When it comes to iconic places that represent the history of Bath, England, many people think of the famous Roman Baths or the Royal Crescent. However, there is one place that has captured the hearts and taste buds of locals and tourists alike: Sally Lunn’s half-timbered medieval tea room. This historic tea room is known for its delicious Sally Lunn bun, a soft and sweet bread that has become a staple in Bath. In this article, we’ll explore the story behind this iconic bread and the history of Sally Lunn’s tea room.
Who Was Sally Lunn?
Sally Lunn was a French Huguenot who fled religious persecution in the 1680s and settled in Bath. She opened a small bakery business in the city, where she created her famous sandwich. The origin of the name is uncertain, but it is thought that it derives from the French term “soleil et lune” (sun and moon), referring to its characteristic shape. Another version says that the person’s name was Solange Luyon. Regardless of the origin of the name, Sally Lunn’s bun quickly became a hit in Bath and beyond.
The Kitchen-Museum
Sally Lunn’s small basement kitchen, where she made her famous bun, has been preserved as a museum. Visitors can see the old kitchen tools and immerse themselves in the history of this place. The kitchen-museum was opened to the public in 1937 and is a very popular attraction in Bath. Visitors can learn about the history of Sally Lunn’s bun and the woman behind it.
The Famous Sally Lunn Bun
The Sally Lunn bun has become famous for its softness and sweetness, but also for its versatility. It can be served with butter, jam, cream, cheese or smoked salmon. Today, Sally Lunn’s Tea Room offers a range of sweet and savory versions of the sandwich, made with high-quality ingredients and following Sally Lunn’s original recipe. The recipe for the bun has been passed down through generations, and the tea room’s bakers still make it using the original ingredients and techniques.
Sally Lunn’s Tea Room
Sally Lunn’s half-timbered medieval tea room is a unique and atmospheric place, with its low ceilings, wooden beams and stone walls. Here visitors can enjoy the Sally Lunn bun and other delicacies, accompanied by tea, coffee or hot chocolate. The tea room is open every day except Christmas. Visitors can sit in the cozy tearoom and imagine what it was like in the past.
The Queues
The fame of the Sally Lunn bun has meant that there is always a long queue outside the tea room. However, the owners have made sure that visitors don’t have to wait too long by providing information on peak times and seating availability. Visitors can reserve a table in advance to avoid long waits. Many people are willing to wait to experience this iconic place and its delicious food.
Sally Lunn’s Legacy
Sally Lunn’s bun has become a symbol of Bath’s culinary heritage. It has inspired countless imitations and variations over the years. However, Sally Lunn’s tea room remains the best place to try the original bun and immerse oneself in the history of this iconic place. Sally Lunn’s bun is an example of how a simple recipe and a talented baker can create something that lasts for centuries and captures the imagination of people from all over the world.
