Swarm or nuc? Swarms are free but unpredictable; nucs are calm, reliable and fast to establish — the best option for a stress-free first season.

Packages are cheaper but slow to establish. Nucs include brood, comb and a laying queen—giving beginners a strong, low-risk start in the UK.

The essential starter kit for UK beekeepers: hive, nuc, protective suit, smoker, hive tool and feeder — plus our video on what you’ll actually use all year.

You can start beekeeping without a course. Self-learning, mentorship, and Jurassic Bees support make it easy for beginners in the UK.

Start with one nuc in spring. Make a split to prevent swarming and create a backup colony — giving beginners two hives to learn from and insurance for winter.

Most gardens in the UK can host at least one hive. Here’s how much space bees really need, plus key tips for starting out.

Buckfast and Carniolan bees are ideal for UK beginners. Ligustica and native black bees are less suited. Learn their pros and cons — and how you can change bee type anytime by requeening.

Overwintered nucs are usually ready from April. They start fast in spring and can reach full strength quickly.