Hello my darlings! It's your favourite tutu-wearing traveller, Emma, back with another Pink Tutu Blog post! Iām currently twirling through the streets of London, the air buzzing with excitement and the streets teeming with fashionable folk! I arrived in the capital earlier today, having taken the trusty train down from my beloved Derbyshire. There's nothing quite like a train journey, with its gentle rocking, views rushing by, and endless opportunities to daydream and sketch. And yes, of course, I wore my favourite pink tutu for the journey! I've found that tutus make travelling much more enjoyable ā you never know who you'll meet, or who will be inspired to twirl alongside you.
This trip marks my 1496th blog post and I'm thrilled to be sharing it with you. I truly believe in spreading the pink tutu love! If you haven't donned a pink tutu yet, you're missing out! Itās the perfect accessory for everything from grocery shopping to gala balls. Why not embrace a little whimsy? Iāve even started a Pink Tutu club at my local ballet class - the energy is contagious!
Now, on to the real reason I'm here: exploring London! This weekend is jam-packed with exciting activities: a West End show, some serious shopping in Covent Garden, and, of course, ballet class! Let's jump into this whirlwind Friday and see what delights this grand city has in store.
Train Tracks and Tutu Travels
The train journey from Derbyshire to London is always a delight, the rolling countryside and quaint towns giving way to the bustling London suburbs. This time, the journey was even more memorable thanks to a delightful conversation I had with an elderly gentleman sitting across from me. He turned out to be a retired actor, sharing fascinating stories of his days in theatre. He even regaled me with anecdotes from the "good old days" of the West End - did you know that Dame Maggie Smith used to frequent a little tea shop just down the street from my current hotel?! The conversation gave me so much inspiration. He even had some helpful tips for finding vintage fashion treasures in London. He promised me "one-of-a-kind pieces, darling," which sounded perfectly my style. I thanked him for the stories and the tips before grabbing a cuppa and a few delectable pastries from the charming cafe trolley. The train ride flew by with such lovely company!
Checking into a Palace
After a brief journey on the Tube - and let me tell you, there's something truly special about zipping underground in London - I reached my hotel: The Grand Regency. Itās a true vintage delight, with ornate furnishings, plush carpets, and a friendly staff. The highlight of my room, however, was the massive bay window looking out onto Hyde Park! Oh, the views! They're simply magical. Iām planning to enjoy an afternoon tea later in this elegant room, overlooking the gardens ā the perfect setting for catching up on my latest knitting project (another secret passion!). I've already had my first twirl of the day, here, and let me tell you, it was like I was pirouetting amongst clouds!
Ballet Beauty
After settling into my grand lodgings, it was off to dance class. You see, my pink tutu adventures are always fuelled by ballet! Dancing is my heart and soul. This evening, I took a beginnersā class at a beautiful studio in Bloomsbury. It was so exciting to watch the students with varying levels of experience come together to share a love for dance. The teacher was amazing ā a lovely gentleman with the patience of a saint and the grace of a dancer. He even had the sweetest twinkle in his eye, like a mischievous sprite hiding beneath his professional persona. After the class, he introduced me to a group of lovely students. I couldn't help but ask them for recommendations for vintage clothing shops in London - the gentleman who met me on the train mentioned Bloomsbury was the perfect place to start my vintage adventure. I can't wait to dig for unique treasures!
Dining Delight in Bloomsbury
Dinner was a delightful experience. We decided to try a charming restaurant recommended by the ballet studio called The Bloomsbury Kitchen. It's known for its inventive vegetarian and vegan cuisine, all served with a touch of whimsy! I was instantly drawn to their unique plates of food and charming service - they even decorated our table with fresh lavender and blooming rosemary, a perfect floral flourish! The āWild Mushroom Tartā with Truffle oil, accompanied by a salad made with the freshest baby spinach leaves and bursting with seasonal flavors, was absolute heaven. I finished the evening with their delicate āLavender & Honeyā dessert - a delicate taste sensation with fragrant floral notes. Itās the perfect blend of sophisticated cuisine and genuine, welcoming service. I left feeling truly satisfied, both with the meal and the friendly ambiance.
And the Best Part...?
Iāve finished the evening in the lounge of my hotel with a cup of fragrant chamomile tea and a stack of ballet magazines. Iām still buzzing from my exciting dance class and I feel totally at peace with my beautiful hotel surroundings. And thereās a part of me thatās already looking forward to tomorrow ā a full day exploring London's vintage shops.
If you are reading this and are feeling adventurous, my lovely friends, I suggest putting on your best pink tutu (or a simple pink ribbon around your hair, maybe a pink scarf!) and come on, join me in embracing all that is beautiful and feminine! You never know what magical experiences await you - there is a delightful world of adventure, waiting to be explored. Remember, London is filled with history, glamour and so many exciting stories waiting to be uncovered.
Until next time, my dears! Keep twirling, and remember, every day is a beautiful adventure waiting to unfold.
Lots of love,
Emma
xxx
P.S. Don't forget to visit my website www.pink-tutu.com to find out more about my Pink Tutu adventures. Follow me on social media for all my London travel adventures, including outfit picks, fun tips, and my daily tutu looks!
Saturday Morning AdventuresHello again, dear readers!
As the city begins to awaken, the sunshine filtering through my window awakens my senses to another exciting day of London exploration. There is something exhilarating about experiencing the calm before the storm of a busy London day ā I love that this city is never truly quiet. After a cup of fragrant Earl Grey tea with my favourite lemon biscotti, it was time to venture out!
A Covent Garden Wonderland
The first stop on today's itinerary: the iconic Covent Garden market! I adore this colourful, bustling market. Today is market day so it is a symphony of scents, sights, and sounds. There's vibrant floral displays packed with every imaginable colour and fragrance. From traditional bunches of lilies to delicate bouquets of lavender, it's a floral haven. You canāt help but feel instantly joyful in this intoxicating haven!
The first stop had to be a trip to the little cake stand, where I found the most delicious pistachio macaroons Iāve ever had - they were so fragrant and delicate!
Then, it was on to the vintage haven of the market, where I found myself browsing stalls full of exquisite retro gems. I canāt leave a vintage market without a few purchases, of course. And this time was no different - a vintage ballet skirt with floral patterns was practically begging me to add it to my collection. The fabric felt so light and ethereal; it even has the most delicate ruffles along the hem. And yes, it is most definitely pink - with hints of lavender! I think Iāll make an outfit out of it with my trusty pink tutu, paired with a floral headpiece, of course!
I also managed to snag a stunning brooch, which will perfectly match the vintage tutu. I always think vintage jewellery, with its rich history and intricate designs, adds that extra bit of elegance to my everyday outfits! I felt as if Iād discovered little treasures!
After my shopping spree, I settled for a tea in one of the traditional cafes - I couldn't resist a pot of tea and some traditional English scones with clotted cream!
A Theatre Dream
But Covent Gardenās appeal goes far beyond the shops and the street entertainment, of course. Itās home to the magnificent Royal Opera House ā an absolute must-visit for any ballet fanatic! And today, I'm lucky enough to be attending "The Nutcracker," one of my absolute favourite ballet performances.
You can never truly grasp the magnificence of a grand performance until youāve experienced the magic of live theatre. It was an unforgettable experience! Watching the dancers glide effortlessly across the stage was a delight - the costumes, the lighting, and the set were exquisite.
Thereās no denying the emotional depth that ballet brings, and to experience it amidst the majesty of the Royal Opera House was truly magical! Thereās just something so captivating about witnessing dancers telling their stories through movements ā their graceful spins and breathtaking leaps were just simply captivating! The whole experience felt like stepping into a dream. I was enchanted from beginning to end!
Shopping Therapy and Fashion Fun
A little shopping therapy always seems to elevate a London day - after āThe Nutcrackerā, my friends and I set off on a tour of Westfield London in Shepherdās Bush. I must admit, itās a veritable temple to retail - and there is simply something delightful about being surrounded by aisles brimming with endless options for creating a truly perfect look.
First, it was onto the shoe aisle ā how could it be any other way, right? Itās my personal opinion, but ballet shoes canāt truly compete with a stunning pair of stilettos ā so, needless to say, I had a browse, and fell completely for a pair of lavender satin heels! They were utterly divine! They had a hint of vintage and sophistication with a timeless elegance. Iāve promised myself Iāll add them to my next Pink Tutu London adventures post on www.pink-tutu.com .
Finally, no visit to London can ever truly be complete without a peek at the famed department stores. I couldnāt resist an afternoon of splurging in Harrods and Liberty.
Both stores were havens for fashion lovers and I canāt help but love the exquisite, and somewhat eccentric, decor ā from Harrods marble floors to the ornate interiors of Liberty. There is truly nothing like a luxurious shopping spree! Iāve walked away with some delectable perfumes - I just canāt resist a delightful floral aroma - and an amazing velvet shawl ā you just canāt resist the richness of the color and texture of velvet! Itās simply timeless!
A Twirling Farewell
London has left me absolutely enchanted. This magical city has a captivating magic and so many beautiful adventures to offer, from stunning vintage shops and delightful markets to captivating ballet performances.
With each visit, my love for London only grows, and this journey was just the perfect dose of feminine charm, excitement, and enchantment.
It is almost midnight here. And now itās time for bed. Tomorrow, it is time for me to hop back on the train to my little village and return to my simple but lovely life back in Derbyshire!
Until next time, darling readers - keep twirling and stay safe!
Love, Emma
xxx
