Hey there, lovelies!
It's your favourite Derbyshire gal, Emma, and today I'm bouncing into your feeds straight from the charming city of Carlisle! I have to admit, the journey up was just delightful. I'm not sure if it was the crisp, cold air or the gorgeous scenery that whipped past the train window, but my heart felt like it was doing a little pirouette of its own. I even managed to sneak a nap, nestled among fluffy clouds of pink tulle (I never travel without my trusty pink tutu, naturally!).
But enough about the journey, let's dive into Carlisle, shall we?
My first impression of this ancient city was one of rugged beauty. There's something so magical about the blend of cobbled streets, towering stone castles, and a touch of fairytale magic floating in the air. I felt like I'd stepped into a medieval novel, except with a sprinkle of pink fairy dust. 😉
Speaking of fairy dust, Carlisle's been pretty magical for me. Yesterday, I donned my shimmering pink tutu, the one with the sparkling butterflies, and I took a whimsical wander through the beautiful grounds of Carlisle Castle. You guys, it felt like I was right in the middle of a movie scene - all that stone and history just begging to be danced on!
There was this courtyard, nestled beneath towering, moss-covered walls, bathed in the golden light of the setting sun. It was pure poetry, and I felt compelled to unleash my inner prima ballerina. I twirled beneath the castle's gaze, a cloud of pink against the grey stone. For a fleeting moment, it felt like time stood still.
But Carlisle's not all history and fairytale castles. This vibrant city's got a real, energetic pulse to it. It's a blend of the old and the new, a place where the past coexists harmoniously with the present.
For instance, I just had to check out Tullie House, their very own museum and art gallery. You know me, always up for a bit of culture! I was absolutely smitten with the Egyptian exhibit, with its incredible hieroglyphs and fascinating artefacts. It was a whirlwind of history and discovery, and it sparked so many ideas for my own creative dance pieces!
Another highlight of my trip was exploring the charming cobblestone streets of the city centre. I picked up some adorable little handmade treasures, from quirky vintage buttons to dainty, delicate jewellery – it felt so much more special than anything you could find in a high street shop.
As for food, well, let's just say that Carlisle has my stomach dancing with joy! The local delicacy I tried - a Carlisle Pudding (with buttery pastry, dried fruit and spices - it's divine!) I might have gone back for seconds… Okay, maybe thirds. 🤫
Before leaving Carlisle, I knew I had to experience the beautiful, tranquil scenery of the Lake District. There's a natural magic about those mountains and lakes, and it was so refreshing to breathe in the fresh, invigorating air. I felt truly at peace, walking along the shores of Ullswater Lake, listening to the waves lapping against the shore and admiring the majesty of the fells around me.
As I'm sitting here in my cosy hotel room, finishing off this post, a feeling of peace washes over me. My time in Carlisle was truly magical - it was a perfect blend of culture, history, beauty, and, of course, a little bit of pink fairy dust.
And hey, before you go, I'm always on the hunt for the next beautiful, inspiring place to twirl! Got any suggestions? Let me know in the comments, and if you're looking for some pink tutu inspiration, be sure to check out my latest ballet vlog over on www.pink-tutu.com - you know the drill, link is in my bio!
Sending you all a whole lot of twirling love!
Emma xoxo
