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Beekeeping Experience

Join beekeeper Tim Vivian for a beekeeping experience with the hives in the Walled Garden at Hanbury Hall on Sunday 21st June.

  • Booking essential

During this 90-minute experience we will open an active hive so you can see how these amazing insects arrange their home. Following the experience, enjoy a hot drink and a cake in the Courtyard Kitchen, included in your ticket price.

The session can be as hands on as you like, and you will have the opportunity to lift out a section of the hive to see the bees 'up close and personal'. We will carry out the inspection that a beekeeper would do and talk about all the things of interest as we look through the hive. You are welcome to take photos at any time.

Before we start you will be required to put on a full protective bee suit and gloves. This is provided – please let us know which size you require at the checkout. After a brief safety talk we will go to the apiary to visit the bees that live there.

Please note, despite all the protective gear, be aware that there is a small chance of being stung. This is not the experience for you if you know you are allergic to bee or wasp stings.

Tim has been keeping bees for nearly 30 years, at Hanbury Hall and also on the roof of a number of buildings in Birmingham. He is the vice-President of Worcestershire Beekeeping Association, an organisation that Lady Georgina Vernon of Hanbury Hall helped to set up in 1882.

Times

Prices

Event ticket prices

Ticket typeTicket category
Adult per person£60.00

The basics

Booking details

Call 0344 249 1895

Suitability

Not suitable for children

Meeting point

In the Walled Garden. The hives are located to the left hand side when you walk through the gates.

What to bring and wear

Please wear closed toe shoes or wellies if you have them. Beekeeping suits and gloves will be provided.

Accessibility

There is level access to get to the Walled Garden where the bee hives are located. Mobility vehicles are available to hire free of charge, please call the office on 01527 821214 to book. The Access Vehicle runs daily from 10am - 4pm to transport visitors from the car park up to the Hall and Stableyard and back. There is an accessible toilet located in the Courtyard Kitchen.

Other

Spectators are allowed but are advised to watch at a safe distance to avoid being stung. There will be a secure area to store your belongings during the experience. Please be aware, if you book for the 4pm session, you will need to redeem your food and drink voucher at the Courtyard Kitchen before your beekeeping experience starts. Please ensure you arrive early to avoid disappointment.

Upcoming events

February half-term: Cupid's Quest 

Join us for Cupid's Quest - Follow the trail inspired by Cupid around the gardens and take part in the Cupid Crafts in the Long Gallery.

Event summary

on
15 Feb to 22 Feb 2026
at 10:00 to 16:00+ 7 other dates or times

Mindful Photography Walks 

Join Hanbury Hall photographer Mike Dixon for a relaxed walk and talk around the formal gardens as he shares handy tips and tricks for photographing nature and the outdoors.

Event summary

on
17 Feb to 14 Jul 2026
at 10:00 to 11:30+ 5 other dates or times

Books and Babyccinos 

Bring along your little ones for storytelling, babyccinos, sensory toys and colouring activities in the historic spaces in the Courtyard Kitchen.

Event summary

on
18 Feb to 25 Mar 2026
at 10:00 to 11:30+ 5 other dates or times

Guided Parkland Walks 

Discover the history of Hanbury Hall’s parkland on a guided walk with one of our experienced volunteer guides.

Event summary

on
21 Feb to 28 Mar 2026
at 11:00 to 12:30+ 5 other dates or times