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Sally Lunn

Bath, History, Sally Lunn -

Sally Lunn

Sally Lunn was a legendary figure associated with a type of sweet bun that originated in the English city of Bath. According to popular tradition, Sally Lunn was a French Huguenot refugee who arrived in Bath in the late 17th century and began making and selling the buns from a small bakery in the city.

Sally lunns house in Bath, image of the museum of the bakery

They became popular among the fashionable society of Bath and were soon sold in teahouses and taverns throughout the city. The fame of the Sally Lunn bun eventually spread beyond Bath, and it became a popular delicacy throughout England and beyond. The Sally Lunn bun is a light and fluffy bun that is similar to a brioche and made from a rich, yeasted dough. It is usually split in half and served with sweet or savory toppings, such as butter, jam, cream, or smoked salmon. The recipe for the bun is said to be a closely guarded secret, and the Sally Lunn House still serves them to this day.

The Sally Lunn House is a historic building located in Bath, England. It is a popular tourist attraction and is known for its association with Sally Lunn.

The building dates back to the 15th century and is located on North Parade Passage in the city center. It has been used as a bakery since the 1680s and is said to be one of the oldest houses in Bath. The name "Sally Lunn" is said to have come from the French Sol et lune, meaning "sun and moon", a reference to the shape of the buns.

The house is now a museum and tea room, where visitors can learn about the history of the building and the legend of Sally Lunn. The tea room serves a range of traditional English afternoon tea treats, as well as the famous Sally Lunn buns. It's a must-visit spot for anyone interested in the history of baking and the culinary traditions of England.
Despite the popularity of the bun, little is known about the real Sally Lunn, and it is possible that she was a fictional character invented to lend a colorful backstory to the famous pastry. Regardless of the truth of the legend, the Sally Lunn bun remains a beloved part of English culinary tradition to this day. You can find out more about our neighbours here in Bath here.