Nestled in the picturesque village of Winterborne Houghton, Houghton Springs Trout Farm is more than just a fishery; it’s a place where heritage, sustainability, and community spirit come together to produce some of the finest trout in Dorset. With over 45 years of family-run expertise, our commitment to raising “The Winterborne” strain of rainbow trout in crystal-clear aquifer-fed waters sets us apart. Each fish we nurture is a testament to our dedication to quality, traceability, and environmental stewardship.
Heritage & Expertise
At Houghton Springs, we take immense pride in our rich legacy. For more than four decades, our family has honed the art of aquaculture, developing a unique strain of rainbow trout known as “The Winterborne.” This heritage is not just about fish; it embodies a way of life deeply connected to the land and waters of Dorset. Our trout are raised with care and respect, ensuring that every fish reflects our commitment to quality and sustainability.
From Egg to Plate
From the moment our trout eggs are carefully selected from traceable broodstock to the time they grace your plate, we maintain rigorous standards of quality and care. Our hatchery is a hub of activity, where each stage of the fish’s life cycle is monitored closely. The journey continues through our rearing systems, where fingerlings flourish in the pure waters of the Winterborne aquifer. Finally, as market-ready trout, they are supplied not only to homes but also to esteemed restaurants, fishmongers, and fisheries, each fish carrying the signature of our farm’s dedication and expertise.
Sustainable Farming
One of the cornerstones of our approach lies in our unique water source. The pure chalk spring water from the Winterborne aquifer flows untainted through our farm, creating an environment where our trout thrive. Utilizing eco-friendly, low-impact systems, we maintain exceptional water quality and fish health. We are also committed to future-facing practices, exploring innovative solutions like recirculating systems and floating solar to enhance our sustainability efforts. Our goal is simple: to nurture the land and water while providing high-quality fish for generations to come.
Local & Trusted
As a proud producer rooted in Dorset, we take our role in the community seriously. Our trout is served on tables across the region, from family homes to high-end dining experiences. We have established strong relationships with local chefs and fishmongers, who appreciate the high quality, consistency, and traceability of our trout. Our farm-to-fork connection ensures that every fish is a story of local provenance, supporting not only our business but also the wider food industry.
The benefits of supporting a local producer are manifold: our trout offers unparalleled purity and taste, and with each fish traceable back to our farm, you can be assured of its quality. Choosing Houghton Springs Trout Farm means choosing to nourish your body with sustainably farmed fish while supporting local economies over larger industrial suppliers.
A Chef’s Choice
Recently, we had the pleasure of working with a local chef, Sarah, who runs a beloved restaurant in Dorset. Sarah praised the consistency and quality of our trout, sharing how she loves to feature it on her menu. “I can trust that each fish from Houghton Springs is not only fresh but also raised with care and respect for the environment,” she said. It’s stories like these that inspire us to continue our work and strengthen our community ties.
If you’re ready to experience the taste and quality of our trout for yourself, we invite you to explore our offerings. Whether you’re a home cook, a chef, or a fishery owner, we have something for you. Consider purchasing directly from our farm or joining our community of sustainable food lovers.
Stay connected with us to learn more about our sustainable practices, special offers, and updates from Houghton Springs Trout Farm. Together, let’s celebrate the beauty of Dorset’s waterways and the delicious bounty they provide!
