Houghton Springs Trout Farm: A Sustainable Aquaculture Experience in the Heart of Dorset

Houghton Springs Trout Farm: A Sustainable Aquaculture Experience in the Heart of Dorset

Welcome to Houghton Springs Trout Farm, where over 45 years of aquaculture heritage meets the stunning landscapes of rural Dorset. Nestled in the picturesque Winterborne Houghton valley, our family-run trout farm is dedicated to raising the exceptional Winterborne strain of rainbow trout, nurtured in the purest chalk spring water. As the only compartmental trout farm in the UK, we take pride in our commitment to sustainability, traceability, and quality.

Our Heritage: A Legacy of Aquaculture

At Houghton Springs Trout Farm, we have been cultivating a rich tradition of sustainable aquaculture for more than four decades. Established in the 1970s, our farm has become synonymous with the Winterborne strain of rainbow trout, renowned for its superior quality and flavor.

  • Experience: Our family has honed our skills and knowledge over generations, ensuring that we provide the best possible care for our fish.
  • Commitment: We are dedicated to sustainable practices that not only benefit our customers but also preserve the local ecosystem.

To learn more about our history and how we have shaped aquaculture in Dorset, visit our History page.

A Unique Environment: The Purest Water

Houghton Springs Trout Farm is uniquely positioned to benefit from the natural resources of the Winterborne aquifer. Our fish thrive in crystal-clear, pure chalk spring water, which is not only ideal for their growth but also contributes to their distinctive taste.

  • Low-Impact Systems: Our farming methods are designed to minimize environmental impact while maximizing fish health and quality.
  • Biosecurity: As the only compartmental trout farm in the UK, we implement stringent biosecurity measures to protect our fish and ensure the highest standards of health and welfare.

Discover more about our water quality and its importance on our Our Water page.

Traceability and Quality: From Broodstock to Table

When you choose Houghton Springs Trout Farm, you can trust that you are receiving the highest quality trout, raised with care and transparency. We are committed to traceability at every step of the process:

  • Broodstock to Plate: Our fish are raised from carefully selected broodstock, ensuring that only the best genetics are passed down.
  • Nightly Deliveries: We offer a reliable nightly delivery service across the UK, catering to local restaurants, retailers, and customers.

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

A Diverse Product Range for Every Need

At Houghton Springs Trout Farm, we take pride in offering a diverse range of products tailored to meet the needs of our community and beyond. Our offerings include:

  • Fresh Rainbow Trout: Perfect for local chefs in Poole and across Somerset, our fish are known for their exceptional taste and quality.
  • Eggs and Fry: We provide trout eggs and fry for those looking to raise their own fish, supporting sustainable aquaculture practices within the community.
  • Sporting Fish: Our farm supplies sporting fish for restocking purposes, contributing to local angling initiatives.

To explore our full range of products, visit our Fish For Sale page.

Sustainability and Innovation: Caring for Our Valley

At the heart of Houghton Springs Trout Farm is our commitment to sustainability. We believe in stewardship of the valley and are continually looking for innovative ways to enhance our eco-friendly practices. Here’s how we are leading the way:

  • Eco-Friendly Farming Practices: We prioritize sustainable farming methods that benefit both our fish and the environment.
  • The Future of Aquaculture: We are exploring exciting developments, including smoked trout products and floating solar technology, to further reduce our carbon footprint and enhance our sustainability efforts.

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

A Local Connection: Rooted in Dorset

Houghton Springs Trout Farm is proud to be a part of the Dorset community. Our farm is easily accessible for residents in nearby counties such as Wiltshire, Somerset, and Hampshire, making it a go-to destination for fresh, locally-sourced trout.

  • Community Values: We believe in supporting our local economy and fostering connections with other businesses and families in the area.
  • Accessibility: Our location allows us to serve customers from Dorchester to Salisbury, ensuring that our high-quality trout is available to a wide audience.

Come visit us and experience the warmth of our family-run farm. For more information, please Contact Us or explore our Blog for delicious recipes and updates.

Join Us in Celebrating Sustainable Aquaculture

As we enter November 2025, we invite you to join us in celebrating the rich heritage of aquaculture in Dorset. Houghton Springs Trout Farm stands as a testament to the enduring commitment of our family to sustainable practices and quality fish farming.

Whether you are a local chef looking for the freshest trout, a retail owner seeking quality products, or a family wanting to enjoy sustainably-raised fish, we are here to serve you.

Explore our offerings and learn more about our commitment to quality and sustainability. Visit our Home page to get started!

At Houghton Springs Trout Farm, we are not just raising fish; we are nurturing a legacy of sustainability, community, and quality. Join us on this journey, and let’s create a brighter future together!