The young chef team at a Norfolk hotel is racking up accolades after being included in the Michelin Guide.

The Dial House in Reepham has been added to the prestigious list for the first time, which recognises businesses that stand out from the pack in terms of the quality of their food.

The team behind the success is led by 25-year-old chef Sofi-Marie Ford, who is "one of the best we've ever employed" according to hotel owner Hannah Springham.

Dereham Times: Hannah Springham and Andrew Jones, owners of Dial house in ReephamHannah Springham and Andrew Jones, owners of Dial house in Reepham (Image: Newsquest)

She said: "We are absolutely elated at this exciting news and the team thoroughly deserves it.

"Sofi is a real talent and we have so much respect for her and the rest of our chefs.

"We've worked really hard to get the food up to a fantastic level to match the quality of the hotel rooms and it was great news to find out on a dreary day in January.

"We've built a great female-led team which is unusual for the industry and it has never been better - they are nailing it."

Dereham Times: The Dial House in Reepham has been included in the Michelin Guide 2023The Dial House in Reepham has been included in the Michelin Guide 2023 (Image: Dial House)

The "unique" 17th-century Dial House in Reepham - which is Grade II listed and was originally built as a brewery - is run by Hannah Springham and Andrew Jones, of Norwich's Farmyard restaurant, who took over the business in 2018.

It has previously gained three AA rosettes and has been included in the Good Hotel Guide 2022.

This week, the award-winning Farmyard celebrated its sixth birthday, which has also been included in the Michelin Guide previously. 

Dereham Times: Dishes served at the Dial House in ReephamDishes served at the Dial House in Reepham (Image: Dial House)

Ms Springham added: "Hospitality is a tough business so it feels fantastic to have got this far. 

"Achievements like this mean even more after the challenges in recent years so it is a real boost for the team and is well-deserved."

Dereham Times: The kitchen team at Dial House in ReephamThe kitchen team at Dial House in Reepham (Image: Dial House)

Dial House was put up for sale for £1.2m in September last year and remains on the market but it continues to be business as usual for the hotel.

"We've had a great year and when it does get taken over they will have a brilliant business with a great team in place.

"For now we will keep serving up great food and offering rooms for a lovely stay in Norfolk."

Dereham Times: A roast dinner served at Dial House house in ReephamA roast dinner served at Dial House house in Reepham (Image: Dial House)