08/07/2026
We are truly 'buzzing' after the fantastic Bees exhibition at the Willis Museum! 🐝🍯
As this fantastic exhibition celebrating Hampshire’s rich beekeeping history comes to a close, one of its most important legacies is the range of community partnerships it fostered, and we are so grateful for all of the support.
Throughout the exhibition, we were fortunate to work with a wide range of partners. Manydown's involvement went beyond their financial support, bringing ideas, school engagement and a real commitment to the success of the exhibition. Rebecca Smith, Manydown, reflected: “It has been wonderful to see such a positive response to the exhibition from visitors of all ages. From inspiring school groups to engaging nature and bee enthusiasts, it has highlighted the important role bees play in both our heritage and our future. We are proud to have supported an exhibition that has encouraged learning, curiosity and a greater appreciation of the natural world.”
We are very thankful for the expertise of Ken Robson and his team at The Charles Butler Foundation and local beekeeping organisations who shared their expert knowledge and enthusiasm, enriching the experience for visitors. Funding from the Nineveh Charitable Trust helped make the project possible.
Local school pupils from Great Binfields Primary School and Inclusion School created their own exhibitions in the Community Gallery, sharing creative work inspired by their learning about bees and the natural world.
A teacher reflected that “This project has opened doors for all children, including some of our most vulnerable pupils. They’ve handled real artefacts, explored new techniques and seen their own artwork displayed in a public space. For many of them, this may be the first time experiencing this important local space and resource and we hope it will not be the last.”
This exhibition was a wonderful example of how our venues at Hampshire Cultural Trust can bring the community together around shared expertise, learning and ideas.
Thank you to everyone who played a part, we are extremely grateful for your support!
Manydown Life
Charles Butler 400 Foundation
