Explore the Heart of Dorset at Houghton Springs Trout Farm

Explore the Heart of Dorset at Houghton Springs Trout Farm

Nestled in the picturesque village of Winterborne Houghton, Houghton Springs Trout Farm is more than just a farm; it’s a cornerstone of Dorset’s aquaculture heritage. With over 45 years of experience, our family-run business is proud to raise the exquisite Winterborne strain of rainbow trout, nurtured in the pure, chalk-filtered waters of the Winterborne aquifer. As the only compartmental trout farm in the UK, we place a strong emphasis on biosecurity and sustainability, ensuring we deliver the highest quality fish from our waters to your table.

A Legacy of Aquaculture Excellence

At Houghton Springs Trout Farm, our roots run deep. Since our inception, we have been dedicated to the sustainable farming of trout, which thrives in the unique environment provided by our natural spring water. This commitment to quality is reflected in our operations, which are designed to minimise environmental impact while maximising fish health and welfare. Our farm has grown into a vital part of the local community, and we take pride in our heritage and the role we play in Dorset’s vibrant agricultural landscape.

Our Unique Environment

The secret to our success lies in our environment. The pure chalk spring water that flows from the Winterborne aquifer is rich in minerals and nutrients, creating the ideal conditions for raising healthy, delicious trout.

  • Low-Impact Systems: Our farming practices are designed to be environmentally friendly, utilising low-impact systems that protect the delicate balance of our ecosystem.
  • Biosecurity Measures: As the UK’s only compartmental trout farm, we have implemented stringent biosecurity measures to safeguard our fish from disease, ensuring the health and quality of our stock.

To learn more about the unique water that nurtures our fish, visit our Our Water page.

Commitment to Traceability and Quality

At Houghton Springs Trout Farm, we believe in the importance of traceability. From our carefully selected broodstock to the fish that end up on your plate, we oversee every aspect of our production process. Our customers can rest assured that they are enjoying the finest quality trout, raised with care and respect for our environment.

  • Delivery Services: We offer a nightly delivery service across the UK, ensuring that our trout reaches local restaurants, retailers, and customers with the same freshness as when it leaves our farm.
  • Product Range: Our offerings include:
    • Eggs and Fry: Perfect for those looking to cultivate their own trout.
    • Sporting Fish: Ideal for restocking lakes or rivers.
    • Fresh Trout: Sourced directly from our farm to your table, delivering rich flavour and superior quality.

Explore our full range of offerings on the Fish For Sale page.

Sustainability and Innovation: A Bright Future Ahead

As stewards of the beautiful Winterborne valley, we are committed to sustainable practices that protect our land and water for future generations. Our innovative approach includes:

  • Eco-Friendly Farming: Our farming techniques prioritise sustainability, ensuring that we maintain the natural beauty of Dorset while producing high-quality fish.
  • Future Developments: We are excited to explore new ventures, such as smoked trout products and the integration of floating solar technology, which will further enhance our sustainability efforts and reduce our carbon footprint.

To learn more about our vision for the future, visit our The Future page.

A Local Connection: Houghton Springs and Beyond

Our farm is deeply rooted in the Dorset community, providing fresh, traceable trout to local chefs and families alike. We are proud to serve the surrounding areas, from Dorchester to Salisbury, and our fish is a sought-after ingredient in many kitchens—from Poole to Somerset.

  • Supporting Local Businesses: We work closely with local restaurants, retailers, and community members to ensure our products are accessible and contribute to the local economy.
  • Community Values: At Houghton Springs Trout Farm, we believe in giving back to our community. Our commitment to quality and sustainability resonates with those who appreciate locally sourced food and the importance of supporting family-run businesses.

Visit Us

We invite you to experience the charm and dedication behind Houghton Springs Trout Farm. Whether you’re interested in purchasing our fresh trout, learning about aquaculture, or simply enjoying the stunning Dorset countryside, there is something for everyone.

  • Plan Your Visit: We welcome visitors to our farm, where you can see our operations firsthand and learn more about the sustainable practices that set us apart. To arrange a visit or inquire about our products, please Contact Us.

Join Us on This Journey

As we continue to grow and innovate, we are excited to share our story with you. Join our community and stay updated on our latest offerings and initiatives by visiting our Blog for insights and news.

At Houghton Springs Trout Farm, we are proud of our heritage, committed to sustainability, and dedicated to providing you with the very best of Dorset’s aquaculture. Experience the difference that comes from a family-run farm that cares for its community, its fish, and the environment.

Together, let’s celebrate the rich tradition of aquaculture in Dorset and bring the freshest trout from our waters to your table!