Houghton Springs Trout Farm: A Sustainable Aquaculture Haven in Dorset

Houghton Springs Trout Farm: A Sustainable Aquaculture Haven in Dorset

Welcome to Houghton Springs Trout Farm, where over 45 years of dedicated aquaculture heritage meets the beautiful rural landscape of Dorset. Nestled in the picturesque village of Winterborne Houghton, we take pride in nurturing the exceptional Winterborne strain of rainbow trout, ensuring that every fish we raise is a testament to our commitment to sustainability, quality, and community.

Our Heritage: A Legacy of Excellence

For more than four decades, Houghton Springs Trout Farm has been a cornerstone of sustainable aquaculture in Dorset. Since our inception, we have focused on raising the Winterborne strain of rainbow trout, renowned for its hardiness and taste. Our family-run farm has been dedicated to fostering a harmonious relationship between nature and aquaculture, ensuring that our practices are as much about the environment as they are about providing high-quality fish.

To learn more about our history and the journey that brought us here, visit our History page.

Unique Environment: Pure Chalk Spring Water

At Houghton Springs, we believe that the best fish come from the best water. Our trout thrive in pure chalk spring water sourced directly from the Winterborne aquifer, a natural treasure that provides the perfect environment for our fish to flourish. This pristine water is vital for maintaining the health and quality of our trout, allowing them to grow in a clean, low-impact system.

As the only compartmental trout farm in the UK, we implement robust biosecurity measures, ensuring that our fish are protected from disease and stress. This unique approach not only safeguards the health of our broodstock but also contributes to the overall sustainability of our farming practices.

Discover more about our water source and its significance in our aquaculture practices on our Our Water page.

Traceability and Quality: From Broodstock to Table

At Houghton Springs Trout Farm, we are passionate about transparency and traceability. Our commitment to quality is evident in every step of our process, from broodstock management to the moment our fish reach your table. We prioritize ethical farming practices, ensuring that our trout are raised in the most humane and environmentally friendly manner possible.

Our dedication to quality extends to our delivery service. We offer nightly deliveries across the UK, ensuring that our customers receive the freshest fish available. Whether you are a local restaurant chef in Poole or a retailer in Salisbury, we are here to supply you with the finest trout.

Explore our range of products, including eggs, fry, and sporting fish for restocking, on our Fish For Sale page.

A Diverse Product Range for All Your Needs

Houghton Springs Trout Farm is proud to offer a diverse selection of products to cater to our community and beyond. Our offerings include:

  • Fresh Rainbow Trout: Ideal for local restaurants and customers looking for healthy, delicious options.
  • Trout Eggs and Fry: Perfect for anglers and fishery management.
  • Sporting Fish: Available for restocking purposes, supporting sustainable fishing practices.

We are also excited to announce that we are exploring new product developments, including smoked trout options and innovative floating solar technology to enhance our sustainability efforts.

Stay updated on our latest innovations by checking our The Future page.

Sustainability and Innovation: Our Commitment to the Future

Sustainability is at the heart of what we do. At Houghton Springs Trout Farm, we are committed to eco-friendly farming practices that protect our local environment and support the community. Our stewardship of the beautiful Winterborne Valley includes responsible water management, habitat conservation, and minimizing our environmental footprint.

As we look to the future, we are excited about implementing new technologies, such as floating solar panels, to further reduce our reliance on non-renewable energy sources. We believe that innovation and sustainability go hand-in-hand, and we are dedicated to leading the way in responsible aquaculture.

Local Connection: Proudly Serving Dorset and Beyond

Our roots run deep in Dorset, and we are proud to serve not just the local community but also the surrounding areas, including Wiltshire, Somerset, and Hampshire. Whether it’s supplying chefs in Dorchester or providing fresh fish to markets across the region, Houghton Springs Trout Farm is committed to fostering strong relationships with our customers.

We believe in the power of community and strive to support local businesses and initiatives. Our fish is not only a source of nourishment but also a symbol of our dedication to the land and people we cherish.

To connect with us and learn more about our farm, please visit our Contact Us page.

Join Us in Our Sustainable Journey

As we step into January 2026, we invite you to join us in our journey toward a more sustainable future. At Houghton Springs Trout Farm, we are not just raising fish; we are cultivating a legacy of quality, community, and environmental stewardship. Whether you’re looking to purchase our fresh trout or learn more about our practices, we are here to share our passion for sustainable aquaculture with you.

Explore our Blog for insights, recipes, and tips on how to enjoy our delicious trout.

Thank you for supporting Houghton Springs Trout Farm, where our commitment to quality and sustainability is as clear as the pure chalk spring water that nurtures our fish.