Houghton Springs Trout Farm: The Heart of Sustainable Aquaculture in Dorset
Welcome to Houghton Springs Trout Farm, a cherished family-run business nestled in the picturesque village of Winterborne Houghton, Dorset. For over 45 years, we have been passionately dedicated to the art of aquaculture, nurturing the unique Winterborne strain of rainbow trout in harmony with our beautiful surroundings. Our commitment to sustainability, traceability, and community values sets us apart as the only compartmental trout farm in the UK, where quality and care come together in every fish we raise.
Our Heritage: A Legacy of Excellence
At Houghton Springs, our story began over four decades ago, rooted in a deep respect for the environment and a passion for sustainable farming practices. We take pride in our rich heritage of raising the Winterborne strain of rainbow trout, which has been perfected through careful breeding and nurturing. Our trout are cultivated using low-impact systems in pure chalk spring water sourced directly from the Winterborne aquifer, ensuring a pristine environment that promotes healthy growth.
To learn more about our journey, visit our History page.
A Unique Environment: Pure Water, Healthy Fish
One of the cornerstones of our success is the exceptional quality of water we use. The pure chalk spring water from the Winterborne aquifer is not only vital for the health of our trout but also contributes to their distinct flavour and quality. Our low-impact farming systems are designed to maintain the natural ecosystem, ensuring minimal disruption to the environment while adhering to stringent biosecurity measures.
As the only compartmental trout farm in the UK, we have created a sanctuary for our fish, allowing us to monitor their health closely and maintain optimal living conditions. This level of care translates to a superior product that our customers can trust.
Traceability and Quality: From Broodstock to Table
We believe that every trout raised at Houghton Springs is a testament to our dedication to quality. Our commitment to traceability means that all our fish can be traced back to our carefully selected broodstock. We oversee every step of the process, from hatching eggs to delivering table-ready fish.
Our delivery service operates nightly, ensuring that our fresh trout reaches chefs and customers across the UK, from bustling restaurants in Poole to the markets of Salisbury. This commitment to quality and service allows us to maintain strong relationships with our community and beyond.
Explore our product range on our Fish For Sale page.
Our Product Range: Fresh Trout and More
At Houghton Springs, we offer a diverse array of products tailored to meet the needs of our customers:
- Eggs and Fry: Perfect for both hobbyist aquarists and larger operations looking to stock their waters.
- Sporting Fish: Ideal for restocking lakes and rivers, contributing to local fishing experiences.
- Fresh Trout: Our farm-fresh rainbow trout is available for local restaurants, retailers, and home cooks, celebrated for its quality and taste.
We invite you to discover the full range of our offerings and find the perfect trout solution for your needs.
Sustainability and Innovation: A Commitment to the Future
As stewards of the beautiful Dorset valley, we are committed to sustainable farming practices that preserve our natural resources for future generations. Our eco-friendly farming methods not only benefit our fish but also contribute positively to the local ecosystem.
In our pursuit of innovation, we are exploring exciting developments, including the introduction of smoked trout products and the implementation of floating solar technology. These initiatives will not only enhance our product offerings but also reduce our carbon footprint, aligning with our mission to operate in harmony with nature.
To learn more about our vision for the future, visit our The Future page.
Local Connection: Proudly Serving Dorset and Beyond
Being part of the Dorset community is at the heart of what we do. Our farm is conveniently located for customers from surrounding counties, including Wiltshire, Somerset, and Hampshire. We are proud to support local chefs and restaurants, supplying the freshest trout to enhance their menus and satisfy their clientele.
From Dorchester to Salisbury, we are dedicated to building strong relationships within our community, ensuring that our practices benefit not only our business but also the people and the environment around us.
Join Us on This Journey
At Houghton Springs Trout Farm, we invite you to join us on our journey of sustainable aquaculture. Whether you’re a chef looking for the freshest ingredients, a hobbyist seeking quality fish, or a community member wanting to learn more about our practices, we welcome you to connect with us.
Explore our Blog for insights into our farming practices, recipes, and updates about our farm.
If you have any questions or would like to place an order, please reach out to us through our Contact Us page.
Conclusion
As we head into December 2025, Houghton Springs Trout Farm remains committed to our heritage of excellence in sustainable aquaculture. We are proud to provide the finest trout, nurtured in pure Dorset spring water, with a focus on quality, traceability, and community connection. Thank you for supporting our family-run business and being part of our story. Together, let’s continue to promote sustainable practices that respect our environment and nourish our community.
Visit our Home page to learn more about what we do and how you can be involved in our ongoing commitment to sustainable aquaculture in Dorset and beyond.