Bees are extraordinary creatures. From buzzing gardens to golden honey, they connect us to the natural world in remarkable ways. This exhibition explores their world, how they live, work and communicate, sometimes even through dance! Discover the power of pollination and why our future depends on theirs.
At the heart of the story is local man Charles Butler of Wootton St Lawrence, a seventeenth-century vicar, musician and pioneering observer of bees. His groundbreaking 1623 book ‘The Feminine Monarchie’ transformed beekeeping in England, popularising the idea of the queen bee and capturing the sounds, habits and hierarchy of the hive with extraordinary insight.
Step inside a giant hive, learn about traditional and modern beekeeping, see a newly commissioned mural by fine artist Dan Wilson, and take part in hands-on activities and bee-themed games.
Suitable for
Event type
Which insects?
Organised by
Hampshire Cultural Trust
Location
Willis Museum
Market Place
Basingstoke
RG21 7QD
United Kingdom
Accessibility
The museum has ramped access to the front door and automatic and power-assisted doors to the Sainsbury Gallery and Café Willis on the ground floor.
Please note that the museum does not have an accessible toilet on site. All visitor toilets are located on the first floor and are only accessible via stairs.
The nearest accessible public toilet is located at:
Castons Yard Public Toilets, New Road, RG21 7ED
Disabled access only
Open 8am–6pm, Monday to Sunday
Approximately a 2-minute walk from the Willis Museum.
Assistance dogs are welcome, as long as they are clearly identifiable.
If you have any questions about access or would like to discuss your visit in advance, please contact us on 01256 465902.
Website
https://www.hampshireculture.org.uk/event/bees