracle Shopping Centre
The part of the brewery that once surrounded Brewery Gut has been replaced by The Oracle shopping centre. If you visit The Oracle, you can see boats sailing right through the middle of its "Riverside Level." This area is now lined with many restaurants and pubs, making it a lively spot.
