Welcome
We are a friendly and active beekeeping association with members in Ashford and the surrounding villages.
Whether you are just starting out in beekeeping or are a seasoned beekeeper with years of experience, you are welcome to join us.
If you are not ready to get your own bees yet, our 'friend' membership means you can get involved and learn more before you take the plunge. There are lots of things you can do to help support bees in and around Ashford.
Be Alert!
Asian hornet advice
The Yellow-Legged Asian Hornet is a highly aggressive predator which poses a significant threat to honey bees and other pollinators in the UK. Numbers of the destructive insect have risen rapidly so reporting any possible sightings is crucial.
How to Identify Yellow-Legged Asian Hornet
1. Does it look very black?
2. Has it got a wide orange stripe on the 4th segment of the abdomen?
3. Do its legs look as if they have been dipped in yellow paint?
See it. Snap it. App it
If you think you spot an Asian hornet, then report it immediately. Take a photo. and upload the best way to report any sightings is via the 'Asian Hornet Watch' app.
The home screen of the App allows users to check similar species and report a sighting. A photo is requested as the key to identification. Date and location are auto-completed and brief comments can be included. A reminder about personal safety is also included. Reporting can lead to investigation and nest destruction which is vital for eradication.
BEE RESPONSIBLE and know the diseases
We're passionate about sharing our knowledge
With decades of experience to share, our club members support each other on their beekeeping journeys.
Join one of our beginner courses at our club apiary in Ruckinge near Ashford or get in touch to know more about how the club can assist you in moving through the BBKA training modules and advancing to become a master beekeeper.
Looking for local honey?
The health benefits of local honey are no secret, studies have shown that it's a good source of antioxidants, help with digestive issues, can soothe a sore throat and cough and aids hayfever sufferers.
Our honey is as pure as it comes - with no added nasties, it's just as the bees intended from a single source, our apiary in Ruckinge, Ashford.
You can buy our club honey through our online store, just click the links below to enjoy the benefits of pure, local Kentish honey direct from our Apiary.
8oz jar of local Honey
2 x 8oz jars of local Honey
2 x 8oz jars of honey & stick
Community outreach
We regularly visit schools, groups and community centres to share our love and passion for beekeeping.
We understand the importance of inspiring children... they are the future beekeepers that will continue to advocate and protect our beloved bees.
'Friendship & knowledge through beekeeping'
Come along to one of our club events
Notes from the Apiary
Each month our Apiary manager, Micheal shares essential info and the buzz from our club hives.
January '25
Feed & keep warm
February '25
Storm protection & feeding
March '25
Winter losses and first inspections
April '25
Early starts & planning splits
Have you registered your hives on Bee Base?
Knowing the distribution of beekeepers and their apiaries across the country helps Bee Base to effectively monitor and control the spread of serious honey bee pests and diseases
