The Definitive Guide to Beekeeping in Britain and Ireland
This is the only beginner’s guide written specifically for Britain and Ireland, designed around our native bees, seasonal cycles, and local weather. From your very first hive to managing thriving, productive colonies year-round, it delivers practical, hands-on guidance you can rely on.
Inside, you’ll gain the knowledge and skills to:
Select the right hive and equipment for the native dark bee and our climateSource healthy bees from trusted suppliers while avoiding common pitfallsFollow a first-year inspection schedule timed perfectly to the local seasonsManage Varroa, feeding, and disease with methods proven to work in these conditionsHarvest, jar, and label honey safely and in full compliance with UK and Irish regulationsRecognise early warning signs, troubleshoot problems confidently, and build real experience
A bonus chapter provides a month-by-month schedule of tasks and inspections, giving you a clear framework to manage your hive over the course of a year.
Written by Ciaran Daly, a seasoned beekeeper with 27 years’ experience mentoring beginners across Ireland, this book combines practical expertise with tested, real-world methods. Every chapter is clear, actionable, and designed to give you results you can see in your hive.
Whether you’re starting from scratch or refining your first season, this guide gives you the tools, knowledge, and confidence to keep your bees healthy, productive, and thriving throughout the year.
