Hello my darling tutu-loving friends! It's your favourite Derbyshire gal Emma, back with another installment from the world of pink tutus and pirouettes, straight from my little pink-filled corner of the internet, www.pink-tutu.com! Today, we're frolicking in the charming town of Fleet, a destination that’s stolen my heart with its delectable delights and a touch of fairytale charm.
This post is a little bit special, as it's the 1452nd blog post since I began sharing my love for tutus and twirls with the world! Isn't that just unbelievable? It’s amazing how many twirls it takes to create a life in pink!
I started my day in Fleet the way any ballerina should: with a breakfast fit for a princess! I was whisked away in a beautiful, vintage, bright-pink horse-drawn carriage (don't you just love it when travel and ballet intertwine so effortlessly?) to a little tea shop called “The Sugar Plum,” with a menu featuring the most charming treats you could imagine.
Can you imagine my delight when I found out they even had a “pink tutu” breakfast! It was a tower of delicate pink macarons stacked high, a bowl of juicy strawberries swimming in whipped cream, and a glass of chilled sparkling pink lemonade. All served with a cute little tulle-edged napkin and a silver crown for the perfect royal touch!
You just know it was absolutely delicious – as pretty as a picture and bursting with flavour. My only regret is that I can’t magically shrink the deliciousness and carry it around with me for all my tutu travels!
Fleet itself is a haven for whimsical treats. The shop fronts were bursting with colourful florals and twinkling lights, giving the town a sweet and ethereal vibe. I spotted the cutest pink and white striped awning and just had to snap a picture. (Don't worry, the #PinkTutu hashtag is already on there!).
After my sugar plum-fuelled start, it was time to get my twirl on! Fleet is nestled on the edge of a beautiful woodland, and the open space was the perfect setting for a spontaneous ballet session! Now, I might not be the most advanced dancer (though I'm still learning!) but my passion knows no bounds, and it was so refreshing to feel the wind whipping my pink tutu and my laughter filling the air.
Speaking of wildlife, it wouldn't be a true Emma adventure without a glimpse into the fascinating world of animals. Just after my ballet break, I found myself in the Fleet Pond Nature Reserve, a hidden gem with meandering paths and a tranquil lake. The place buzzed with life: birds chirping, butterflies fluttering, and ducks paddling on the crystal-clear waters. I could almost feel my soul aligning with the serenity of the wild, a wonderful sensation that is simply impossible to express with words.
Oh, I'd almost forgotten - the absolute highlight of my day had to be the "Tea with Tutus" workshop at a charming local dance studio. It was simply the most delightful afternoon, full of tutus and treats! We twirled and laughed, learnt a little about ballet history (I actually discovered the "Fleet Fandango," an adorable local folk dance with a hint of tutus - what a discovery!), and indulged in some incredibly delicious pink cake with miniature ballerina figurines on top.
Can I just tell you, all these ladies (who are now totally going to wear pink tutus after our afternoon of tutulicious fun!) were all absolutely enthralled by the ballet-themed treats. My favourite part was when one lady took me aside and told me how her granddaughter was completely obsessed with tutus thanks to my blog. My heart melted - I just love bringing a bit of pink tutu magic into people's lives!
The whole day in Fleet was like a delicate dream come true. From the exquisite sweet treats to the invigorating dance session in the sunshine and the wonder of nature, it was truly a perfect escape for this tutu-loving girl.
And, I just had to make my escape from Fleet in style! After the day’s adventures, I couldn't possibly settle for a mundane taxi, so instead I decided to get myself to the train station on horseback, a magnificent white stallion. As we trotted through the tranquil countryside, I swear I saw the most glorious pink sunset! The perfect ending to a perfect day, I tell you.
As the sun set on my time in Fleet, I couldn't help but feel a wave of gratitude. It was such a joyous experience - full of colour, wonder, and that delicate blend of whimsy and ballet that my soul craves. But I do think that you need to visit Fleet for yourselves! Just don't forget to pack your best pink tutu, because after all, you just never know when you might find yourself spontaneously twirling under a beautiful English sky.
Until next time, darling tutu lovers, twirl happily!
Love,
Emma
💖🩰
www.pink-tutu.com
