Houghton Springs Trout Farm: The Heart of Sustainable Aquaculture in Dorset

Nestled in the picturesque village of Winterborne Houghton, Houghton Springs Trout Farm is a beacon of sustainable aquaculture, proudly carrying a legacy of over 45 years. As the only compartmental trout farm in the UK, we are committed to raising the renowned Winterborne strain of rainbow trout in a way that respects both nature and our community. Our farm thrives on pure chalk spring water sourced from the Winterborne aquifer, ensuring that every fish we raise is nurtured in an environment that mirrors its natural habitat.

A Rich Heritage Rooted in Dorset

At Houghton Springs Trout Farm, our story began over four decades ago, with a family-driven passion for aquaculture. Our founder’s vision was clear: to create a sustainable farm that prioritises the well-being of the fish and the health of our environment. Today, our commitment remains unwavering. As stewards of the land, we harness the unique attributes of the Dorset countryside to produce high-quality trout while maintaining strict biosecurity measures.

  • Over 45 Years of Experience: Our extensive history in aquaculture has equipped us with the knowledge to produce fish that meet the highest standards of quality.
  • The Winterborne Strain: This unique strain of rainbow trout is known for its robust growth and exceptional taste, making it a favourite among chefs and home cooks alike.

For more about our journey and dedication, visit our History page.

Unique Environment: Pure Water, Exceptional Fish

The foundation of our success lies in the pristine water that flows from the Winterborne aquifer. This chalk spring water is naturally filtered and rich in minerals, creating an ideal environment for our trout to thrive.

  • Low-Impact Systems: Our farming practices are designed to have minimal environmental impact. We employ low-density stocking to ensure that our fish are healthy and well-cared for.
  • Biosecurity Measures: As the UK’s only compartmental trout farm, we implement rigorous biosecurity protocols, safeguarding our fish from disease and ensuring the highest quality in every harvest.

Learn more about our unique water source on our Our Water page.

Quality You Can Trust: From Broodstock to Table

At Houghton Springs Trout Farm, we believe in complete traceability. Every fish we produce is carefully monitored from the moment it hatches until it reaches your plate. This commitment to quality is reflected in our nightly delivery service that spans across the UK, ensuring that our trout arrives fresh and ready for culinary delight.

Our Product Range

We take pride in offering a diverse selection of products that cater to various needs:

  • Eggs: Perfect for those looking to start their own aquaculture journey.
  • Fry: Young fish available for restocking ponds.
  • Sporting Fish: Ideal for local anglers looking to experience the thrill of fishing.
  • Fresh Trout: Available for restaurants, retailers, and customers, our trout is celebrated for its exceptional flavor and quality.

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

Sustainability and Innovation: A Commitment to the Future

As we strive to protect our natural resources, we continually seek innovative solutions that enhance our sustainable practices. Our eco-friendly farming methods are designed to preserve the beauty of our valley while delivering high-quality trout to our community.

Future Developments

  • Smoked Products: We are excited to introduce a line of smoked trout products that highlight the rich flavors of our fish.
  • Floating Solar Technology: In our quest to further reduce our carbon footprint, we are exploring the implementation of floating solar panels to generate renewable energy for our farm.

For insights on our future initiatives, visit our The Future page.

A Local Connection: Proudly Serving Our Community

Houghton Springs Trout Farm is not just a business; it’s a community hub. Our roots in Dorset run deep, and we are proud to support local chefs in Poole, restaurants across Somerset, and families from Dorchester to Salisbury. We believe in the importance of building connections and fostering relationships with those who share our commitment to sustainability and quality.

Supporting Local Businesses

By sourcing our fish from local waters and supplying to nearby counties like Wiltshire and Hampshire, we contribute to the local economy and reduce the carbon footprint associated with transportation.

Join Us in Celebrating Sustainable Aquaculture

As October unfolds, we invite you to experience the unique flavors and quality of Houghton Springs Trout Farm. Whether you’re a chef looking to elevate your menu or a family seeking fresh, sustainable fish for dinner, we are here to serve you with warmth and dedication.

Connect with Us

Have questions or want to learn more about our farm? We would love to hear from you! Visit our Contact Us page for more information or to place an order.

Discover More

To stay updated on our latest news, sustainability efforts, and product offerings, check out our Blog page. Here, you can find delicious recipes and insights into our farming practices.

At Houghton Springs Trout Farm, we are proud to be Dorset’s premier sustainable aquaculture farm, committed to providing high-quality trout while nurturing our environment and community. Together, let’s celebrate the rich heritage of aquaculture in this beautiful corner of the UK.