About

A Dream 40 Years in the Making

If you’ve ever sat by the sea in Garlieston and thought, “I wish there was somewhere cosy for a cuppa and a slice of something delicious,” you’re not alone.
That exact thought has been buzzing around our family for over four decades.

After 40 years of visiting this beautiful corner of the coast and after countless conversations that always ended with “one day…”  The Hive finally came to life.

A bright, happy place we created for our family, our children, our grandchildren, and for anyone who loves good food, good company and a warm welcome by the water.


Meet Your Hosts: Kerry, Andy & Amye

The Hive is lovingly run by Kerry (Mum), Andy (Dad) and Amye (Daughter), who relocated from the West Midlands to make this dream a reality.

For Kerry & Andy, The Hive is the fulfilment of a lifelong ambition to create a warm, family-focused space where community and comfort come first.

For Amye, it’s a brand-new career and a fresh start in a beautiful Scottish coastal village, building something meaningful alongside her mum.

Together, they bring the sunshine, the smiles, and the “come on in” warmth The Hive has already become known for.


Why We’re Called The Hive

The spark behind the name came from a simple, joyful moment: helping friends relocate to a rural part of France. Surrounded by nature, sunshine and the gentle hum of bees, the idea just clicked.

The Hive would be:

  • a place buzzing with good energy
  • a home for happy vibes
  • somewhere full of soulful goodness
  • and always, always welcoming

And that’s exactly what we’ve built.


A Family-Run, Heart-Led Coffee Shop

The Hive is a true family venture, you’ll feel that in every detail.

We open the doors each morning with pride, joy, and the feeling that this little coastal bolt-hole is more than just a business. It’s a legacy. A home. A place to gather, relax, and feel looked after.

We treat every customer the way we treat friends and family:
with kindness, warmth, a smile and a genuinely good cup of coffee.


A Place for People, Stories & Everyday Magic

One of our favourite things about The Hive is the people who fill it.

Some mornings start with our very own “Last of the Summer Wine” trio — three gents who pop in almost daily for their caffeine, man chat and a gentle ease into the day.

Other times, we’ve got a group of lovely ladies discussing the Late Queen over scones.
Or couples popping by after a coastal walk.
Or families treating the kids to ice cream from Girvan Gelateria.

It’s these everyday moments that make The Hive what it is:
a sanctuary for relaxing, chatting, and enjoying good food with good company.


Food Made With Love (and Plenty of Local Goodness)

Our menu is simple, comforting, and filled with treats that have quickly become customer favourites and in some cases, local legends:

  • freshly baked scones
  • creamy cheesecakes
  • hearty soups (our top seller!)
  • rich Ovenbird coffee
  • cakes, sweet treats, and lots of tempting surprises
  • local jams and preserves from Galloway Lodge
  • ice cream from the amazing Girvan Gelateria

We focus on quality, consistency, and creativity.
Everything is made to taste good, feel comforting, and brighten your day.

Cake counter at The Hive cafe

More Than Just a Coffee Shop

The Hive is a place to catch your breath.
A cheerful bolt-hole at the edge of the land.
An Aladdin’s cave of cakes and sweet treats.
A bright, buzzing home for community.

We’re always listening, always adapting, always dreaming up new ideas because we want every visit to feel just a little bit special.

Whether you’re here for a quick coffee, a long chat with friends, a quiet moment by the sea, or a slice of cheesecake that’ll change your afternoon…
you’re always welcome at The Hive.

Dumfries and Galloway Life Award Winner Badge 2025