Hello darlings! It's your favourite tutu-wearing, pink-loving ballet bunny, Emma, here, back from another whirlwind adventure! This time, it was the bustling, vibrant streets of East Ham that caught my fancy.
Now, you all know I'm a sucker for a good old-fashioned train journey. It's just something about the rhythm of the tracks and the window views flashing past that gets me in a creative mood. So, armed with a copy of my favourite ballet magazine, a flask of homemade Earl Grey (lavender infused, naturally!), and a sparkly pink hair clip, I boarded the train at Chesterfield station, ready to conquer London once more!
East Ham, a district in the heart of London, was a world away from my tranquil Derbyshire countryside home, but that's what I love about travel - discovering the hidden gems and exciting corners of our incredible planet. This time, it was all about ballet! The Royal Opera House had its famous outreach programme kicking off in East Ham, so naturally, I had to be there.
I arrived in East Ham on a crisp spring morning, a welcome contrast to the chill wind that had accompanied me on the train journey. I walked through the streets, watching the bustle of life, people rushing to work, mothers taking their children to school, everyone with a purpose, their own ballet steps through the day. I felt that familiar urge to dance, the rhythm of the city pulsing through me. And of course, I had to capture some of the vibrant energy of this district for you! I grabbed a couple of snaps of a cheerful flower vendor selling their colourful blooms right by a beautiful old pub called 'The Royal Oak'.
After a quick stop for a delicious cup of chai latte (pink-coloured, of course!) I reached the venue, a community hall with a touch of faded elegance. The Royal Opera House's outreach program is just amazing. Bringing ballet to local communities, inspiring young talent, spreading the magic! Inside, the air buzzed with excitement as the children eagerly awaited the workshops, their eyes twinkling with anticipation.
I felt such a sense of community. It was so heartwarming to see the passion for dance ignite in these youngsters. And that’s the thing, ballet, it’s not just about perfect pirouettes or graceful leaps. It's about discipline, self-expression, and sheer joy. I watched mesmerised as these kids explored the power and beauty of movement.
Later in the afternoon, I treated myself to a well-deserved trip to a charming little cafe for some cake. I just couldn’t resist the call of a perfectly baked Victoria Sponge with its delightful swirls of strawberry jam and thick creamy icing!
Afterwards, I ventured into the nearby Green Street, a haven of delicious scents, vibrant colours, and the bustling sounds of the East Ham community. The vibrant culture, the aromatic spices, and the warm friendly faces, made my heart soar! I saw little kids excitedly picking out colourful fabrics and felt that the spirit of community was very much alive in this little piece of East London.
But let’s be real, you all know what's going to top my blog today – that majestic white horse, all shiny and proud, standing on the street corner! (I mean, you wouldn’t expect me to visit any place without a little horse spotting, would you? 😉). He was so majestic, just standing there, as if in a timeless tableau, with his gleaming white coat and a shiny brown leather saddle, ready for an exciting adventure! I have to say, riding on horseback is a true delight. That freedom, that connection with the animal, that galloping wind in your hair! If you haven't had the chance to go on a horseback ride, I urge you to try it. It's an experience that truly awakens the soul!
Of course, I didn't leave East Ham without a souvenir. And this time, it’s not a piece of art, a sparkly necklace, or even a fragrant candle - but a pair of colourful little socks adorned with tiny pink ballerinas! The cutest things ever!
The journey back on the train was just as enjoyable as the trip there. The rhythmic clatter of the train wheels and the gentle rocking motion worked wonders, and I couldn’t help but tap my foot to an imaginary beat. As the day wound down and I left East Ham behind, I carried with me not just a newfound appreciation for this vibrant London borough, but also the sheer joy of being able to share it with all of you.
Now, darling readers, tell me! Have you ever ventured to East Ham? What are your favourite little quirks and hidden gems? What are some of your favourite ways to travel, from luxurious train journeys to soaring flights or horseback rides? I’d love to hear your thoughts! And of course, I’d also love to see you in a pink tutu – just think, how wonderful it would be to spread the love and joy of ballet to the whole world, one tutu at a time!
Until next time, my lovely ballet bunnies! Keep twirling!
Love,
Emma 💖🩰
