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Numerous versions of the horizontal, deep frame hive exist, based on the principles of the famous French 19th century beekeeper Georges de Layens.

This horizontal hive is ideally suited to a more hands-off approach to beekeeping. The bees can be sustainably managed with minimal intervention to the brood nest and simultaneously provide a modest honey crop for personal use, depending on the conditions.

This latest version of the Layens Hive is constructed primarily from a mix of British and Western Red cedar. It has high insulation properties, aided by an internal lining of 15mm Wool Wood, solid frame runners and a Wool Wood crown board, helping the bees to maintain a stable, all year-round, brood nest temperature.

The hive includes 13 deep frames with a  wax covered starter strip. The bees are left to build their own comb as they see fit. 

The hive has an internal volume of 70L.  A ‘follower’ board is incorporated with the frames to adjust the volume of the cavity as the colony develops.

There is a hinged lid and separate base that the hive sits on a removable floor providing the option to monitor hive debris.