Leeds-based hotel group QHotels has acquired the 12-strong Marston Hotels group today for £180m.

The acquisition adds 1,200 bedrooms to the QHotels estate, which now operates 21 properties.

“Marston is a highly reputable hotel chain with properties situated in key strategic locations across the UK,” said Michael Purtill, managing director of QHotels.

“The 12 hotels are already well established in their own right and we recognise they have many qualities that they can bring to QHotels; one area in particular being a very strong health and leisure brand, Reflections, which is something we are keen to develop and share across the group.”

QHotels Group was formed in 2003 by Purtill alongside Ian Goulding and David Taylor, with investment company Alchemy Partners and has invested more than £65m refurbishing its nine properties.

Marston Hotels demerged from WJ Marston Holdings in April 2000 to become an independent chain of luxury four-star hotels. Details: www.qhotels.com

Photograph: Marston's Crewe Hall hotel