Sally Lunn's House

Listen to this article

In 1680, Sally Lunn discovered a hidden talent. She was a young French girl who'd been working in the city of Bath, selling baked goods on the street. After a while, she began to work in the kitchen too, and this is where she began to surprise herself.

Sally was soon regarded as the finest baker in the city, and her concoctions sold literally like hot cakes. The best-seller was an exceptionally light and sweet bun that became her trademark. It’s best served warm, straight from the oven, sliced in half and spread with butter or cream.

Sally Lunn's Kitchen
Photo Gruenemann

These buns were so delicious that they outlived their creator. Sally Lunn died in the early 18th century, but her sweet bread continues to be served, even today. It was particularly popular in Georgian times, so Jane Austen would have eaten her fair share.

Since its creation, bakers from across the world have tried to recreate the Sally Lunn bun. However, the original recipe is a carefully-guarded secret. It's passed on with the deeds to her house, so the only true Sally Lunn buns are still made in Bath, by the owners of that historic property.

Interestingly, the bakery has its own story to tell. It was built in 1482, making it the oldest house in the city. It's twice the age of the many Georgian structures that Bath is famous for. You can take a closer look at the house's past by heading down a steep flight of stairs, into the Sally Lunn Museum. It feels like you're entering the cellar but, 300 years ago, this would have been street level. This is where you'll find the house's original kitchen, still well stocked with ovens, pots and utensils. Down here, in the depths of the house, you can even see the building's old Roman remains. Archaeologists have proven that even then, the house was used for preparing refreshments.

Sally Lunn's Bakery
Photo Gruenemann

Given that the house has such a fine tradition for serving food, it would be a shame to visit without eating any. On the first floor, you'll find a restaurant and tea house, still baking those delicious buns using the original recipe. In the evening, Sally Lunn's famous creation is still on the menu, as part of a full meal. It's served in the traditional “trencher” style, where meat, vegetables and a sauce are all piled on top. Thankfully, the restaurant saves you from making a mess by kindly providing a plate as well.

Sally Lunn's House is open daily for morning coffee, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner. Tel: 01225 461634

Back ~ Top ~ Home ~ Index