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Get Started

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Getting Started

Do You Want to Keep Bees?

How will you know if beekeeping is for you? Before you start buying equipment, there are some things you can do that will give you a taste of what is involved.

Non-members may come as a guest to one East Devon Beekeepers meeting to get a taste of what we do. Contact any Committee member and we will be delighted to welcome you.

Beginners at the teaching apiaryBeginners at the teaching apiary

The teaching apiaryThe teaching apiary

Taking part at the Honiton ShowTaking part at the Honiton Show

For those intending to get started, members can access our wide-ranging beekeeping Library.

For those not sure or who would like a more broadly based and personal introduction to the craft you can join our annual Beginners Course.

We can provide a beekeeper’s suit to start you off; you provide the Wellingtons and washing-up gloves. The programme as a whole will give you a solid understanding of what’s involved and, if you don’t already know one, may introduce you to a nearby beekeeper who can act as mentor to help you develop your experience. It is always helpful to know what is likely to develop in your hive next week, next month, next year, and be prepared for it.

Bee keeping has a popular public profile and attractive images to go with it: the hive at the bottom of the garden, a harvest of many jars of home-produced honey. There is also the satisfaction of knowing that one is working with nature, not against it.

Honey harvestGolden honey harvest

Traditional hiveTraitional bee hive

Brood inspectionDemonstrating brood inspection

Every venture begins with a first step. What is your first step? Contact us! Talk to us about beekeepers in your area, about Beginners’ courses. Meet beekeepers. Meet bees. Read the FAQs.

Sub-pages:BeginnersFAQsKit ListWhich HiveFrame Making