Have you ever considered becoming a beekeeper? Would you like to find out more about bees and beekeeping?

Reading a book will give you some insight into what is involved in keeping honey bees as well as the equipment required and may help you decide if this is for you. Popular books include the following:

Bees at the Bottom of the Garden by Alan Campion is a wonderful introduction to the world of the honey bee and explains all aspects of its life cycle, how it forages and what goes on inside the hive.

Practical Beekeeping by Clive de Bruyn and Guide to Bees and Honey by the late Ted Hooper MBE are considered by beekeepers to be the essential reading of those wishing to pursue apiculture, or beekeeping. Both luminaries of the global beekeeping community, they also both honed their skills as members of the EBKA.

Contact your local beekeepers association

Some local divisions will be able to arrange an ‘introduction day’ or ‘taster session’  for you, with a qualified bee keeper. This will give you an idea of what to expect when opening a hive and how it feels to work with bees.  You can then find out details from your local division or ask one of the beekeepers at any event where the EBKA has a stand.

Join your local beekeepers association

The most important step you can take in your journey into this exciting craft is to join your local division. This will give you access to training, research materials, equipment but most importantly you can gain experience in a safe and enjoyable environment.

If you would like details about becoming a beekeeper or joining your local division of the Essex Beekeepers’ Association, follow one of the links above or complete this form and we’ll be in touch as soon as we can.