At the YBKA Winter Webinar Series, we were delighted to welcome Laurence Edwards of Black Mountain Honey, who shared an honest and engaging account of his beekeeping journey. Laurence’s talk, “Beyond the Binary – My Beekeeping Story”, explored the choices, challenges, and changes that shape every beekeeper’s experience.
Laurence began by describing how his beekeeping started with a desire to “do the right thing” – following advice to keep local bees, avoid chemical treatments, and work in harmony with nature. However, as his beekeeping developed, he found that these ideals didn’t always align with the practical realities of his growing number of colonies. After several difficult seasons, he decided to try Buckfast bees, finding them calmer, more productive, and better suited to his particular management style and location.
From there, Black Mountain Honey grew into a thriving operation producing honey, bees, and educational content for beekeepers across the country. Laurence shared his enthusiasm for continuous learning, honesty about what works and what doesn’t, and the importance of being adaptable as conditions – and aims – change.
A Place for Every Kind of Beekeeper
One of the central messages of Laurence’s talk was that there is no single right way to keep bees. What matters most is understanding your own goals – whether you want to produce honey, raise queens, support pollinators, or simply enjoy observing bees in your garden – and choosing an approach that fits.
He encouraged beekeepers not to become divided by bee type or philosophy, but instead to learn from one another. Whether keeping local dark bees, Buckfasts, or Carniolans, Laurence reminded us that every colony offers something to teach us. By sharing experiences openly and respectfully, the whole beekeeping community benefits.
Looking to the Future
Laurence also touched on wider issues facing UK beekeeping, such as biosecurity, honey bee imports, and breeding programmes. He suggested that a cooperative approach – including designated mating areas and more collaboration between local groups – could help everyone work towards healthy, sustainable bee populations.
His talk ended on a positive note: that beekeeping should bring enjoyment, curiosity, and connection to nature. As Laurence put it, “Beekeeping isn’t about native or Buckfast bees – it’s about finding harmony between your bees, your goals, and your environment.”
The session concluded with an enthusiastic Q&A and plenty of food for thought. Whatever bees you keep, Laurence’s message of openness, experimentation, and mutual respect resonated with all.
YBKA members will have exclusive access to the recording via a private link for a limited period.