Houghton Springs Trout Farm: Your Destination for Sustainable Aquaculture in Dorset
Welcome to Houghton Springs Trout Farm, a proud family-run aquaculture business nestled in the picturesque village of Winterborne Houghton, Dorset. With over 45 years of dedicated experience, we are committed to raising the exceptional Winterborne strain of rainbow trout in a sustainable and environmentally friendly manner. Our farm is not just a place to source high-quality fish; it’s a testament to the rich aquaculture heritage of Dorset and a hub for the community.
Our Heritage: A Legacy of Excellence
At Houghton Springs Trout Farm, our journey began over four decades ago, rooted deeply in the traditions of sustainable aquaculture. We are proud to be the only compartmental trout farm in the UK, which allows us to maintain the highest standards of biosecurity and fish health. Our commitment to keeping the Winterborne strain of rainbow trout thriving is at the heart of our operations.
As we enter October 2025, we reflect on our heritage: from our carefully selected broodstock to our table-ready fish, every aspect of our farming practices is designed to ensure quality and traceability. We believe that our long-standing history in the industry enhances our ability to provide the freshest and finest trout available, not just in Dorset but across the UK.
A Unique Environment: Pure Chalk Spring Water
The secret to our success lies in the pristine environment we cultivate. Houghton Springs Trout Farm is nourished by pure chalk spring water sourced from the Winterborne aquifer. This natural resource is rich in minerals and provides an ideal habitat for raising healthy trout. Our low-impact farming systems ensure minimal environmental disruption while promoting the well-being of our fish.
Key Features of Our Environment:
- Chalk Spring Water: Crystal clear and full of natural minerals, it enhances the flavour and quality of our trout.
- Biosecurity Measures: As the UK’s only compartmental trout farm, we employ rigorous biosecurity practices that protect our fish from disease.
- Sustainable Practices: Our eco-friendly systems reflect our commitment to stewardship of the beautiful Dorset valley.
You can learn more about our unique water source here.
Traceability and Quality: From Broodstock to Table
At Houghton Springs, we believe in complete transparency. Our trout are raised with the utmost care, ensuring that every fish reaches your plate with the highest standards of quality. Our traceability system allows you to follow the journey of our fish from broodstock to table-ready products, giving you peace of mind about the quality of your food.
Our Product Range:
- Eggs and Fry: Ideal for restocking and aquaculture enthusiasts.
- Sporting Fish: Perfect for local anglers looking to enjoy a day on the water.
- Fresh Trout: Supplying local restaurants, retailers, and directly to customers.
Our nightly delivery service ensures that our fresh trout is available from Poole to Salisbury, making it easy for you to enjoy the best of Dorset’s aquaculture.
Explore our full range of fish for sale here.
Sustainability and Innovation: Looking Towards the Future
At Houghton Springs Trout Farm, sustainability is not just a buzzword; it is integral to our identity. We are continuously exploring innovative practices that minimize our ecological footprint while enhancing the quality of our fish.
Our Commitment to Sustainability:
- Eco-Friendly Farming: We employ practices that support biodiversity and protect the natural environment.
- Future Developments: We are excited to announce upcoming initiatives, including smoked trout products and the integration of floating solar technology to harness renewable energy.
As we look ahead, we remain committed to ensuring that our farm not only thrives but also contributes positively to the community and environment. You can learn more about our future plans here.
Our Local Connection: Proud Members of the Dorset Community
Houghton Springs Trout Farm is proud to be a part of the Dorset community. Our roots run deep in this beautiful region, and we strive to foster strong connections with our neighbours, customers, and local businesses.
Our farm is easily accessible for those in surrounding counties, including Wiltshire, Somerset, and Hampshire, making it convenient for anyone looking to experience the best of Dorset’s aquaculture. We love supplying local chefs and restaurants with fresh, high-quality trout, enriching the culinary scene from Dorchester to Salisbury.
Community Focus:
- Local Partnerships: We collaborate with local restaurants and retailers to promote and showcase our fresh trout.
- Community Values: We are dedicated to engaging with the local community through events, educational programs, and outreach initiatives.
To see what our customers say about us, check out our testimonials here.
Join Us at Houghton Springs Trout Farm!
As we embrace the vibrant colours of October and the harvest season, we invite you to visit us at Houghton Springs Trout Farm. Experience firsthand the dedication, passion, and sustainability that defines our operations. Whether you’re a local chef, an enthusiastic angler, or simply someone who appreciates fresh, high-quality trout, you’ll find something special here.
Call to Action:
Ready to taste the difference? Visit our blog for recipes, tips, and recent updates, or contact us to learn more about our products and services.
Thank you for supporting sustainable aquaculture in Dorset. We look forward to welcoming you to our farm soon!