There is a long-established history of beekeeping within the University of Edinburgh - beekeepers have worked both in George Square and King's Buildings for many years, in both an official and unofficial capacity.

As both beekeepers and members of staff, we felt in a position to set up an apiary at the University in a more organised way. We would provide the equipment, bees and expertise needed to manage the bees in return for a suitable site on which to establish the apiary. Research and teaching demands related to bees and beekeeping could then be satisfied as a result.

The Apiary Project was set up in 2008 to meet these demands. The project manages several hives at King's Buildings, and provides facilities for research and teaching about honey bees.

The project has been involved in many activities related to education and research, details of which can be seen on the Activities page.