What You'll Do

Inside the Superorganism
Before stepping into the apiary, enjoy an engaging visual briefing in our classroom. Learn how a colony of 50,000 bees functions as a single intelligent organism, discover how comb architecture and pheromones work, and know exactly what to look for—from fresh brood and waggle dances to the Queen herself.

Suit Up & Inspection
Step into full professional protective gear and head into the apiary with our expert beekeepers. Open active colonies, hold frames teeming with live bees, feel the natural warmth and vibration of the hive, and experience safe, hands-on beekeeping up close.

Guided Honey Tasting
Finish your journey with a tutored tasting of single-apiary, unpasteurised honeys harvested across Greater Manchester and beyond. Sample at least five distinct profiles, taste fresh comb honey (season permitting), and learn how hyper-local microclimates shape each jar's flavour and texture.
Vince C
Had a great and very interesting afternoon with Gareth and Louise. This was bought as a gift but learnt loads and found it fascinating.
Gareth and Louise were very friendly and knowledgable plus there was lots of actual hands-on experience with the bees.
If you’ve ever thought about it, I’d strongly recommend giving it a go
★★★★★
Tracie W
Had the most enjoyable few hours with Gareth & Louise learning about the lives of honey bees. Would highly recommend this experience. Very friendly and knowledgeable. Hands on experience
★★★★★
Matthew A
We went for the Beekeeper Experience Day and we had a great time! Gareth and Louise are fantastic; their passion and knowledge really shows! If you're interested in learning about honey bees and having a hands-on experience, you're in great hands here!
★★★★★
FAQs
What happens if it rains or the weather is bad?
Bees cannot safely be inspected in heavy rain, strong winds, or cold temperatures (below 14°C–15°C). We monitor local forecasts closely and will notify you via email and SMS 24–48 hours before your session if a date needs to be rescheduled. In the event of weather postponement, you will receive priority rebooking on alternative 2027 dates or a flexible credit voucher.
Can children attend?
Yes! Our Beekeeping Experience Days are suitable for curious nature lovers aged 12 and above. For safety reasons, all attendees under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a participating, ticket-holding parent or guardian, and will be fitted with our full protective suits and gloves.
What if I've never been near bees before (or I'm a bit nervous?
You are in very safe hands! Most of our participants have never stood near a hive before. We provide full professional, head-to-toe protective suits and gloves so you are completely shielded. Our colonies are naturally bred for a calm, gentle temperament, and you will be guided every step of the way by our head beekeepers. You set your own comfort level—there is never any pressure to hold a frame until you feel ready.

Beekeeping Experience Day - Morning (10:00 – 13:00)Sun 09 MayAnimal Sanctuary
Beekeeping Experience Day - Afternoon (14:00 – 17:00)Sun 09 MayAnimal Sanctuary
Beekeeping Experience Day - Morning (10:00 – 13:00)Sun 06 JunAnimal Sanctuary
Beekeeping Experience Day - Afternoon (14:00 – 17:00)Sun 06 JunAnimal Sanctuary
Beekeeping Experience Day - Morning (10:00 – 13:00)Sun 04 JulAnimal Sanctuary
Beekeeping Experience Day - Afternoon (14:00 – 17:00)Sun 04 JulAnimal Sanctuary
Beekeeping Experience Day - Morning (10:00 – 13:00)Sun 01 AugAnimal Sanctuary
Beekeeping Experience Day - Afternoon (14:00 – 17:00)Sun 01 AugAnimal Sanctuary

