People often ask how we started keeping bees. Getting started is the easy bit…it’s the activity all year round that’s hard work! Here’s a quick intro to some things you can consider if you want to explore beekeeping yourself.

6 things you’ll need to start beekeeping

Learn the Basics

  • Take a beekeeping course through your local beekeeping association
  • Read books and resources on beekeeping fundamentals
  • Join your local branch of the British Beekeepers Association (BBKA)

Obtain Equipment

Beekeeping can be expensive! A few of the things you’ll need include

  • Beehive (Langstroth or National are common in the UK)
  • Protective clothing (bee suit, gloves, boots)
  • Hive tool and smoker
  • Frames and foundation for the hive

Find a Location

  • Choose a suitable spot for your hive:
  • Your garden, roof, unused farmland, or local apiary
  • Ensure adequate foraging area for bees

Get Your Bees

  • Order bees from a reputable local supplier
  • Start with a nucleus colony (small established hive)
  • Aim to begin in spring (April/May)

Hive Management

  • Conduct regular hive inspections (weekly in spring/summer)
  • Monitor for pests, diseases and queen health
  • Manage hive space as the colony grows

Ongoing Learning

  • Continue education through your local beekeeping association
  • Find an experienced mentor to guide you

Understanding the Beekeeping Calendar

Beekeeping activities in the UK follow a seasonal pattern. Understanding this calendar is crucial for successful hive management.

Spring (March-May): This is the busiest time for beekeepers. As temperatures rise, colonies become more active. Conduct frequent inspections to ensure the queen is laying eggs and the colony is growing. Watch for signs of swarming and take preventative measures if necessary. Feed colonies if honey stores are low.

Summer (June-August): Continue regular inspections but be mindful of the heat. Ensure bees have access to water. Monitor for pest infestations, particularly varroa mites. Harvest honey if surplus is available, typically in late summer.

Autumn (September-November): Prepare colonies for winter by ensuring they have enough honey stores. Treat for varroa mites if necessary. Reduce the hive entrance to protect against pests or robbing by other bees or by hornets and wasps).

Winter (December-February): Bees cluster to stay warm during this period. Avoid opening the hive unless absolutely necessary. Check food stores and provide fondant if needed. Use this time to repair equipment and plan for the coming year.

Legal Considerations and Best Practices

In the UK, whilst there’s no legal requirement to register as a beekeeper, it’s strongly recommended to register with the National Bee Unit through BeeBase. This free service provides valuable resources and alerts about disease outbreaks in your area.

Beekeepers should also be aware of their responsibilities regarding disease control. Notifiable diseases like American and European Foulbrood must be reported to the authorities.

It’s also important to consider your neighbours when keeping bees. While there are no specific laws about beekeeping in residential areas, it’s good practice to inform your neighbours and address any concerns they might have. Proper hive placement and management can help minimise any potential nuisance.

With proper preparation and ongoing education, beekeeping can be a rewarding hobby that benefits the environment. The journey into beekeeping is a continuous learning experience, offering fascinating insights into the complex world of honey bees and their crucial role in our ecosystem.