Supporting Biodiversity Through Beekeeping

Since 2023, we’ve been proud sponsors of two beehives at an offsite apiary in Bath, partnering with Knights Beekeeping to help protect and grow the UK’s declining honey-bee population. This summer, we celebrated our third harvest – a milestone that reflects our ongoing commitment to biodiversity and environmental responsibility.

Why Bees Matter

The UK’s bee population has faced significant decline in recent decades, with habitat loss, pesticides, and climate change all playing a role. As pollinators, bees are essential to our ecosystem. They support the growth of trees, flowers, and other plants that provide food and shelter for countless species.

By sponsoring an apiary in the countryside, we’re contributing to efforts to boost bee populations away from urban pressures, giving these vital pollinators the space they need to thrive.

Our Partnership with Knights Beekeeping

Knights Beekeeping manages our two hives at their Bath apiary, where experienced beekeepers provide expert care throughout the year. The apiary’s rural location offers bees access to diverse wildflowers and plants, creating ideal conditions for healthy colonies.

Each harvest depends on the success of the season; weather conditions, forage availability, and colony health all play a part. In 2023, we received our first batch of STAY honey, a tangible result of this partnership. This year’s third harvest continues that tradition.

Sharing the Harvest with STAY Residents

We’re pleased to offer pots of our honey to long-stay residents on request, subject to availability. It’s a small gesture that connects our guests to the wider sustainability efforts we’re championing – and a reminder that even in the heart of Camden, we’re thinking about the countryside and the natural world beyond.

Our Commitment

Our beekeeping partnership sits alongside our other green initiatives at STAY Camden, from our brown roofs that promote biodiversity to our rooftop bug hotel. Together with our Gold Award from Green Tourism and our Greengage EcoSmart Plus accreditation, these efforts reflect our belief that sustainable hospitality means looking beyond our immediate operations.

Supporting the UK’s bee population is just one way we’re working to make a positive environmental contribution. As we continue into our third year with Knights Beekeeping, we’re proud to play a small part in protecting these essential pollinators for future generations.

To learn more about our sustainability initiatives at STAY Camden, visit our STAY Green page.