Seven UK properties that formed part of the von Essen Hotels portfolio have been acquired by Halcyon Hotels and Resorts, the hospitality operator owned by Nigel Chapman.

The purchase comes six years after Halcyon sold five hotels to the von Essen group. Hotels now under the group's ownership include the 27-suite Thornbury Castle Hotel near Bristol.

Fowey Hall in Cornwall, a 32-bedroom property dating back to 1898; The Elms in Abberley, Worcestershire; and Moonfleet Manor near Weymouth are also among the seven.

The remaining hotels acquired by Halcyon are Wooley Grange in Bradford-on-Avon; New Park Manor in Hampshire; and The East Wing at Ickworth, which is leased from the National Trust.

Christie + Co managing director Chris Day said: "We're delighted to have sold such a significant package of von Essen hotels to Halcyon Hotels and Resorts which now has an excellent ready-made addition to its growing portfolio."

Image: Thornbury Castle Hotel