A specialist property agent for the hospitality sector has revealed it is handling at least 11 Cotswold hotel and pub deals totaling £13 million.

It is understood the deals are either underway or completed - and have all taken place in the "last few months alone".

Peter Brunt, a director in the hotels agency team at Colliers International, said the Cotswolds remained a jewel in the crown of the UK tourist industry.

"The popularity of the Cotswolds has never wavered. Very few of the pubs, hotels or Bed & Breakfasts in the whole area which are put up for sale are on the market for long.," said Mr Brunt.

"The region enjoys a high profile in London because of its reputation as a chic and trendy celebrity hot-spot and because of its gorgeous towns and villages and truly fabulous countryside."

He added: "Honeypot locations such as the Cotswolds do seem immune to any negativity in the market. It's a copper-bottomed location in which to trade leading to significant market activity.

"Although we have always enjoyed our deliberately high profile in the area we also operate on a slightly less obvious level, putting buyers and owners in touch for off-market introductions."

Four of the 11 properties currently being marketed by Colliers in the area are confidential sales.

Mr Brunt added: "Quality freeholds in the region are rarely available and when they are placed on the market they represent a wonderful opportunity for buyers to acquire a quality business with the benefit of year-round trade.

"It is a micro market that has perennial high demand from operators because the trading opportunities are so strong. It is also attractive to first-time entrants and newcomers to the sector, particularly those from London and the South East who often know the region and find it accessible.

"The Cotswolds benefits from extraordinary national and international factors - but the backdrop to our success this Spring remains our heritage and location. It's a favourite destination for celebrities which gives further gloss to an area with outstanding natural advantages in terms of its history and geography.

"Classic England as far as visitors are concerned, the Cotswolds are studded with pretty villages the majority of which are easy accessibility from the capital.

"Increased numbers of people taking staycations this summer will be further boosted by large numbers of foreign visitors and the popularity of the Bicester retail outlet."