Monthly Educational Lectures
Throughout the year, ABKA hosts a programme of monthly evening lectures, bringing together experienced beekeepers, researchers and guest speakers to share their knowledge with members.
These talks cover a wide range of topics, from seasonal hive management and honey production to bee health, pests, diseases and the latest developments in beekeeping. Whether you're just starting your beekeeping journey or have many years of experience, our lectures provide an excellent opportunity to learn, ask questions and exchange ideas with fellow members.
Recent lectures have included:
- Frankie de Dobbelaere – The Asian Hornet: Identification, Monitoring and Preparedness
- Keith Pierce – Spring Colony Management to Maximise Honey Production
- Colm Penston (ABKA) – Recognising Common Honey Bee Diseases in the Hive
- Terry Meakin (ABKA) – Disease Identification and Practical Hive Inspections
Our lecture programme continues throughout the active beekeeping season and over the winter months, with topics selected to support members at every stage of the beekeeping year.
All members are welcome, and visitors may be able to attend selected lectures where places are available.
Events & Apiary Visits
Learn, meet, share and take part
Ashford & District Beekeepers Association runs talks, meetings, apiary visits, beginner sessions and seasonal events throughout the year.
Our events are a chance for members to learn together, ask questions, share experience and stay connected with the changing rhythm of the beekeeping season. Some events are suitable for complete beginners, while others are aimed at developing beekeepers or members with more practical experience.
ABKA is committed to helping members develop their knowledge and skills through cooperation, sharing and a friendly, non-competitive approach. The Association’s ethos values respect, kindness, friendship and generosity of spirit, and our events are an important part of bringing that ethos to life.
What to Expect
ABKA events may include:
- beginner beekeeping sessions
- apiary visits and practical demonstrations
- seasonal beekeeping talks
- native Irish honey bee conservation discussions
- swarm awareness and management guidance
- honey bee health and hive management topics
- public education events
- social and community gatherings
Whether you are just starting out or have been keeping bees for many years, our events offer an opportunity to learn from others and contribute to the wider ABKA community.
Apiary Visits
Apiary visits are one of the most valuable ways to learn beekeeping. They allow members to observe colonies, discuss seasonal conditions, ask questions and build confidence through practical experience.
Because apiary visits depend on weather, bee conditions and safety considerations, arrangements may occasionally change at short notice.
Some apiary visits are for members only. Where this applies, location details and any specific instructions will be shared directly with members by email or through the agreed ABKA communication channels.
Public and Members-Only Events
Some ABKA events are open to the wider public, especially where the focus is education, pollinator awareness or community engagement.
Other events, particularly practical apiary sessions, may be limited to members for safety, insurance or capacity reasons.
Please check each calendar entry carefully before attending.