BEE hives are set to be installed on a central Edinburgh hotel after a deal was agreed with a honey producer.
Four hives are to be installed on top of the Edinburgh aparthotel, Eden Locke on George Street by Webster Honey.
The hotel will be able to use the honey harvested in dishes that they serve to guest in what they say is a “thrilling” partnership.
Daniel Webster, Managing Director of Webster Honey, said: “Hives can be sited anywhere, you don’t have to be out in the country to have bees, as we already have a hive on a roof at a nursery in Edinburgh.
“Roofs are a great and very safe place in which to put a hive and these ones will enjoy a spectacular view of Edinburgh, not that the bees will notice, they will be far too busy, but it will certainly be nice for Meik Molitor, our beekeeper!”
“The first lockdown prevented us from being able to do much engagement with any of our customers who were hosting hives for us.
“We would love it if this year we were able to get back to doing that, as it adds so much to the overall hosting experience.”
“Regardless of what restrictions are in place, Meik will still come and carry out all checks on the hives and make sure the bees are flourishing.”
The honey producer is also offering educational establishments the opportunity to carry out lesson plans on the life cycle of bees with their pupils.
This will be in consultation Webster Honey’s beekeeper Mr Molitor who will carry out age-appropriate sessions.
Jamie Mackie, General Manager at Eden Locke, said: “We are thrilled to partner with Webster Honey and provide a safe new home for bees at Eden Locke, where they can thrive.
“We’ve no doubt that our guests will enjoy sampling some homemade honey, while learning about the important role bees play in our environment – and if they’re lucky, even catch Meik for a chat!”