A beer house dating from the beginning of the 19th century stood on the present site. The name Bee Hive was given to the place because of hives in the surrounding area. The building appears to have doubled as a cobblers shop.
In 1817 a new Glossop/Sheffield turnpike was built which greatly increased trade, and the Bee Hive was soon acquired by Duncan Gilmour, who totally rebuilt the premises. Until recent years a huge "Gilmour's Windsor Ales" legend appeared across the cornice.
Tetley took over in 1954, but the major changes did not come until 40 years later.
The Bee Hive was always a popular students pub, and Allied Breweries invested heavily in a rebuild and extension into the post office next door. It became one of the Firkin chain, renamed the Foundry & Firkin and incorporating its own brewery, and for a time supplied beer to other Firkin outlets. This operation has now ceased.