It seems like seafood platters are all the rage right now. As seafood lovers, we had already tried the options at the Brancaster White Horse and The Maltsters in Ranworth, so we were excited to try the new Coastal Platter from the Globe Inn in Wells-Next-the-Sea.
Unfortunately the Coastal Platter is no longer on the menu at The Globe Inn in Wells-next-the-sea. Maybe it will make a comeback one day – at least we can hope.
*We were invited to a press event to try the Coastal Platter, so that we could write this review and share our experience with our readers.
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About the Globe Inn
The Globe Inn is a 19th-century coaching inn that overlooks a pretty green Georgian Square in Wells-Next-the-Sea just a short walk from the Quay. It has been accredited with 4 stars, earned a silver award from Enjoy England, and approved by the Visit England Cyclists Welcome, Walkers Welcome and Welcome Pets schemes.
In June 2013, Stephen and Antonia Bournes, who had been managing Southwold’s iconic pier, took over The Globe. They bought it from the Holkham estate which had tenanted it to Adnams since 2008. It was purchased by The Chestnut Group in March 2020 and recently underwent a refurbishment.
The Globe has a bar, restaurant, outdoor courtyard, and 19 guest rooms. The new decor is inspired by the town’s maritime charm with a wide-ranging mix of travel memorabilia. The brickwork and beams are complimented with walnut timbers, coastal inspired fabrics, soft pastels, and brass and antique lighting.
The Chestnut Group also owns several other popular pubs in East Anglia including the Ship at Dunwich, The Westleton Crown, the Black Lion in Long Melford, the Feathers in Holt, and the Wiveton Bell near Blakeney, to name a few.
The Globe Inn Coastal Platter
The chefs at the Globe take pride in producing locally sourced meals that embrace the region’s nautical heritage. The Coastal Platter was created as a celebration of the area and local suppliers from Brancaster to Cromer.
Let’s take a look at what you get when you order this seafood platter.
Half Sheringham Dressed Lobster – You get a good-sized half lobster that has been cooked and is served chilled.
Cromer Dressed Crab – Russell’s favourite part of the platter was the Cromer crab because you could taste the freshness and the meat high quality. It was also much bigger than the crabs we’ve managed to catch ourselves (which we always return to the sea).
Four Brancaster Oysters – For me, the oysters were the highlight of the platter. Some of the oysters had diced cucumbers and granny smith apples which cut through the saltiness of the oysters nicely. It also came with red wine vinegar and shallots to put on the other oysters.
Shell on Crevettes – These extra-large prawns were cooked perfectly and didn’t even need any sauce (although I did try one with a little garlic aioli). It was worth the effort to remove the shell.
Aspall Pickled Cockles – These cockles were probably the best I have ever eaten. While they were pickled, they also had a hint of sweetness.
Staithe Smokehouse Taramasalata – This creamy dip made from roe was served with crisp melba toast. Even though I typically don’t like roe, I loved this dip.
Sourdough – I have a thing for sourdough so I was excited to see it as part of the platter. I ate some on its own and then also used some to wipe up more of the Taramasalata.
Roasted Garlic Aioli & Lemon – I dipped a crevette in the roasted garlic aioli which was tasty, but I’m not sure the seafood needed the sauce. The taste of the seafood on its own was perfection.
The seafood was served on a metal tray with some crushed ice to keep it all cold. The sourdough was presented on a separate plate.
Other Menu Options
The Coastal Platter is not the only thing on the menu at the Globe. Their menu changes seasonally to take advantage of the fresh food from the local area. Expect lighter dishes like alfresco crab salads during the Summer months and more hearty grub like mackerel and chips during the winter.
On the menu, you can find regional British fare from land and sea, all with a global touch. They have options for those who are vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free, and nut-free. On Sundays, they also offer two choices for roast dinners.
Next time I go, I might have to try the Butterflied Mackerel with split pea dahl, spinach, and curried mango or the Bone Marrow Brisket Burger with truffle and parmesan fries. The Norfolk Cheese platter also sounds amazing.
I should also mention the wide variety of beverages available. You can choose from real ales, local gins, or a well-stocked wine cellar. They have a large selection of wines available by the glass.
Overall Review of Dining at the Globe Inn
We loved everything about the Globe Inn. From the food to the wine, to the decor, to the service, it all contributes to a positive experience. The weather was also just about perfect when we dined at the Globe so we were lucky to be able to sit in their secluded courtyard.
This will definitely not be the last time we go to the Globe. I look forward to enjoying more of their menu and wine list.
Read more reviews on Tripadvisor here.
Is the Coastal Platter at the Globe Inn Worth It?
At £68 for the Coastal Platter you are paying for the quality, freshness and provenance of the seafood and it’s worth it. The Platter is meant for sharing and that’s part of the fun of it.
Everyone has their preferences and both the variety and quantity of dishes on The Globe Inn’s Coastal Platter should cater for everyone’s tastes. Maybe one person isn’t a great fan of oysters but loves the prawns. Perhaps the other one really likes the cockles. However you divide it up, there’s plenty for two people.
The Globe Inn Coastal Platter FAQs
The Globe Inn’s Coastal Platter is £68 and can be shared by two people.
While it’s not required, I would recommend booking your table at the Globe in Wells in advance, especially during the summer months, to avoid disappointment.
Yes. They have a kids menu. If you need suggestions for family-friendly things to do in the area, check out our picks for the best things to do in Norfolk with kids.
The Globe Inn is located by the Buttlands Park in the seaside town of Wells-Next-the-Sea in North Norfolk. It’s just a short walk south of the Quayside area.
There is a small car park by the green directly in front of the pub. Alternatively, the Stearmans Yard Car Park is a short walk away.
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