Getting started in beekeeping
Beekeeping is an addictive and rewarding pastime. Many of us develop “bee fever” — a strong desire to be with and talk about our bees. The active season runs from April to September, with winter spent planning for the year ahead.
What do I need to get started?
- Membership of Conwy Beekeepers or your local association
- Protective clothing (£50–£279 depending on quality)
- National beehive (recommended UK standard)
- Nucleus of bees (~£200, locally raised preferred)
- Smoker, hive tool and feeder (~£35)
- Course fee (~£150)
See also: Buying and selling nucs and The price of nucs.
When should I get my bees?
We recommend buying locally raised bees from a trusted beekeeper.
- Swarms: May–June
- Overwintered nucs: May
- Current-year nucs: June–early July
Avoid buying bees late in the season — you may struggle to get them through winter.
Equipment suppliers
- E.H. Thorne (UK’s largest supplier)
- C. Wynne Jones (local agent, Ruthin)
Where can I learn?
- Taster days – introduction only
- Two-day courses – enough to get started, with support
- Courses in North Wales
- Hands-on apiary sessions (April–August)
“We always learn so much at the meetings.”
Support for new beekeepers
- Regular apiary meetings
- Mentoring from local members
- Strong encouragement not to work in isolation
Books and online resources
- The Bee Manual – recommended
- AbeBooks – secondhand books
- Dave Cushman’s site
- Beekeeping Forum
- YouTube channels
Local events
- Conwy Seed Fair – 26 March 2026
- Conwy Honey Fair – 12 September 2026
We attend local shows and welcome new beekeepers.
Contact the Secretary: secretary@conwybeekeepers.org.uk
Updated November 2025