Charities
Open to ideas, rooted in community
At Ivy Cottage Bees, we’re always looking for meaningful ways to support our local community and the charities that help it thrive. As our business grows, we want our work to make a positive difference too — whether that’s through events, workshops or partnerships that reflect our values. We’re open to new ideas and always happy to explore opportunities where our beekeeping can contribute to something bigger.
Bee‑Led Wellbeing Sessions for Mental Health Charities
At Ivy Cottage Bees, we offer nature‑based wellbeing programmes for charities and community organisations looking to support people with anxiety, loneliness, bereavement or social isolation. Our calm, structured sessions in Syderstone combine gentle apiary visits, mindfulness‑style observation of bees, simple beeswax craft and seasonal nature walks around the North Norfolk countryside. These outdoor wellbeing activities provide a grounding, sensory experience that helps people slow down, reconnect with nature and feel part of something steady and safe. If your charity is looking for mental‑health friendly, nature‑led wellbeing sessions or community reconnection activities, we’d love to talk about how we can work together. Please get in touch to explore partnership options.
Sponsored Apiary Visits for Charities and Community Groups
At Ivy Cottage Bees, we offer sponsored access to our Syderstone apiary for charities and community organisations looking to provide meaningful, nature‑based experiences for the people they support. Each year we set aside a number of free or reduced‑cost apiary visits for groups such as families receiving support, young carers, people with additional needs, and community volunteers. These calm, outdoor sessions give visitors the chance to learn about bees, enjoy a safe sensory experience and spend time in the North Norfolk countryside. If your charity is looking for accessible outdoor activities, wellbeing experiences, or community engagement opportunities, we’d be happy to discuss how we can work together. Please get in touch to explore sponsored visit options.
Supporting Wells Carnival 2026
We’re delighted to be supporting Wells Carnival this summer with a series of events for families, visitors and anyone curious about the world of bees. As part of our commitment to local community projects, all proceeds from our Carnival activities will go directly to supporting the Carnival’s work in Wells‑next‑the‑Sea.
Mini Makes Children’s Workshop
Saturday 1st August – Gordon Barrett Memorial Hall A fun, hands‑on workshop where children can enjoy simple beeswax mini makes and learn a little about how bees help shape our landscape. A relaxed, creative session suitable for all ages.
A Year in the Life of a Beekeeper – Talk for Adults
Monday 3rd August – Gordon Barrett Memorial Hall Join us for an engaging look inside the hive as we explore what really happens across the beekeeping year and what goes on inside the hive of a honeybee. A friendly, accessible talk for anyone interested in bees, nature or North Norfolk’s seasonal rhythms.
Find Us on The Buttlands
We’ll also be part of the wider Carnival celebrations on The Buttlands:
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Carnival Fete Day – Sunday 2nd August
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Food & Craft Fair – Tuesday 4th August Come and say hello, try some honey and chat bees with us
Carnival Day – Saturday 8th August
Our Wells‑next‑the‑Sea shop will be joining in the fun with entries in both the Best Dressed Window and Best Dressed Staff competitions. You’ll also spot us on our very own Carnival float in the annual parade — keep an eye out for something suitably bee‑themed.
Important Information
This is a working apiary, and there will be bees in the apiary and on their flight-paths to and from the nectar and pollen. Participants must wear long-sleeved clothing and bring wellies or sturdy ankle boots. Ankles must be protected so socks should be able to tuck over trousers. We will provide you with a suitable, protective beekeeping suit and gloves but we cannot guarantee you will not get stung. We will of course do our best to ensure you don’t get stung! If you have allergies to bee stings, unfortunately, these experiences are not suitable for you.
Our apiary is sited in Syderstone, Norfolk and the postcode and directions will be provided following a booking.
All experiences are weather dependent. The organisers refuse the right to change the date of experiences if the weather conditions are inclement to inspecting and opening beehives. Should an experience be cancelled, the date will be rescheduled, and a new date offered.