Barnsley Beekeepers

Keeping Bees

In this section we look at some of the background issues behind bee keeping. What it’s all about, why keep bees, what to do and when, equipment, etc. We only cover a few of the main issues, so always remember that you can’t beat reading a good book (or several good books) on the subject. BIBBA have produced an excellent "Introduction to Beekeeping" eLearning course which could help you to work out if beekeeping is for you: from there you can join us for our beginners' course which happens each spring.

Why keep bees?

There are several reasons why people like to keep bees. These may include an interest in social insects, producing one’s own honey, selling honey, a love for nature in general and the important part played by bees in pollinating plants. Some may of course do it for the challenge of dealing with insects that are essentially wild creatures.

Getting Started
Equipment
Clothing
The Hive
Beekeeping Year
The Apiary