Business / Success stories
Bumblebee at the Hive
Sector:
Retail and Hospitality – Lifestyle shop and bistro
Location:
Scott Street, Barrow-in-Furness
Bumblebee at the Hive began as a small homeware shop and has grown into one of Barrow’s most distinctive destinations.
Built on creativity, hard work and a love of interiors, it’s a business that reflects the personality and passion of its founder, Jackie Maguire.
Jackie spent 38 years in nursing, but her interest in antiques, interiors and visiting auctions never faded. “Nursing can be stressful,” she said. “The shop was my escape.”
That escape initially became reality when she and her husband bought their first premises in 2002– a tiny shop on Scott Street.
Trading as a gifts and homeware boutique, the shop gave Jackie a creative outlet while two trusted colleagues ran the day-to-day.
In her spare time and as an escape from the pressures of the NHS, she handled the buying, building a reputation for quality and individuality.
But there was always the dream of something bigger.
“We’re seeing more visitors and tourists than ever, and that’s brilliant for the town. It gives people confidence to open new shops and cafes – and that’s exactly what Barrow needs.”
The turning point came when Jackie spotted a derelict pink building across the road. “I used to walk past and imagine what it could be,” she said. A chance conversation with the jeweller next door revealed it was for sale.
In 2013, the couple bought it, rebuilt the back and uncovered original features that gave the space its character.
With the help of a very talented builder the renovation work began.
“Mike, the builder, always said draw me a picture of what’s in your head and we can do it. The building was transformed into what it is today with all its lovely original features.
“It was a huge job, but we loved every minute,” she said.
The shop remains the heart of the Hive. It brings together painted and vintage furniture, locally made art and gift items, plus ethically sourced products from artisan communities in India – where makers are paid fairly and supported to sustain traditional skills.
Upstairs, the bistro, which opened in 2022, adds a new dimension. “I wanted to offer something special to the town,” Jackie said.
“We are regularly told by our customers the hive is a special place with its own unique feel. We always wanted it be like eating outdoors in nature and when the balcony doors are open this adds to the experience. The birdcage is always a talking point and our most popular booked table!
The atmosphere shifts through the day: calm and sociable at lunchtime, lively but relaxed in the evening.
Jackie shared: “The menu is built around small plates, and we are all about sharing. We want our guests to try new flavours, dishes and our small plates menu lends itself perfectly to this.
“Our Head Chef, Adam Corcoran, has full creative freedom with the menu and has been here practically from the beginning.
“We always source locally whenever possible, fish from local boats, meat from nearby farms and of course local honey!”
Jackie is passionate about Barrow’s future. “I love my town. We’ve got beaches, the Lakes, amazing people. There’s so much potential here.
“We’re seeing more visitors and tourists than ever, and that’s brilliant for the town. It gives people confidence to open new shops and cafés – and that’s exactly what Barrow needs.”
Her advice to anyone thinking of starting up? “Just do it,” she said. “If you’re passionate and prepared to work hard, now’s the time. There’s never been a better opportunity.”
“If you’re passionate and prepared to work hard, now’s the time. There’s never been a better opportunity.”
