Guildford Beekeepers

The Guildford Division of Surrey Beekeepers Association. Guildford Division was 100 years old in 2020. We are a registered charity, no. 1026386.

There are 8 Divisions that make up Surrey Beekeepers Association, of which Guildford is the largest. The main objective of Surrey Beekeepers Association Guildford Division is to promote and further the craft of beekeeping in Surrey. Surrey Beekeepers Association has been doing this since 1879. Guildford Division itself was founded in 1920 – 100 years of expertise at our fingertips.

Many of our Members have had years of practical beekeeping and this experience is a valuable resource. We are the most experienced beekeeping group in the Guildford area. The Committee that runs the Division has more than 150 years of beekeeping between them. Others are newcomers to the craft and bring with them much enthusiasm to their new-found hobby.

All beekeepers aim to keep their bees in good condition, to pollinate plants and bring in their valuable yield of honey each year. With this in mind the Guildford Division sees, as one of its primary functions, keeping its Members updated with the latest information. This it does with a monthly Newsletter, meetings at its Apiary, Garden Meetings at Members’ own apiaries and talks held at venues around the Guildford Division area.

Guildford Division of Surrey Beekeepers Association also holds both Theory Courses (during the winter months, usually starting in January) and Practical Courses from spring into summer. These are both for the beginner and the more advanced beekeeper. The Theory Course is held at Shalford Village Hall and the Practical Course at the Guildford Divisional Teaching Apiary in Bramley. We believe they are the best courses in the area due to our trainers’ vast experience. Guildford Division is also very keen to encourage new members to take the British Beekeeping Association examinations so that they have the confidence to advance their beekeeping. All new beekeepers who have taken our courses have the support of other members of the Guildford Division whom they can call at any time for help and advice or maybe just a chat over the phone about a problem. The Committee are always available by phone or e-mail.