Bees! Hampshire's Hive of History & Nature

Bees! Hampshire's Hive of History & Nature

Bees! Hampshire’s Hive of History & Nature is an exhibition that brings the world of bees to life through history, science and art. It explores how bees live, work and communicate, revealing the remarkable ways they shape the natural world and why their survival is tied so closely to our own. Visitors can discover the power of pollination and learn how these small creatures support entire ecosystems.

A central part of the exhibition focuses on Charles Butler of Wootton St Lawrence, a seventeenth‑century vicar, musician and pioneering observer of bees. His influential 1623 book The Feminine Monarchie transformed beekeeping in England by popularising the idea of the queen bee and documenting hive behaviour with extraordinary insight. Two original copies of the book are on display.

The exhibition includes an immersive hive installation along with new murals by artist Dan “Decreate” Wilson, illustrations by Emily Harper and photography by Hampshire wildlife photographer Lauren McIntyre. Families can also take part in bee‑themed games and activities throughout the gallery. Entry is free and the exhibition runs at the Willis Museum and Sainsbury Gallery until 28 June 2026.

Standard venue opening times:

Sun 24th May: 10:00 - 16:00
Mon 25th May: 10:00 - 16:00
Tue 26th May: 10:00 - 16:00
Wed 27th May: 10:00 - 17:00
Thu 28th May: 10:00 - 17:00
Fri 29th May: 10:00 - 17:00
Sat 30th May: 10:00 - 17:00

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Willis Museum
Market Place
Basingstoke
Hampshire
RG21 7QD

07710 093821