Hand Picked Hotels buys The Slaughters Manor House and more

The Slaughters Manor House <i>(Image: Supplied)</i>
The Slaughters Manor House (Image: Supplied)
This article is brought to you by our exclusive subscriber partnership with our sister title USA Today, and has been written by our American colleagues. It does not necessarily reflect the view of The Herald.

A 17th century Cotswold manor house is amongst four luxury hotels to go through a major shake-up. 

The Slaughters Manor House and The Slaughters Country Inn are just two of the luxury hotels to be bought by Hand Picked Hotels from Andrew Brownsword Hotels. 

This family-to-family transaction marks Hand Picked Hotels’ entry into the Cotswolds, a highly sought-after leisure destination known for its scenic countryside and historic charm.

Other hotels include the Old Swan & Minster Mill near Witney, and Buckland Manor in Broadway.

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."

The four properties, which together offer 118 bedrooms, are well-regarded for their distinct character, established dining options, and experienced teams.

Hand Picked Hotels plans to retain the existing names of the hotels and will focus on ensuring a smooth transition for staff, guests, suppliers, and the wider community.

The deal is part of the group’s broader strategy to become the leading premium country house hotel collection in the UK and Channel Islands.

In the past year, Hand Picked Hotels has invested in its estate, strengthened its leadership team, and launched new luxury partnerships with brands including Bollinger, Chapel Down, Blenheim Palace, and the National Motor Museum at Beaulieu.

Ignace Bauwens, group director of Hand Picked Hotels Holdings (Guernsey) Limited, said: "We are excited to welcome our new colleagues from these hotels into the Hand Picked family and to support them through the next chapter of their journey.

"Our immediate focus will be ensuring continuity for guests, supporting colleagues, and working closely with local partners and communities.

"Over time, we will bring the benefits of Hand Picked Hotels’ operational expertise and investment approach while preserving the character and individuality that have made these hotels so successful."

Andrew Brownsword Hotels, owned by the Brownsword family, developed and managed the properties over many years.

John Badley, chief executive officer of Andrew Brownsword Hotels, said: "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.

"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."

Get involved
with the news

Send your news & photos