Pink Tutu Blog London: Post #779 - Friday, 5th August 2011: Exploring London's Hidden Gems
Hello, darling tutu-lovers! Emma here, fresh from a whirlwind trip to London. It’s Friday, which means it's time for another Pink Tutu Blog London post, straight from my tutu-tastic adventures.
This week, I hopped on the train from Derbyshire with my trusty pink tutu in tow, and made my way to the Big Smoke. Now, London has become synonymous with fashion, culture, and theatre, and this week’s exploration felt extra special - there's just something magical about discovering a new side of a place you already adore.
Before we delve into my sartorial triumphs and cultural conquests, a little something about how I fund my fabulous adventures… I'm a freelance ballet dancer! And yes, that’s a thing! You might not be surprised to hear I’m quite the passionate performer - ballet is my lifeblood, and each twirl earns me enough to jet off on these amazing trips!
Right, back to London. The train journey, as always, was an absolute joy. There's something so exhilarating about being a ballerina with a tutu, watching the world fly past through the train window. I’ve been obsessed with train travel ever since I was little. There's something magical about getting lost in a book, people watching, or enjoying the quiet moments, with just the gentle clickety-clack of the train on the tracks to keep you company.
Speaking of books, I was so thrilled to see this little bookshop on my journey called "The Book Nook" in Matlock Bath. It was like stepping back in time, with shelves brimming with books from every era. I had to buy myself a vintage Agatha Christie – who wouldn’t?!
But back to my London adventure. As soon as I reached my hotel in Victoria, I grabbed my favourite pink tutu, (the one with the hand-sewn tulle and tiny pearl details) and headed out to explore! It wasn’t even midday, but I could feel the excitement buzzing in the air. The sun was shining, London looked breathtaking, and I knew it was going to be a perfect day.
My first stop was the Victoria & Albert Museum, a haven for all things art, design and fashion. I was drawn in by the stunning stained glass windows – their vibrant colours seemed to glow from within! And inside? Oh, darling, the textiles and costumes alone were a dream! They had everything from elaborate Renaissance gowns to exquisite Victorian mourning wear, even some stunning Balmain couture pieces that left me breathless.
Then it was on to Covent Garden, where the hustle and bustle was in full swing. I wandered through the cobbled streets, my pink tutu billowing with every step. Everywhere I looked, there were charming stalls selling everything from delicious gourmet cheeses and colourful floral arrangements, to handmade jewellery and handcrafted souvenirs.
Speaking of handmade, I happened to stumble upon this amazing hat shop called "Hats by Hannah". It’s filled with quirky, fun hats of all shapes, colours, and sizes, just begging to be worn. Hannah herself is a total sweetheart, she showed me around and let me try on several different creations, she even gifted me a sweet pink flower to adorn my own fabulous hat (you bet I'm wearing it when I go back to Derbyshire!)
As evening settled, the air in Covent Garden buzzed with the promise of a theatre show. The Royal Opera House, of course! Tonight’s programme was Swan Lake, and the sheer joy I experienced is hard to explain. The ballet was breathtaking, every graceful leap and powerful extension a testament to the sheer artistry and passion on stage. I felt tears of joy well up in my eyes, especially during the famous dance scene with the cygnets, such beauty and elegance!
But no London trip is complete without a little indulgence. After Swan Lake, I went on a culinary journey at a charming French bistro, nestled in a quiet corner of Covent Garden. The ambiance was magical, candles flickering on the tables, laughter mingling with the soft music playing in the background. And of course, I treated myself to a slice of the decadent chocolate mousse – divine! I couldn’t resist popping into the delightful sweet shop on my way back, which of course led to another purchase, because London's delicious sweet shops are like a weakness, really.
Later on, as I snuggled up in my hotel room, my heart still singing from the ballet and my mind overflowing with images of London’s splendour, I realised something very important. London is about more than just the iconic landmarks; it's about the hidden gems you find tucked away in corners, the joy of unexpected discoveries, and the sheer joy of living life with passion and an open mind.
I had such an amazing Friday.
I know that you darling tutus will be thinking about what’s on tomorrow in London, but we can chat more about what’s on in this amazing city next week. I’ll tell you all about Saturday.
But for now, darling tutu lovers, it’s time to take a final bow on this week's blog post. Remember, even the biggest, busiest cities hold spaces where dreams are born and wonder blossoms. Go out, explore your city, wear that fabulous pink tutu, and embrace the magic that life has to offer!
Until next Friday!
Lots of love,
Emma xox
PS. Be sure to check out the Pink Tutu website, www.pink-tutu.com. There’s a new Pink Tutu Shop just launched and there’s plenty more content including ballet tips, fabulous fashion features, and lots more! It’s all part of spreading the love of pink tutus. Remember - every day can be a Pink Tutu Day!
Further Adventures in London:
This is just a taste of what I got up to on Friday in London. In my next blog post, I'll delve deeper into Saturday's exciting events!
Here's a peek at what I’ve got planned:
Saturday:
- More of London's museums.
- A fashion hunt for the perfect London look.
- London’s best street food tour!
- A glimpse into the magical world of a Ballet Street Show.
I'm already so excited! It's all a part of embracing the magic of a city as full of surprises as London! And who knows, perhaps even you might join me, wearing your favourite Pink Tutu!
Until next Friday, tutu-lovers!
xox