Bee Keeper for a Day

Get a buzz from these beekeeping courses in Sussex! Learn how to be a real beekeeper in the tranquil countryside setting of High Weald near East Grinstead and discover how these incredible insects and work their magic to create one of Mother Nature's sweetest treats that is honey.

Run by passionate horticulturists and promoters of self-sufficiency, Lisa Aitken and Olivar Sinclair, this fantastic beekeeping course will literally lift the lid on beehives and show you the wonderful world of apiculture in a new and exciting way. Find out the process of how to create a honeycomb, as well as learning about the complex interactions between bee, flower and hive that results in the delicious gooey honey we all know and love.

On each of our introductory courses on beekeeping, you'll be told all about how to tend the bees and harvest the honeycomb without damaging the hive as a whole. There are many different types of hives and resident bees need regular care and attention if they are to flourish in the often wet and windy weather of the UK. During the course you'll be able to see the inside of a working beehive for yourself, marvel at the intricate patterns of wax and try to spot the queen bee bossing everyone else around. Spend time observing the fascinating relationships between the different types of bee and learn about their role within the busy colony.

Of course, all the protective gear you need is provided, including the fetching net hats that mark out beekeepers everywhere. The pace of the course is all very relaxed, with a lunch break with your fellow amateur beekeepers and refreshments provided, making this a splendid day out for honey-lovers of all ages. Group sizes are small to keep this a fully interactive experience and you'll be amazed at what you discover in just a few hours.

For a honey-sweet experience like no other, take part in this beekeeping course and let your love of buzzing bees take wing. We guarantee your day will be a hive of activity and you'll be able to enjoy learning the skills of a traditional beekeeper before heading to the onsite shop to purchase your very own pot of golden nectar.

• Experiences generally operate on selected dates between May and August
• Courses start at 10:00 and finish at 16:00
• Dates are subject to change as the opening of hives is weather dependent
• Experiences must be booked by August 2024

Scheduled 2024 Dates:

• Sunday 12th May 
• Sunday 30th June 
• Sunday 21st July 
• Sunday 18th August