#PinkTutuBlogLondon Friday 2010-03-19 Exploring London

Hello darlings! It’s your favourite pink tutu-wearing ballerina, Emma, and welcome to another fabulous Friday from the Pink Tutu Blog!

Today I’m sharing all the delightful adventures I’ve had in the Big Smoke. I took the train down from Derbyshire this morning, leaving the Peak District’s stunning views behind for a weekend of London loveliness! Nothing beats the rhythm of the train wheels, a steaming mug of tea, and my trusty tutu bag full of exciting outfits for the days ahead.

I simply adore trains – there’s something so magical about them! They whisk you away from the ordinary and deliver you straight into the heart of adventure. This time, it’s London, calling me with its bustling energy and the promise of brilliant shows, incredible shopping, and even a spot of ballet practice.

Stepping off the train at Euston, I practically floated towards the Royal Opera House. I simply had to see what treasures they held. The building is truly majestic, and I spent ages just gazing at its ornate façade.

Inside, the grandeur continued! From the opulent foyer to the elegant, velvety-red auditorium, it was like stepping back in time. It’s not often you get to be in such an iconic venue, so I was absolutely thrilled to be able to wander through the stalls, take photos in the grand foyer, and soak in the history and energy of this famous theatre.

After an impromptu twirl (it was a ballet blogger's duty, you know!), I made my way to the ROH’s bookshop – a veritable wonderland for anyone who loves ballet! I stocked up on a few new titles, picked up some exquisite ballerina jewellery (I can never resist!), and even scored a gorgeous limited-edition pink ballet slipper keychain – how perfectly fitting!

From there, it was straight to Oxford Street – the undisputed Queen of London shopping! Of course, no shopping expedition would be complete without a stop at my favourite department store, Liberty London! The building itself is like a beautiful, fairytale palace with a riot of colour and design. It's hard to walk past the windows without getting caught up in the joy and beauty inside.

Today's focus was my tutus, of course. This little pink flamingo had a little secret stash tucked away in my suitcase! Oh, darling, it's a dream! Made from shimmering, soft tulle, it has the most incredible shade of pastel pink. It even came with a darling pink tulle bow – how could I resist? I envision it twirling in London's iconic settings, from the bustling streets of Covent Garden to the charming walkways of Hyde Park. I already have a few ideas for photo shoots… stay tuned!

From the fashion of Oxford Street, I hopped on a bus and went straight to the magical streets of Covent Garden. The vibrant atmosphere of Covent Garden is impossible to resist! I popped in a few of the independent boutiques (ooh, they have such incredible vintage dresses!) and found myself browsing the charming little stalls tucked away between the main thoroughfare.

Covent Garden’s architecture is truly something else, with a mix of Victorian and modern styles. But the real magic comes alive in the afternoon – street performers galore! From dancers and acrobats to singers and comedians, it’s a feast for the senses! I watched a mesmerising display of traditional Irish dance, my toes tapping along. I was absolutely mesmerised by their vibrant energy and incredible talent. They reminded me so much of the beautiful ballet dancers in Derbyshire, and I think there’s something truly special about seeing dancers bring joy to people’s days in this unique way.

No trip to London is complete without a delicious afternoon tea. I took myself to the cutest little café in Bloomsbury – The Bloomsbury Hotel – to indulge in scones, sandwiches, and of course, the most beautiful cup of tea. They even have dainty little teacups with ballerina patterns on them! This felt truly fitting for the ballerina's tea party of dreams.

I tucked into my delicious treat and caught up on all the latest ballet news in a magazine. Of course, they were all raving about the latest production of Swan Lake at the Royal Opera House. I even glimpsed a glimpse of the current principal ballerina in a stunning, dramatic pink tutu - and my own tutu felt ready to steal the stage!

As the evening descended upon London, my heart fluttered with excitement. The stage was set for the ballet performance I’d been waiting for: a spectacular production of "Giselle" at the beautiful Sadler's Wells Theatre.

Let me tell you, darling, this show was truly breathtaking! It felt so raw and emotionally charged. The dancers were exquisite, so delicate yet powerful – the costumes were stunning. The entire experience took my breath away. I was utterly transported to the enchanting world of "Giselle" – even shedding a tear or two at the tragic love story of the ethereal, ethereal Giselle. It’s moments like these that I realise how deeply connected I am to the world of ballet and its beauty.

The grand finale, with all the ballerinas dressed in elegant white tutus, sent shivers down my spine. And oh, that final flourish! As the lights dimmed and the applause swelled, I felt that familiar thrill, that urge to take a deep breath and twirl myself out into the night – London, I am ready!

It’s been a fantastic day exploring London with my trusty pink tutu in tow. And as I sit down to write this, still buzzing from the "Giselle" show, I realise: London is calling.

There’s so much more to see, so many more stories to unfold. Maybe I’ll check out the new musical everyone’s raving about or spend another day exploring the trendy vintage shops of Shoreditch… I feel the tutu spirit buzzing with excitement, just waiting to embrace the weekend adventures!

And don’t worry darlings, I’ll be sharing it all with you! This is only the beginning, just a tiny taste of the magic London has to offer. Remember, there’s a pink tutu princess in every girl. So find yours, darling, and don’t be afraid to twirl!

And now, back to my hotel room, a well-deserved cuppa in hand, to plan tomorrow’s tutu-ific adventures. Stay tuned for more from Pink Tutu Blog London next week!

Sending lots of pink tutus,

Emma