Local Honey Blunham

no.143 Beekeeping is a small-scale, family-run apiary based in the heart of Bedfordshire at 143 Grange Road, Blunham. The apiary has a rich history of beekeeping dating back to 1976, with a multi-generational family of beekeepers caring for the hives. Led by Rob Schwar, with founder Ernest Parry now retired and Liz Schwar managing the business side, no.143 is passionate about keeping happy, healthy bees above all else.

Their honey is single-source, locally produced Bedfordshire mixed blossom honey — they never import, blend, or include any additives. The bees forage on surrounding fields, gardens, an apple tree orchard, and a stand of linden trees that prove especially popular.

no.143 also produces sustainable beeswax food wraps from the wax by-product of their hives, offering an eco-friendly alternative to plastic wrap. During summer months they provide a free swarm removal service to the local community. They sell honey in 1lb and 12oz jars at local events such as Flitton Open Gardens, alongside their reusable waxed food wraps.

The apiary features several characterful hives including the Crabapple Hive, one of their longest-standing colonies, and the Middle Bed Hive situated in the centre of the garden.