The evolution of beekeeping can be traced in the changing shape of the beehive and in the various structures used to house and protect it. These range from simple recesses holding one or two straw hives in house or garden walls to large free-standing buildings which could hold up to 32 hives. The wide variety of forms reflects the wealth, occupation and idiosyncrasies of owners, the increasing knowledge of the life cycle and requirements of the honey bee and the economic climate of the day.

With developments in beekeeping techniques in the nineteenth century these structures fell into disuse. Today they are often unrecognized and many are derelict or have disappeared altogether. It is hoped that this book will introduce to a wider public the various and fascinating ways in which bees were housed and will encourage the recording and preservation of those examples still to be found.