Hand Picked Hotels has agreed to acquire four country house hotels from Andrew Brownsword Hotels for an undisclosed sum, marking its entry into the Cotswolds.

The acquisition includes the freeholds of Buckland Manor, The Slaughters Country Inn, The Slaughters Manor House and The Old Swan and Minster Mill, adding 118 bedrooms to the group’s portfolio.

The four hotels will continue to trade under their existing names following completion. Hand Picked Hotels said its immediate priority will be ensuring a smooth transition for staff, guests, suppliers and local stakeholders.

The acquisition follows a period of investment across Hand Picked Hotels’ existing portfolio, alongside new partnerships with brands and attractions including Bollinger, Chapel Down, Blenheim Palace and the National Motor Museum at the Beaulieu estate.

The acquisition is subject to completion, after which Hand Picked Hotels will assume ownership of the four properties.

Julia Hands, chair of Hand Picked 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 Hand Picked 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 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.

“We look forward to working together to ensure a smooth transition for our colleagues, guests and business partners, while the same care, long-term investment and commitment to exceptional hospitality that helped shape these four hotels will continue to guide everything we do, making our hotels very special as we continue to welcome our guests across our portfolio.”

Badley said: “I would like to thank our teams across these four hotels for their unwavering commitment, professionalism and passion for hospitality. Every memorable guest experience and the outstanding reputation these properties enjoy today is a reflection of their dedication and care. We are immensely proud of everything they have achieved, thank them sincerely for their contribution to Andrew Brownsword Hotels and wish them every success as they embark on this next chapter with Hand Picked Hotels.”