Size up to 20mm with a hairy body resembling a bumblebee. The body is typically brown with a distinctive black tip to the abdomen (c.f. Bombylius major). The wings are long and narrow, often held outstretched at rest, with a faint dark front edge and distinctive dark spots, visible when at rest. 

Bombylius major

Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required. If the photo doesn't show the key ID features then in the comments box describe the size and identifying characters you have observed.

Commonly found in gardens, meadows, and other areas with abundant flowering plants.

Flight time: March to June, most frequent in April.

Bee-flies in the genus Bombylius lay their eggs into the nests of solitary mining bees. 

Less common than Bombylius major but now spreading north and was recorded for the first time Leicestershire (VC55) in 2019.

Dipterists Forum: Bee-flies in genus Bombylius: https://dipterists.org.uk/sites/default/files/pdf/Bombylius%20ID%20guide.pdf