Historic Hampton farm in Maple Ridge going to the bees

First there was a pumpkin patch, then the cheesemakers moved in, a craft brewery opened up, and now a bee-keeping and honey business will be situated along a busy Maple Ridge road that is slowly gaining the reputation of an agri-tourism corridor.

The owners of Honeybee Centre, a successful bee business in Surrey, have purchased the historic Hampton property with the goal of opening a honey shop and community gathering spot for families across the Lower Mainland to enjoy and learn about the importance of bees.

Andrew Gluck, one of four owners of the family business, envisions the farm becoming an agri-tourism destination.

The Surrey location has been in operation since 2001.

"We pollinate a huge percentage of blueberries, cranberries, and raspberries, here on the Pacific West Coast," he explained of their bee-keeping operation.

People travel to the centre to simply purchase honey. But, they also go there to learn about bees, as the centre offers field trip programs – two to three per day during the honey producing season.

"We feel it's really important to inject the importance of pollination, and sustainability, and food security and food safety to the youth," he said.

And this is exactly the type of facility Gluck wants to open in Maple Ridge – and more, by expanding their educational programs, opening a store, and creating a community gathering spot with an eatery and lots of activities for children.

"Somewhere where people can come, and park their car for four or five hours and learn about bees, taste some honey, play in the fields, maybe a corn maze. Just things for people to do in the community," he said.

City of Maple Ridge Mayor Dan Ruimy said he is thrilled to welcome the centre to the community and noted that their investment in the city speaks to the growing appeal of Maple Ridge as a destination for unique, authentic, and locally rooted agri-tourism experiences.

"This addition will further enhance the vibrant agri-tourism corridor emerging along 128 Avenue, which is already home to beloved destinations like Golden Ears Cheesecrafters, Laity Pumpkin Patch, and The Patch Brewery," said the mayor.

Ruimy noted there are more than 81 agri-tourism businesses throughout Maple Ridge, and he is anticipating that this corridor will become a magnet for even more potential new ventures.

More than 30,000 visitors came to the city last year for signature events like Canada Day, BC Summer Games, and Our Neck of the Woods Festival.

Ruimy noted the proximity of Maple Ridge to Vancouver makes the city an attractive day-trip destination. He said the city is actively exploring opportunities to strengthen partnerships with businesses and support initiatives that enhance visitor experiences, such as interactive tourism maps and curated itineraries.

"Looking to the future, we see tremendous potential for this corridor and the agri-tourism sector as a whole. We are committed to working with local businesses, industry partners, and residents to foster sustainable growth, improve visitor infrastructure, and ensure Maple Ridge remains a leading destination for those seeking authentic and unforgettable local experiences," he added.

Gluck, who took possession of the property in February, 2024, is planning to bring the historic Hampton buildings back to life, keeping the yellow colour with a fresh coat of paint and new windows.

His family now owns 53 acres, on the north and south side of 128 Avenue. And just south of this parcel of land they own another 10 acres where they planted 1,004 hazelnut trees by hand.

They have also leased part of the land and one of the barns to the North Fraser Therapeutic Riding Association, an equine facility with programs for those with diverse abilities, who will be moving to their new home on July 1.

Gluck is excited about their future plans for the property.

"We're really motivated to bring this vision to life in Maple Ridge, and we're going to be doing everything that we can to get this up and running as quickly as possible, so that we can add to this amazing agri-tourism corridor," he said.

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