Beekeeping
Overview of the Course
Welcome to our One-Day Beekeeping Course in Devon! Whether you’re looking to start your own honeybee colony or simply learn a new skill, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Everyone is welcome!
In the UK, we’ve already lost 13 species of bees, and another 35 are at risk. This course is special because it teaches you not just how to care for bees, but how to help protect them. You’ll gain hands-on experience while learning about different beekeeping methods and how to choose the one that works best for you. You’ll be taught by Steve Minshall, co-author of the River Cottage Bee and Honey Handbook, with fermentation guru Rachel de Thample. Steve manages our various hives spread across the farm at River Cottage and will assist you in selecting the right hive for both you and the bees.
The morning begins with essential theory lessons, followed by hands-on practice with the bees in different hives around River Cottage.
After the morning session, enjoy a two-course lunch prepared by our chefs, featuring creative dishes inspired by honey.
In the afternoon, you’ll dive deeper into hive inspections and learn how to safely handle and care for your bees. Topics will include feeding, disease prevention, and weather protection.
By the end of the day, you’ll have the knowledge to start your own bee colony, what equipment you need, where to get it, and a strong understanding of the beekeeping process. Plus, you’ll finish with a few more lessons and a chance to sample some delicious honey treats created by our chefs.
Your Beekeeping Course Highlights
- Learn the fundamentals of beekeeping and how to start your own honeybee colony.
- Explore different beekeeping methods and discover the right one for you.
- Gain hands-on experience with various types of hives around River Cottage.
- Receive expert instruction from Steve Minshall, author of the River Cottage Bee and Honey Handbook.
- Enjoy a two-course honey-inspired lunch prepared by River Cottage chefs.
- Dive deep into hive inspections, learning bee care, disease prevention, and more.
- Leave with the knowledge to start your beekeeping journey, including equipment essentials.
Your day
10:00 - 17:00
Make yourself at home
Start your day by meeting your hosts and enjoying tea, coffee, and a tasting of various honeys, including our own River Cottage honey.
SESSION ONE
Tutor Steve will guide you through the fundamentals of beekeeping, covering reasons to keep bees, honey bee behavior, different hive types, and the necessary equipment.
SESSION TWO
Get suited up and walk to the first of the River Cottage apiaries. There, you’ll see different hive styles, meet our bees, and gain hands-on experience with our colonies.
LUNCH
At River Cottage, food is always a highlight! Enjoy a two-course seasonal lunch made from local ingredients, featuring delicious honey.
SESSION THREE
In the second practical session, visit the second River Cottage apiary to examine a beehive in detail. Learn how to inspect a hive, care for the bees, and maintain safety. Steve will also showcase the various hive types on the farm, including our Rocket hive (as seen on River Cottage Reunited), a Warre hive, and a Top Bar hive.
SESSION FOUR
Savor treats from the kitchen featuring honey, while diving deeper into the essential steps to set up your own hive and establish your bee colony.
DEPARTURE
Before heading back up the hill, there will be time to chat with fellow participants and talk to Steve, all while holding your course notes.
Further Information
Directions
This course is run from River Cottage HQ on the Dorset/Devon borders. Full address details of HQ will be provided once you have booked.
Licensed Venue
We are a licensed venue. We have a wide selection of the finest organic wines available to purchase.
Accommodation
If you would like to stay at the heart of River Cottage, we offer overnight accommodation at River Cottage HQ in our beautiful 17th century farmhouse. We have three stylishly refurbished bedrooms for B&B plus the 2-bedroom Gardener's Cottage. These get booked quickly so for more information go to rivercottage.net/stay to book. Alternatively, we have put together a list of our local accommodation which includes B&Bs, self-catering, hotels and camping.
Suitability
We would advise that this course is only really suitable for 12 years of age and upwards. Under 16s must be accompanied by a paying adult. We put these guidelines in place for the safety, comfort and enjoyment of all our guests.
Allergy Advice
Sorry, we’re afraid this course is not suitable for those with allergies or specific dietary requirements. However we do run courses that are gluten free, vegetarian and vegan friendly. Please get in touch if you have any questions or need further details.
