15 Quality Bee Equipment Shops in Britain: A Beekeeper’s Guide
Ready to discover Britain’s finest beekeeping suppliers? Whether you’re dreaming of your first hive or expanding your thriving apiary, choosing the right equipment makes all the difference! 🐝
From Market Rasen to Ruthin, our local suppliers bring something special to the beekeeping community. Fancy a premium cedar hive from Thorne’s (£165 for a complete National)? Or perhaps one of Paynes’ sought-after poly nucs? Each shop offers unique treasures waiting to be discovered.
That’s exactly why we’ve handpicked Britain’s 15 best beekeeping equipment shops for you. Quality tools, exceptional service, and unbeatable value – because when you’re spending precious hours tending to your colonies, you deserve equipment that won’t let you down! 💛
Thorne Beekeeping Equipment (Lincolnshire)
Image Source: Thorne Beehives
🏭 Say hello to Britain’s beekeeping royalty! Nestled in the heart of Lincolnshire, E.H. Thorne crafts some of the finest bee equipment you’ll find anywhere. This family-owned treasure has been the go-to source for quality hives and tools since 1913.
A Legacy of Excellence
What started with Edgar Henry Thorne crafting a single beehive for a local schoolmaster has blossomed into something truly special! Today, this fourth-generation family firm supports hundreds of local craftspeople and over 50,000 beekeepers. When even Buckingham Palace chooses Thorne’s cedar beehives, you know you’re in good company!
Their Western Red Cedar hives are simply legendary – built to last and keeping your colonies cosy through Britain’s unpredictable weather.
Quality Equipment That Makes Your Heart Buzz
Step onto Thorne’s impressive 31-acre site at Rand and you’ll discover a beekeeper’s paradise! Picture this: a bustling woodwork shop with over 70 machines, a wax plant churning out 2 million foundation sheets annually, and skilled engineers crafting precision tools.
Their treasure trove includes:
- Beautiful hives in every style (National, WBC, Langstroth, Commercial, Smith)
- Top-notch protective gear to keep you safe
- Everything you need for honey extraction
- Clever tools for queen rearing
- Smart storage solutions
Perfect Starter Kits for Newbees! 🐝
Just starting your beekeeping adventure? Thorne’s beginner kits take the mystery out of getting started. Each National Beginners Kit comes packed with everything you need – from mesh floors to crown boards, and all the bits in between!
Watching the pennies? Their brilliant “Bees on a Budget” range starts at just £170. Choose your style (National, WBC, or Langstroth) and decide whether you fancy some DIY assembly!
Savvy Shopping at Thorne’s
Smart beekeepers know when to snap up a bargain! Look out for special deals at the Welsh Convention and BBKA Spring Convention at Harper Adams. Plus, enjoy year-round perks like:
- Free delivery when you spend over £100 (mainland GB only)
- Brilliant bulk discounts for beekeeping clubs (15-25% off)
- Handy wax conversion at special events
- Permanent savings on essentials
Keep an eye on their Special Offers section for deals on everything from mouseguards to polish containers. Because who doesn’t love a bargain? 💛
C Wynne Jones (Denbighshire)
Image Source: cwynnejones.com
🏪 Tucked away in the stunning Vale of Clwyd near Ruthin, C Wynne Jones has been sweetening the lives of British beekeepers since 1977! What started as a honey-loving couple’s dream has blossomed into a treasure trove of beekeeping brilliance.
Sweet Specialities That Make You Buzz!
From humble beginnings focused purely on bee bits and bobs, C Wynne Jones now offers everything a beekeeper’s heart desires! Whether you’re hunting for complete hives or dreaming of the perfect honey jar, they’ve got something to make your produce shine.
Want to branch out beyond basic beekeeping? Their gorgeous aromatherapy bottles and containers help you create beautiful value-added products that’ll have your customers coming back for more! No wonder beekeepers across Britain and Europe can’t get enough of their speedy service and personal touch.
Prices That Won’t Sting!
Looking for quality without the royal price tag? C Wynne Jones keeps things sweet and simple with VAT-inclusive pricing across the range. Their wooden beauties include a National Hive (1st Quality) at £264.00 and a robust 14 x 12 Brood Body (1st Quality) for £71.20.
Watching the pennies? Their “2nds Range” cedar hives give you that quality feel without breaking the bank!
Swienty Poly Hives – Danish Design Meets British Practicality!
Say hello to cosy colonies with Swienty’s polystyrene perfection from Denmark! Their National Poly Hive (£143.80) comes packed with everything you need – from roof to alighting board. Fancy something different? Try the Langstroth Poly Hive at £156.00 or go jumbo for £165.60!
These clever hives pack a punch with dense 100g/litre polystyrene and toasty 45mm thick walls. Assembly’s a breeze – no glue needed! Best of all, they play nicely with your wooden National kit, so mix and match to your heart’s content.
Want them to last? A splash of Sandex Masonry Paint could keep these beauties going for 30 years! Now that’s what we call value for money! 🐝💛
Maisemore Apiaries (Gloucestershire)
Image Source: Maisemore Apiaries
🍯 Meet the foundation masters of Gloucestershire! Since 1953, Maisemore Apiaries has grown from a humble hobby into a beekeeping powerhouse. Three generations of the Hiam family have poured their passion into crafting quality beekeeping equipment that makes colonies thrive.
The Foundation That Dreams Are Made Of!
Talk about liquid gold – Maisemore’s beeswax foundation is so spectacular that other suppliers queue up to stock it! Their range will make your colonies sing:
- BS Deep Foundation (brood wired) – a steal at £16.00 per 10 sheets
- BS Shallow Foundation (super wired) – just £10.00 per 10 sheets
- BS 14×12 Foundation (jumbo wired) – £26.54 per 10 sheets
- Langstroth options for every preference
Love sustainability? Turn your old comb into fresh foundation with their brilliant wax exchange service. Now that’s what we call bee-utiful recycling!
Equipment That Makes Beekeeping Better
Ready to discover your new favourite tools? Maisemore’s treasure chest includes:
- Gorgeous cedar hives in every style imaginable
- Clever “Rock Bottom” hives that won’t break the bank
- Everything a newbee needs to get started
- Tools that make extraction a breeze
- Smart solutions for honey processing
Every piece of timber comes from sustainable forests, while their poly hives pack three times the punch of standard polystyrene. Talk about strength and sustainability!
Service That Keeps You Buzzing
When it comes to knowing their stuff, Maisemore’s team takes the crown! With 1,000 hives spread across the countryside, they understand exactly what British beekeepers need.
No time to visit? Their handy Click & Collect service brings your goodies straight to your car. Plus, their March madness sales will have your wallet thanking you! 🐝💛
Paynes Beekeeping Supplies (East Sussex)
Image Source: paynesbeefarm.co.uk
🐝 Looking for beekeeping heritage with a modern twist? Since 1922, Paynes has been helping British beekeepers create buzzing colonies! Now under Simon The Beekeeper’s loving care, this East Sussex gem continues to shine brighter than ever.
Those Famous Poly Nucs!
Why do beekeepers across Britain rave about Paynes’ poly nucs? Because these beauties make nucleus colonies and swarm management an absolute dream! The standard National Poly Nuc starts at just £49.99, while versions with all the trimmings (frames and foundation included) cost £61.99. Need something bigger? Their 14×12 Poly Nuc will set you back £64.99, or £79.99 with the works.
Perfect for Newbees
Say goodbye to beekeeping confusion and hello to confidence! For a hundred years, Paynes has helped countless British beekeepers start their journey. While their starter kits are moving to Simon The Beekeeper’s catalogue, the same quality and value that generations have trusted remains unchanged.
Shopping Made Sweet
Remember the digital dark ages of 1999? While most suppliers were still finding their feet, Paynes was already buzzing online! Today, Simon The Beekeeper’s website keeps that pioneering spirit alive, offering the full Paynes range with the same dedication to quality that made them famous.
Collection That’s Convenient
Fancy saving on shipping? Until recently, Wednesday visits to Bentley Cottage (11am-7pm) meant happy beekeepers collecting their treasures. Simply pick “Local Pickup” at checkout, and the savings were yours! Don’t worry – Simon The Beekeeper keeps this tradition buzzing with similar collection options that’ll make your wallet smile! 💛
E.H. Thorne (Beehives) Ltd (Scotland)
Image Source: Thorne Beehives
🏴 Ready to discover Scotland’s sweetest beekeeping secret? Tucked away in beautiful Fife, Thorne’s Scottish hub has been making Scottish beekeepers buzz with joy since 1998! This isn’t just another branch – it’s a treasure trove of expertise specially crafted for our northern friends.
Scottish Beekeeping at its Finest!
Want equipment that laughs in the face of Highland winters? Thorne Scotland’s got your back! Beyond their regular catalogue, you’ll find clever bits and bobs specially chosen for those challenging Scottish seasons. Fancy turning your old beeswax into fresh foundation? Their on-site exchange service works pure magic!
Mark your calendars for those legendary August Sale Days! And with summer hours that work around your schedule (April-August: Monday-Friday 9am-5pm, Saturdays 9am-12pm), you’ll never miss out on the good stuff!
Where Magic Happens
Step into Brian Nish’s workshop wonderland! With 40 years of know-how under his belt, Brian crafts those famous silicone candle moulds that make beekeepers’ eyes light up. Every single “TS mould” in the Thorne kingdom comes from right here in Scotland!
Need something special for your apiary? Their spacious workshop means custom equipment is just a conversation away. Quality that would make any Scotsman proud!
Learning and Growing Together
Why just buy equipment when you can join a family? The Scottish Beekeeping Association loves this place so much, they’ve made it their second home! Whether you’re just starting or you’re a seasoned pro, their workshops and meetings will have your beekeeping knowledge blooming faster than heather in August! 🐝💛
Bee Equipment Ltd (Kent)
Image Source: Facebook
🏭 Tucked away at Highland Court Farm in Bridge, Canterbury, Bee Equipment Ltd carved out quite a name for themselves in British beekeeping. Sadly, November 2024 saw this cherished supplier enter liquidation proceedings. Let’s look back at what made them special.
A Legacy of Local Craftsmanship
Before closing their doors, these Kent craftspeople brought something special to British beekeeping. Their workshop hummed with activity, producing:
- Beautiful British bees on National and Langstroth frames
- Carefully crafted hives in every standard style
- Quality protective gear to keep you safe
- Smart extraction equipment for your honey harvest
- Cosy poly nucleus boxes for your colonies
Their winter-hardy British bees, lovingly tended in their own apiaries, helped countless beekeepers start their journey.
Foundation for Success
While they mightn’t have matched Thorne’s millions of foundation sheets, their carefully sourced wax foundation fitted perfectly with their frame systems. Quality over quantity – that was their way!
Prices That Made Sense
Smart beekeepers loved their value-packed deals, especially during sale season. Their self-assembly hives at £122 caught many an eye, though some found them quite the puzzle to put together! Many thought the £50 pre-assembly option worth every penny – sometimes saving time beats saving pennies!
Delivery Tales
Like honey from different hives, experiences varied with their delivery service. Some customers received their treasures promptly, while others waited 5-6 weeks for their parcels to arrive. Their TrustPilot story showed they responded to 33% of concerns within a week, with Amy and Odette earning special praise for sorting out any hiccups. 🐝
National Bee Supplies (Devon)
Image Source: National Bee Supplies
🏠 Tucked away in Okehampton’s Hameldown House, National Bee Supplies crafts some of Devon’s finest beekeeping equipment. What started as one perfectionist’s dream has blossomed into something rather special – where quality trumps quantity every single time!
Cedar Beauties That Last a Lifetime
Want to know their secret? Nothing but the finest Canadian Western Red Cedar touches their hives (except the frames, of course). Their motto says it all: “the best value hive is the one you don’t have to replace”. Every piece of FSC-certified cedar gets properly seasoned, creating hives that laugh in the face of woodworm and stand strong through the seasons.
Ready to discover their range?
- National Complete Hives that’ll make you smile (from £478 with super)
- Classic WBC Complete Hives (starting at £545)
- Commercial Complete Hives for serious beekeepers (£502 with super)
Each hive tells a story of craftsmanship, with perfect bee spaces that stay true even as the wood dances with the weather.
Tools That Make Life Sweeter
Beyond beautiful hives, their tool collection will have you working like a pro! Choose from:
- Heavy Duty J-Type Hive Tool (£12.95) – built to last
- Stainless Steel Hive Tool With Claw (£12.95) – your new best friend
- Handy Hive Tool (£7.50) – perfect for beginners
Keep yourself safe with their ventilated suits (£144.95) or start simple with leather gloves (£15.50). Those clever frame cleaners (£8.50) and queen excluder cleaners (£11.50) make maintenance a breeze!
Service That Makes You Buzz
Pop by Monday through Friday (9am-5pm) for Click & Collect, or let them bring the goods to you within 3-5 working days. Sleep easy knowing their 10-year guarantee has you covered.
Need a chat? Ring 0344 326 2010 during business hours. And here’s something to make your heart sing – their 25-acre nature haven project is busy planting mini-forests for our buzzing friends. Now that’s what we call thinking ahead! 🐝💚
Abelo Beekeeping Equipment (Oxfordshire)
Image Source: Abelo
🏢 Ready to discover the future of beekeeping? Nestled in Oxfordshire, Abelo crafts poly hives that make traditional beekeepers stop and stare. These clever innovators have sweetened the deal for British beekeepers looking for something different.
Poly Perfection That Makes Hearts Flutter
Ever wondered what makes Abelo’s high-density polystyrene hives special? At 160g/litre, these beauties keep your colonies cosy while standing strong. Straight from the box, they’re painted and ready to welcome their first residents, with clever rigid plastic protection top and bottom. Best of all? They’ll shake hands with your wooden National kit – same size, same style, just lighter and warmer!
Their National Poly Hive with Deep Roof houses 11 Hoffman frames in perfect harmony. Fancy something bigger? Their 12 Frame National Poly Hive brings space and style together with fully rebated boxes.
Clever Ideas That Make You Smile
Who says you can’t teach old bees new tricks? Their 12-frame system comes with all the bells and whistles – top bee space, snug interlocking parts, and clever protection against enthusiastic hive tool action. Those poly nucleus boxes? They click together like they were made for each other (because they were!).
Feeding time made simple with their Poly Ashforth Feeder (£42-£45) – perfect for syrup or fondant, with room for 10L of sweet stuff!
Sweet Prices That Won’t Sting
Take your pick from these honey-sweet deals:
- National Poly Hive with Deep Roof: £175-£272 (depends how fancy you’re feeling)
- 12 Frame National Poly Hive: £211-£303.50 (frames and foundation if you fancy)
- National Poly Brood Box: £35.50-£39.95
- National Poly Super Box: £30.50-£35.50
Watch out for those bulk buy bargains and show special prices!
Care That Counts
Looking after your poly palace is easier than you’d think. A dab of their special glue (£10.54) here, a touch of filler (£9.36) there, and any little scratches disappear. Pop some Vaseline on those runners and say goodbye to unwanted water. Because great equipment deserves great care! 🐝💛
BBwear (Cumbria)
👔 Want to feel like you’re wearing a suit of armour while staying cool as a cucumber? BBwear’s premium bee suits, crafted with love in Cornwall, keep you safe and comfortable through every inspection. These protective wear wizards focus on one thing only – keeping you sting-free and smiling!
Suits That Make You Feel Invincible!
Choose your perfect partner from three brilliant options:
- Basic Bee Suit (£189.99) – twin neck zips, handy breast pockets, and snug elastic bits
- Deluxe Bee Suit (£224.99) – waterproof knees for those muddy days, plus clever thumb loops
- Ultra Bee Suit (£429.99) – the crown jewel with 5mm thick material that laughs in the face of any sting!
The Ultra suit’s so tough it’s been tested against everything from honey bees to those pesky Asian hornets. Now that’s what we call protection!
Perfect Fit For Every Body
Forget one-size-fits-none! BBwear’s sizing runs from tiny to tremendous (XS to XXL), but that’s just the beginning. Their special cut service measures you in ten different places – from your noggin to your knees. Worth every penny of the extra fee (£35 for Basic/Deluxe, £50 for Ultra).
Materials That Make Magic
Talk about clever engineering! The Ultra range’s fancy 3D fabric lets 100% airflow whoosh through, while regular suits manage just 12%. Here’s what happy beekeepers say:
“Summer inspections? No more sweaty squinting when hunting for eggs!” “Surrounded by angry bees and not a single sting – outstanding!”
Value That Lasts and Lasts
Yes, they’re not cheap – but neither is replacing suits every season! These beauties last 15+ years when loved properly. With their “Long Life Guarantee” and 28-day returns, you can’t go wrong.
One wise beekeeper puts it perfectly: “Learn from my mistake – that cheap suit lasted half a season. Buy quality, buy once!”
Ready to suit up in style? Your bees won’t know what hit them (or rather, what didn’t!) 🐝💛
Sherriff Beesuits (Yorkshire)
Image Source: Talking With Bees
👑 Why settle for ordinary when you can wear beekeeping royalty? Since 1968, B.J. Sherriff has been stitching magic into every suit, turning their honey farm solution into Britain’s most prestigious protective wear!
Suits Fit for The Queen’s Beekeeper!
Talk about standing the test of time – their legendary Apiarist suit has been protecting happy beekeepers for over 47 years! Some lucky souls are still buzzing around in their 1980s Sherriffs, looking as dapper as ever. These beauties come packed with clever touches – rugged zips that never fail, stitching that refuses to give up, and those brilliant thumb loops that keep everything just where it should be!
Ready to join the Sherriff family? Choose from:
- The classic Apiarist (£269-£279) – tried, tested, and totally brilliant
- The breezy white nylon Beekeeper (£295) – perfect for those scorching summer days
- The professional BeePro – when only the best will do
Even the Queen’s beekeeper and Martha Kearney from Radio Four trust Sherriff to keep them safe – just spot that gorgeous powder blue suit on TV!
Crafted with Love in Cornwall
Step into their Cornwall workshop and watch the magic happen! Every suit tells a story of craftsmanship, especially those clever ClearView veils with their hundreds of tiny holes – keeping you cool while telling stings to buzz off!
Fun fact: these fabric wizards started in lingerie! That’s why their hooded veils and twin-zip innovations changed beekeeping fashion forever. Each suit even gets its own special serial number – talk about attention to detail!
Perfect Fit? Absolutely!
Whether you’re short, tall, or somewhere in between, Sherriff’s got you covered! Their sizing runs from teeny-tiny Extra Small right up to magnificent EEEEEL. Just grab your tape measure and follow their super-simple guide – height, chest, legs, the works!
Need something extra special? Their bespoke service measures you in eleven different places! Just remember their golden rule: “Please don’t guess your measurements” – their friendly team is always ready to help!
Ready to feel like beekeeping royalty? Your perfect Sherriff suit is waiting! 👔🐝
Hatton Lodge Apiary (Cheshire)
Image Source: hattonlodgeapiary.co.uk
🏡 Fancy a taste of local beekeeping heaven? Tucked away on Warrington Road in Hatton, this family-run gem serves up Thorne’s finest equipment with a generous helping of Cheshire charm!
Service Sweet as Honey
Need a chat about equipment? Ring their friendly team on 01925 263023 or 07778 592835. They’ll make sure your journey’s worthwhile – just give them a buzz before popping in!
Want to spread your wings? Their beekeeping classes turn curious minds into confident apiarists. No wonder Mid-Cheshire beekeepers can’t stop singing their praises!
Treasures That Make Your Heart Buzz
Whether you’re hunting for complete hives or specialised tools, these Thorne agents stock everything to make your apiary thrive. But wait – there’s more! Their handcrafted treats will have you buzzing with joy:
- Heavenly Beeswax & Honey Soaps (£3.50-£4.00)
- Dreamy Moisture Creams (60ml £8.00, 30ml £4.00)
- Delicious Scented Lip Balms (£3.50)
Their “Bee Pampered” collection works pure magic with goat’s milk, rose geranium, and lavender. Talk about nature’s finest!
Prices Sweet Enough to Share
Why pay more for shipping when Hatton Lodge brings Thorne’s quality right to your doorstep? Grab their 2025 Price List from their website and discover options for every pocket. From budget-friendly hives to classic cedar beauties, there’s something to make every beekeeper smile! 🐝💛
Freeman & Harding (Oxfordshire)
Image Source: Freeman Harding
🍯 Sweet success starts with perfect presentation! Since 1992, Freeman & Harding has been helping beekeepers show off their liquid gold in style. From their busy hub in Erith, Kent, these packaging perfectionists know exactly how to make your honey shine!
Not Just Another Glove Story!
Funny thing – while you might spot their name in glove directories, these clever folks stick to what they do best: beautiful honey containers! No scattered approach here – just pure packaging excellence that makes your honey look as good as it tastes.
Brilliant Boxes and Perfect Pots
Their star player? The genius “Special Beekeeper Pack” – born from watching beekeeping groups juggle jars and lids. These thoughtfully designed cartons keep your jars clean, lids matched, and pesky insects out.
That half-pound screw neck traditional honey jar still steals the show at honey shows! And here’s some sweet wisdom – while their glass jars stay pure and chemical-free, they’ll tell you straight: fresh lids mean happy customers.
Service That Makes You Smile
Three decades of delighting beekeepers – now that’s something special! Pop by the Spring Convention or National Honey Show and you’ll spot three generations of the family working side by side.
Their promise? “Making your life easier, less stressful and more enjoyable!”. No wonder beekeepers buzz about their “can do” spirit and honest approach. When you need reliable service as much as your bees need flowers, Freeman & Harding delivers every time!
Support quality. Present perfectly. Love your honey. 🍯💛
Modern Beekeeping (Northern Ireland)
Image Source: Institute of Northern Ireland Beekeepers | INIB
🍀 Want to taste a slice of Irish beekeeping innovation? Modern Beekeeping brings Northern Ireland’s finest equipment right to your doorstep! From traditional cedar beauties to cutting-edge poly hives, they’re making British beekeeping better one hive at a time.
Treasures That Make Your Apiary Sing!
What started as a wee local supplier has blossomed into something rather special! Their shelves burst with goodies like cedar British National hives from £170.51, alongside clever tools for every pocket – from American long hive tools (£8.50) to budget-friendly stainless steel helpers (£6.00).
Ready to start your beekeeping adventure? Choose your perfect partner:
- British National starter kits (£349.00) – traditional excellence
- Paradise Honey Langstroth kits (£330.00) – Finnish innovation
- Honey Paw Langstroth kits (£352.01) – built for British weather
Fancy showing off your honey harvest? Their jar collection will make your golden nectar sparkle:
- 8oz hexagonal beauties (£58.80-£62.40 per 108)
- 12oz hexagonal treasures (£55.39-£59.40 per 84)
- 1lb round jars with gleaming gold lids (£69.60-£72.00 per 72)
Poly Hives That Make Winter Worry Less!
Say goodbye to chilly colonies and hello to cosy bees! Their Paradise Honey British National poly hives keep your colonies snug as a bug:
- Complete hive with brood box: £122.50
- Full setup with two supers: £189.50
Those clever Finnish Honey Paw hives? Built tough as tanks with density over 100kg/m³! Every bit included – roof to varroa mesh, all ready for British weather at its worst.
Delivery That Doesn’t Disappoint
Orders wing their way to you in 1-2 working days (up to 7 in busy times). Mainland UK? Lovely! Scottish Highlands or Islands? Just allow an extra couple of days and a wee bit more for postage (IV, HS, ZE, KW, AB36-38, AB55-56 postcodes).
Whether you’re in Cornwall or Caithness, Modern Beekeeping brings Irish innovation to your apiary. Because great beekeeping knows no borders! 🐝💚
Park Beekeeping (Hampshire)
Image Source: portsmouthbeekeepers.co.uk
📚 Where Hampshire’s beekeeping dreams take flight! Park Beekeeping isn’t just another equipment shop – it’s where wisdom meets wonder, and every visitor leaves a little bit wiser about our buzzing friends.
More Than Just Equipment – It’s an Adventure!
Want to taste the sweetest side of beekeeping? Their Bee and Honey Weekend with Fareham & District Beekeepers will have you spellbound! Peek into observation hives, savour golden honey, and watch the experts work their magic – no booking needed!
From basic bits and bobs to clever queen-rearing gadgets, they’ve got everything to make your beekeeping journey smoother than fresh comb. Because great equipment deserves great knowledge!
Perfect Start for Newbees
Dreaming of your first colony? Park Beekeeping’s starter packages wrap everything you need in a bundle of confidence! Regular seasonal courses put you right beside the hives, where real learning happens.
Best of all? You’re never alone on this honey-making adventure. Their mentorship keeps you buzzing long after your first hive tool touches wax. Every beginner gets:
- Protective gear that fits just right
- Quality tools to start your journey
- Wisdom packed into easy-to-follow guides
Workshop Wonderland
Step into their purpose-built teaching paradise! Watch seasoned beekeepers work their magic from safe observation points before trying your own hand at the craft. Their workshop calendar buzzes with activity:
- Hive assembly masterclasses
- Honey extraction workshops
- Hands-on colony management sessions
Knowledge at Your Fingertips
Can’t make it to Hampshire? Their online treasure trove keeps you learning! Dive into video tutorials, seasonal guides, and blog posts that tackle real beekeeping challenges. Download practical guides that turn tricky tasks like swarm prevention into second nature.
Support learning. Grow confident. Love beekeeping. 🐝📖
The Bee Shop (East Anglia)
!Image
Image Source: Ideastream Public Media
🏪 Looking for East Anglia’s sweetest secret? The Bee Shop in Ipswich knows exactly what Suffolk’s bees and beekeepers need! From foundation to feeding equipment, they’re helping local apiaries thrive in our eastern corner of Britain.
Local Knowledge, Local Love!
When Suffolk’s weather throws a wobbly or the local flora plays tricks, The Bee Shop’s wisdom shines through! Their team understands every twist and turn of East Anglian beekeeping, helping you pick exactly what your colonies need to flourish.
Everything Your Bees Could Dream Of!
Fancy some fresh foundation? Hunting for the perfect hive tool? Their shelves burst with beekeeping brilliance! From protective gear that keeps you smiling to extraction equipment that makes honey flow like dreams, they’ve got it all.
Their beeswax treasures deserve a special buzz:
- Whopping 1kg blocks at £22.00
- Pocket-sized 27g beauties for just £1.50
Plus those golden extras – royal jelly, propolis, and pollen – perfect for turning your hobby into something sweeter!
Prices Sweet As Honey
Whether you’re tending two hives or two hundred, their prices won’t sting your wallet! Quality kit at prices that make sense – now that’s something worth buzzing about!
Service That Makes You Smile
Pop in any day of the week:
- Monday-Friday: 10am-7pm
- Saturday: 10am-6pm
- Sunday: 11am-5pm
Their friendly faces know their stuff – from beginner questions to commercial quandaries!
Delivery Right To Your Door
Can’t make it to Ipswich? No worries! Spend over £100 online or £200 by phone, and your goodies buzz their way to you free of charge! Their trusty partners (Parcel Force and FedEx) handle the heavy lifting (2kg+), making sure your equipment arrives safe and sound.
Support local. Keep bees happy. Love beekeeping. 🐝💛
Conclusion
Sweet success in beekeeping starts with choosing the right tools! Britain’s beekeeping landscape blooms with brilliant suppliers, each bringing something special to the honey table. From Thorne’s cedar craftsmanship that stands the test of time to BBwear’s sting-proof wizardry, quality flows like nectar through every offering.
Watching the pennies? Maisemore’s “Rock Bottom” range and Paynes’ clever poly nucs help you start without the sting! But just like our precious colonies invest in strong hives, experienced beekeepers often choose Sherriff’s premium suits or National Bee Supplies’ guaranteed cedar beauties for the long haul.
Think of quality equipment as the foundation comb of successful beekeeping. Whether you’re dreaming of your first colony or expanding your buzzing empire, these trusted British suppliers offer more than just tools – they’re sharing decades of wisdom through workshops, practical guidance, and friendly advice.
Remember, just as bees choose the finest flowers for their honey, smart beekeepers invest in equipment that stands the test of time. Because when you’re dancing with thousands of tiny pollinators, you want gear as reliable as the sunrise!
Support quality. Choose wisely. Love beekeeping. 🐝💛
FAQs
Q1. What type of beehive is most suitable for UK beekeepers? The British Standard (BS) National hive is widely considered the best choice for UK beekeepers, especially beginners. It’s well-suited to British bees and climate, with widely available and affordable compatible parts.
Q2. How much can a beekeeper earn in the UK? A beekeeper in the UK can earn an average salary of £35,394 per year. However, income can vary significantly based on the number of colonies managed and how the bees and their products are utilised commercially.
Q3. Which beekeeping equipment suppliers are most renowned in Britain? While there’s no single largest supplier, companies like Thorne Beekeeping Equipment, National Bee Supplies, and E.H. Thorne are among the most well-known and respected in the UK for their quality products and long-standing reputations.
Q4. What’s the typical cost of a beehive in the UK? Beehive prices in the UK vary widely depending on the type, material, and supplier. For example, a complete National timber hive from Thorne’s can cost around £165, while poly hives may be priced differently. It’s best to check current price lists from various suppliers for the most accurate information.
Q5. What should I consider when choosing a beekeeping equipment supplier? When selecting a beekeeping equipment supplier, consider factors such as product quality, range of offerings, pricing, customer service, and delivery options. Some suppliers, like Park Beekeeping, also offer educational resources and workshops, which can be valuable for both new and experienced beekeepers.
References
– https://www.thorne.co.uk/about-us?srsltid=AfmBOoonbJJUJ_11lXhylihEgHR_2ekM7LVQj92RLuK2NhQlq4-RIe0V
– https://www.mantelfarm.co.uk/latest-news/new-thornes-beekeeping-shop/
– https://www.lincolnshirelife.co.uk/heritage/the-busy-bees-of-rand/
– https://www.thorne.co.uk/hives-and-bees/beginners-kits?srsltid=AfmBOoq0vvG9Xo0-gADfSZm_mfnLiDHzAWRZhN91XEGXDzM1A0TzP6kF
– https://uk.linkedin.com/company/e-h-thorne-beehives
– https://www.thorne.co.uk/Spring-shows/?srsltid=AfmBOor8Fog7iIYS31KIseOGDdd6fVuLFwffdknJ0l5nnwuKFRQ9heRB
– https://www.thorne.co.uk/?srsltid=AfmBOopRMOcBEH6cDzk2sNuM5MKasgLQMHpOu6wlQWIbOqtAQC1WbJMm
– https://dunblanebeekeepers.com/thornes-bulk-discount/
– https://www.thorne.co.uk/special-offers/?srsltid=AfmBOoqjLeXgdPH0B5GkvglPgNHmeSZzYtDsdYI3AU2J_XN0h-PRse0_
– https://www.cwynnejones.com/16-frames-and-hive-parts
– https://www.cwynnejones.com/national-polystyrene-hives-parts/256-poly-hive-national.html
– https://www.cwynnejones.com/langstroth-polystyrene-hives-parts/580-langstroth-poly-hive.html
– https://www.cwynnejones.com/langstroth-polystyrene-hives-parts/934-langstroth-poly-hive.html
– https://www.visit-gloucestershire.co.uk/directory/listing/maisemore-apiaries
– https://bees-online.co.uk/about-us/?srsltid=AfmBOopFLSme2dcR3DcPE4R2pFiHrFM5vVYa1zM3F81kMpKEfTwN4LFA
– https://www.caddon-hives.co.uk/Frames-and-Wax/Foundation/
– https://www.instagram.com/maisemore_apiaries_ltd/
– https://bees-online.co.uk/?srsltid=AfmBOoqVGTZxlQQVkwTB4pjXBZgo0mDaCnEc5XA0762c99HIS90Ua8MO
– https://bees-online.co.uk/?srsltid=AfmBOoplviD9KC1i0Z5aXiOyJ2H-GC6OzvjE3Fgzk_e234RjZf4OrooS
– https://talkingwithbees.com/maisemore-beekeeping-equipment-supplier
– https://simonthebeekeeper.co.uk/collections/paynes-poly-hives-nucs
– https://paynesbeefarm.co.uk/collections/beginner-kits?srsltid=AfmBOorV7GWucAVapPbzoAk1pDxKfXFCjsyKCPDCA0Iho4Un2F7FJx35
– https://hassocks.cylex-uk.co.uk/company/paynes-southdown-bee-farms-ltd-14540527.html
– https://paynesbeefarm.co.uk/pages/click-collect-service?srsltid=AfmBOoqIUE7pQbRPl9O4AT2toqVtmLZEfBHIi6zsluzJGZed55ca_TvW
– https://paynesbeefarm.co.uk/pages/contact-us?srsltid=AfmBOopDgjZvS-0CeKyYaVcKDEW_2TusxKGnK4b5OlLvem5ZRL2r-XAi
– https://beekeeping.co.uk/pages/about-us
– https://beekeeping.co.uk/collections/hives
– https://beekeeping.co.uk/collections/hive-tools
– https://beekeeping.co.uk/collections/clothing-tools
– https://beekeeping.co.uk/
– https://beekeeping.co.uk/pages/contact-us
– https://beekeeping.co.uk/pages/delivery-information
– https://www.abelo.co.uk/shop/page/25/?orderby=price
– https://www.abelo.co.uk/shop/national-hive/12-frame-premium-national-poly-hive/12-frame-premium-national-poly-hive/
– https://www.abelo.co.uk/beekeeping-category/national-hive/poly-hives-national/
– https://www.abelo.co.uk/
– https://www.abelo.co.uk/shop/national-hive/poly-hives-national/national-poly-hive-with-2-supers-new/
– https://www.bbwear.co.uk/shop/clothing/bee-suits
– https://www.bbwear.co.uk/deluxe-bee-suit
– https://www.bbwear.co.uk/ultra-bee-suit
– https://www.bbwear.co.uk/shop/clothing/size-guide
– https://www.bbwear.co.uk/review/product/listAjax/id/3564/?limit=20
– https://www.bjsherriff.co.uk/the-business-of-bees/
– https://www.betterbee.com/jackets-and-suits/suits36-apiarist-suit.asp?srsltid=AfmBOooB2OpLY4ywfFVajkqiuewimaGlPiGhEZmXDBBa7REsdStCeTj0
– https://www.bjsherriff.co.uk/?wc-api=WC_Quick_View&product=724&width=60%&height=60%&ajax=true
– https://www.bjsherriff.com/
– https://www.bjsherriff.com/product-category/beekeeping-clothing/bee-suits/
– https://www.bjsherriff.com/size-chart/
– https://www.bjsherriff.com/size-guide/
– https://hattonlodgeapiary.co.uk/
– https://midcheshirebeekeepers.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Mid-Cheshire-Starter-Pack-2023.pdf
– https://hattonlodgeapiary.co.uk/services/
– https://hattonlodgeapiary.co.uk/our-products/
– https://www.freemanharding.co.uk/content/honey-jars-and-glass-jars-for-beekeepers-and-special-beekeeper-packs?srsltid=AfmBOoqVys9DM1Baq4hwvaD6X3V4oIwb0BDyfpqm4-oWNEJ3fp3T0u5O
– https://www.freemanharding.co.uk/content/about-us-freeman-harding-ltd?srsltid=AfmBOorYPoA2FZvbR1l80zBfFLjkZRA3pmsCWqrR-gPKFk3jKpMbYj6T
– https://www.modernbeekeeping.co.uk/modern-beekeeping
– https://www.modernbeekeeping.co.uk/honey-jars-packaging
– https://www.modernbeekeeping.co.uk/british-national-complete-hive-with-1-brood-box
– https://www.modernbeekeeping.co.uk/langstroth-polystyrene-hive-with-two-supers-33
– https://www.modernbeekeeping.co.uk/delivery-information
– https://www.hants.gov.uk/thingstodo/countryparks/manorfarm/plan-your-visit/events/Bee-and-Honey-Weekend
– https://hampshirebeekeepers.org.uk/beekeeping-courses-for-beginners/
– https://www.perfectbee.com/beekeeping-articles/a-new-beekeepers-journal/educational-resources-for-new-beekeepers