New bee trail opens in Glasgow city centre

A new walking trail featuring small bee models has opened in central Glasgow. The route passes Glasgow Cathedral and the Royal Infirmary and places 23 bee sculptures among plants, trees, gates and plaques. The trail covers about 2.5 km and is estimated to take roughly 4,000 steps to complete. Locations along the path include the Necropolis, Barony Hall and Provand's Lordship.

Background of the project The idea originated with volunteers from the Friends of Glasgow Royal Infirmary group, who maintain beehives on the hospital roof. Honey from the hives is sold each winter. Two volunteers from the group developed the trail concept to highlight both the hospital's history and local green spaces.

The sculptures were created to draw attention to wildflowers and other plants in the cathedral precinct area.

Details of the trail Each of the 23 bees carries a name beginning with the letter B. Two additional bee models are located slightly outside the main route. Organisers say the trail offers both physical activity and basic information about bees. Studies cited in the coverage note that some bee species in Britain face decline.