The Association is a thriving community of over 700 beekeepers, with branches in Ipswich, Leiston, Stowmarket, Waveney, West Suffolk and the Norwich & District Bee Keeping Club. Its purpose is to promote good beekeeping. This involves crop pollination and the collection, sale, showing and use of honey and wax. We provide instructions and demonstrations in these subjects, leading to an understanding of these fascinating insects and how to keep them healthy. There are facilities for courses in beekeeping and nationally recognized examinations can be taken. There are also branch libraries with beekeeping books. Come and meet us at the Suffolk Show and other local agricultural shows.
Regular indoor meetings are held at Kesgrave, Barsham and Bury St Edmunds with practical apiary meetings, social gatherings and events at other locations in the county during the year. Attendance at these events is open to non-members and more information about these meetings can be found on the events page.
The annual subscription is about £26.00 but may vary from branch to branch. This includes affiliation to The British Beekeepers’ Association (BBKA) which provides representation, help and expert advice at a national level and a public liability insurance cover for up to £10 million. There is also cover in case of the more serious bee brood diseases.
Beginners and those who are just curious are particularly welcome. There are one-day events for those who are interested to find out more about bees and beekeeping. The best way to find out what beekeeping entails is to have a closer look.