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Check with your local beekeeping association as they may offer apiary visits.DSBA host an open day at the apiary, usually in August, where you can put on a bee suit and inspect a hive.  For information please visit here.

Yes. However, most stings happen with poor handling skills. As your beekeeping skills improve you are likely to experience fewer stings. In addition, always wearing your protective clothing and using your smoker effectively will further reduce the likelihood of stings.

This would require a couple of hours one afternoon a week during the active season from April to August. Less frequent, but regular checks every few weeks are required from September to March to check for weather damage and food stocks.

This is highly recommended. Keeping bees is a fulfilling experience when done with confidence based on learning, rather than by trial and error which can be off-putting – and costly if you lose your bees. Check with your local beekeeping association for new beekeeper courses. DSBA runs an annual New Beekeepers course which includes lectures,Continue reading “Do I need to go on a course?”

There is a minimum equipment requirement which includes: Protective clothing: quality protective clothing costs around £230, to occasional veils which provide much less protection at around £10. Smoker, tools and the components to build a hive: £350 to £400 Bees on a budget kits, including clothing, are also available and vary in quality, and priceContinue reading “How much does it cost to set up as a beekeeper?”