Shetland is on the northern edge of the honey bee's breeding range, so beekeeping here is a test of patience. The weather is unreliable, hives need good insulation, and a new queen has only a short window to mate, in temperatures above about 16°C. Even so, the isles produce more honey than you might expect. Most of it comes from Angus Nicol of Frakkafield, at Dale just outside Lerwick, who has kept bees for more than 30 years with hives around the Shetland Mainland. He keeps the hardy native British black bee, and ling heather rather than bell heather is the most important plant for his bees.
A few other beekeepers in Shetland also produce honey, but supplies are small. The Shetland Times reports that Frakkafield honey is sold commercially through Scoop.
Use the listing details to choose how to buy, then contact the producer before travelling.
The directory does not track live stock or harvest dates. Availability, collection, delivery, prices and seasonal varieties can change, so ask the producer to confirm what is currently available.
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