Founded in 1874 as a national umbrella organisation for beekeeping associations, our charitable object is to advance the education of the public and beekeepers in the craft of beekeeping and promote the importance of bees in the environment.  

Governed by a Board of Trustees, we are a UK Registered charity (no. 1185343) and we look after 26,000 + hobby beekeepers.

Education is at the heart of our activities.  We run a wide range of educational programmes, lectures, workshops and are committed to the importance of beekeeping for the benefit of all.  For those wishing to become qualified beekeepers, our Exam Board oversees practical and written examinations for all abilities.  This can culminate in the highest Master Beekeeper award.

We work with the government (DEFRA) to represent the needs of beekeepers and honey bees and to advise government on their Pollinators' Strategy.