Edinburgh, yes. Exmoor, no. I caught wild browns there.It was also apparently fishless water though.
But again, I think it all depends on what you are going for like we've all been talking about. Just the adventure of wetting a line, or having a classic fishing experience. If you are looking for a bigger experience, I fully suspect you'd be getting into renting a beat for the day and perhaps finding a guide.
My point wasn't so much to say you don't need to deal with the beat system, more just that you don't necessary HAVE to. Not every single bit of water over there requires it. All depends on what your goals, budget and timeframe are.