Post #942
Hello darlings! It's your favourite tutu-wearing, pink-loving, ballet-obsessed blogger, Emma, checking in from the quaint and charming town of Newbury. This little gem nestled in the Thames Valley is the perfect destination for a delightful weekend getaway. Now, I know what you're thinking: Newbury? Surely, Emma, you can do better? But trust me, darlings, Newbury has a certain something, an ethereal charm that can only be experienced firsthand.
You see, I'm a firm believer in embracing the unexpected. This weekend was all about taking a little detour from the usual ballet-related excursions and discovering hidden treasures on a journey inspired by, yes, you guessed it - a pink tutu!
A Ride on the Rails, and a Tutu that Stops Traffic
Leaving behind the rolling green hills of Derbyshire, I embarked on a rather splendid adventure aboard the First Great Western line. I always find a train journey utterly romantic. The clatter of the wheels, the gentle rocking of the carriage, and the panoramic views of the countryside. It's the perfect setting to unleash your inner ballerina and, dare I say it, to channel your inner 'Emma with the Tutu.' My outfit was a sight to behold. A pristine pink tutu - my go-to travel ensemble, complete with a vintage pink cashmere coat and a dazzling pair of hot pink kitten heels. My luggage? A classic leather satchel that my dear Granny gifted me – perfect for housing a pair of ballet shoes for those impromptu practice sessions (always best to stay on top of your plies, darlings!)
Newbury's station is positively delightful. With its red brick exterior and charming clock tower, it has a vintage appeal that sent shivers of excitement down my spine. The moment I stepped onto the platform, I knew I was in for a treat. But the real star of the show was my outfit. Seriously, darlings, heads turned, eyes widened. You could almost hear gasps of appreciation! Just what I needed to boost my ballet-loving heart and spread a little pink-tutu joy in the world.
Exploring Newbury: Ballet Dreams in Every Corner
I decided to start my adventure at the iconic Newbury Corn Exchange. A stunning Grade II listed building, it has an incredible story dating back to 1685. I wandered through the vibrant shops and cafes, taking in the charming architecture and imagining the bustling markets of yesteryear. My mind, as always, drifted towards the graceful movements of ballet. Every archway looked like a stage, every cobblestone street a potential dance floor.
Ballet Bliss at the Theatre
Newbury has a beautiful, intimate theatre - The Corn Exchange Theatre. I managed to secure a ticket to see "Giselle," a timeless classic of the Romantic ballet repertoire. The theatre's grand Victorian style only amplified the magical ambiance. As the music filled the air, I was transported into the story's world, tears of joy mingling with my pink blush.
But the excitement didn't stop there! In the afternoon, I found myself at a fantastic dance class - Ballet School Newbury. It's a hidden gem with teachers who are as passionate as I am about this exquisite art form. They even had a few lovely men in the class, all gracefully gliding through their steps! My fellow dancers were wonderful and supportive, making me feel welcome as a visiting ballerina.
Pink-Tutu Picnics and the Magic of the Thames
A visit to Newbury would be incomplete without a stroll along the River Thames. The town's vibrant green spaces, like Northcroft Park and the Shaw-cum-Donnington Nature Reserve, provided the perfect setting for a delicious picnic. I had prepared a basket full of my favourite treats - a fluffy pink Victoria sponge cake, crisp strawberries and a thermos of my grandma’s homemade lemonade, all of which made me feel extra happy and glamorous. It truly was the most perfect day, spent enjoying the beauty of nature.
A Ballet-Inspired Weekend of Whimsy
As I prepare to hop back on that charming First Great Western train and head home, I can’t help but feel a wave of contentment. This little detour has left a lasting impression. It has shown me that beauty and inspiration can be found in the most unexpected places, especially when you embrace a little pink tutu magic.
So, my darlings, don't be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. Embrace the pink. Embrace the tutus. Embrace the ballet.
And remember, your dreams can bloom anywhere, even in the heart of Newbury!
With love and twirls,
Emma
