Our Journey to 
Wood Bee Happy Ltd

After spending 20 years in the electronics industry, we transitioned to running our own businesses, purchasing two hotels, and later building a brewery and distillery in the stunning Lake District. After another 20 years in hospitality, we felt it was time to slow down and find a hobby. Managing the hotels was demanding and left us feeling drained, no longer having the energy we once did. 

A saying from my father kept echoing in my mind: "Take time to smell the roses." It reminded me of how precious time is and the importance of enjoying it rather than letting it slip away. Woodworking had been a passion of mine since school, but commitments in the hospitality industry left little time for it. Fortunately, we found a buyer for our hotel businesses, freeing up a significant amount of time for us to pursue our interests.

We quickly found a cozy spot with space for a small workshop for me and a perfect area for my wife to pursue her love of drawing, painting, and crafting. Over the years, I had collected local oak boards from an old wood mill that used to run nearby, and people often gave me tree trunks they had cut down. My goal has always been to reconnect with my "roots" in woodworking, a passion that goes back to my school days.

We're starting a new journey, doing what we love and aiming to share that joy with you through the products we create. By using quality hardwoods whenever possible and pouring our passion into every piece, we hope to make something truly special.

Mark & Lesley