In the 13th century the town was known as Hungerford Regis (Royal Hungerford) and it passed from the King to the Dukes of Lancaster. John of Gaunt, the great 14th century Duke, thus became associated with the town. He apparently gave the townsfolk the right to fish in the River Kennet, a jealously guarded privilege. They received his horn and a charter affirming his gift, but the latter was stolen in the reign of Elizabeth I. The Duchy then tried to re-establish its rights over the river and a famous court case ensued. The matter was only finally resolved when the Queen herself intervened on the town's behalf. Hocktide is said to celebrate the Duke's patronage every second Tuesday after Easter. The town-crier blows his horn and a Hocktide Court is held in the town hall in which all commoners, those living in the most ancient house in the High Street, must pay a fine to ensure their rights of fishing and grazing. Hungerford is unusual in having kept its medieval street plan, as laid out in the High Street in the 12th century. The houses of here still maintain very long and narrow strips of land trailing perpendicularly backwards. It looks quite dramatic from the air. While the court continues, the "Tutti-Men" with floral decorated poles are led through the streets by the "Orange-Man" to collect kisses from all the ladies resident in the High Street. They receive an orange in return. There are various traditional suppers, ale-tastings, lunches and balls. Safe to say, everyone has a lot of fun.
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