Since its founding in 1922 by Fred Payne, this family-operated bee farm in Hassocks, Sussex, has evolved into one of the UK's premier beekeeping hubs. The farm manages approximately 1500 hives scattered across the South Downs, offering an extensive range of bee-related products and services. These include locally produced English honey, beeswax products, and beekeeping equipment, catering to both novice and seasoned beekeepers.

A standout feature of the business is its specialization in poly hives—innovative beekeeping equipment designed and manufactured in the UK. Introduced to the mainstream market in 2009, these hives are renowned for their benefits to honeybees, enhancing beekeeping practices significantly. The poly hive range has expanded over the years, following their initial success with a 6-frame poly nuc hive, which was developed to meet growing demands for nuc and swarm management solutions.

The operation also stands out as one of the largest suppliers of nucs and queens in the country, providing hundreds of nucs and thousands of queens to beekeepers annually. Their comprehensive product lineup is supported by a 5000 square foot warehouse that stocks everything from beesuits to the latest bee health treatments.

Visitors to the bee farm can enjoy a hatch service and shop for beekeeping supplies, along with tasting a variety of honeys, jams, and marmalades. The expertise of the staff, many of whom are avid beekeepers, ensures valuable advice and support for all customers, reaffirming the farm’s commitment to quality and beekeeper education.