A growing UK luxury hotel group headquartered in Kent, Handpicked Hotels, has announced the acquisition of four country hotels in the Cotswolds, this September 2026.
The group, which encompasses 21 'distinctive' luxury country hotels and coastal retreats, from Edinburgh to the Channel Islands, is taking on the ownership of Buckland Manor, The Slaughters Country Inn, The Slaughters Manor House and Old Swan & Minster Mill, from Andrew Brownsword Hotels.
The family business says the transaction marks a 'significant milestone' in its growth and development through establishing a presence in the Cotswolds, 'one of the UK's most internationally recognised and sought-after leisure destinations'.
The Brownsword family thanked the teams at the hotels for their contribution to the wider business under its ownership, as it continues to welcome guests across its national portfolio.
The hotels will continue trading under their existing names following completion of the deal, while both businesses will work to ensure a smooth transition for colleagues, guests, suppliers and local stakeholders.
While the financial terms of the acquisition are undisclosed, it builds on Handpicked Hotels' continued investment in its portfolio, along with steps to strengthen its leadership and enhance the guest experience through a series of new luxury partnerships, including with Bollinger, Chapel Down, and Blenheim Palace.
Julia Hands, chair of Handpicked Hotels, said: 'The Cotswolds has long been one of Britain's most admired destinations and establishing a presence in the region has been an ambition of ours for some time.
'Our collection has been thoughtfully built over many years and these hotels are a natural fit, combining the heritage, individuality and quality that our guests value and expect. Their addition complements our existing portfolio while introducing Handpicked Hotels to new audiences across the UK and internationally.
'We are proud to become the next custodian of these properties and are committed to preserving what makes them special while investing in their future success.'
John Badley, chief executive officer of Andrew Brownsword Hotels, added: 'These hotels have been developed and cared for with great pride over many years, and we are pleased to have reached an agreement that marks the beginning of their next chapter.'
