Good morning, lovelies! It’s your favourite pink tutu-clad ballerina, Emma, writing to you live from the cobbled streets of Chester. It’s been a whirlwind couple of days, and I'm buzzing with excitement - ready to share it all with you.
As you know, I’m a huge fan of exploring the world - by train, of course! The chug-chug of the carriages, the delicious smell of the buffet car... It's an adventure all its own! So, last weekend, I packed my sparkly pink luggage (it’s essential to have some bling, even for a weekend away!), slipped on my most fabulous tutu, and hopped on a train heading towards Chester. I always bring my pink ballet shoes along for the journey – a girl's gotta be prepared for any impromptu pirouette opportunities!
Chester itself is an absolute dream. I'm in love with the old, stone buildings, the quaint little shops selling handmade crafts, and the river that snakes through the heart of the city. Honestly, it's straight out of a fairytale.
My first stop had to be the Chester Grosvenor, a magnificent hotel oozing charm and history. Now, let’s be honest – you can’t expect me to spend my precious time indoors, even if it is a five-star hotel. The first thing I did after arriving was to step onto the cobblestones and inhale the fresh air. I found myself on Eastgate Street, walking past Tudor houses and antique shops that I imagined would have been bursting with customers when the city was a thriving port hundreds of years ago.
I took a moment to pose outside the Grosvenor's clock for a quick photo, you know, to share with all of you. Did you know it's one of the most photographed spots in Chester? It's also one of the only remaining Roman gateways left in England, and it's incredibly impressive! It was built way back in AD79, just imagine all the stories those walls could tell.
After a little wandering, I found myself by The Rows. Honestly, they were even more magical than I could have imagined! Imagine these stunning timber-framed shops that are essentially raised platforms, spanning above the street with stunning arcades – it's like a medieval high-street!
Now, you all know I adore a good ballet performance, so naturally, I had to check out the Theatr Clwyd, Chester’s theatre. Built in 1976 and overlooking the River Dee, I’m told they've got an amazing season of shows planned - I'm seriously considering coming back again later in the year! And let's not forget the dance scene here - with local classes and studios all over, Chester’s buzzing with ballet enthusiasm! I spotted a few cute little tutu-clad ballerinas in a café near the theatre – maybe it's a sign I should be starting a little branch of pink-tutu.com in Chester. Hmm... thoughtful tapping of chin
On my first night in Chester, I felt a little peckish. Luckily, I discovered the Queen’s Head – a pub straight out of my dreams! This delightful little inn had the most delicious roast dinner I’ve ever had - and it was followed by the creamiest panna cotta imaginable, drizzled with berry sauce. Bliss! And after dinner? What better way to spend an evening than watching the swans gliding effortlessly through the River Dee in the twilight?
Of course, I wouldn’t let a trip to Chester pass without taking a stroll through The Grosvenor Park with its beautiful Victorian conservatory and a lake teeming with colourful ducks! Now, I know you know my love for animals, and seeing all these playful ducks just tickled my soul. The sun was setting, painting the sky in vibrant shades of pink and orange, making it the most perfect ending to a perfect day.
Honestly, this place has it all. So if you’re looking for a bit of history, a pinch of fairytale magic, and a touch of pink (I mean, how could you go to a city called Chester without spotting some blush pink roses?), then pack your tutu, darling, and take a little trip to Chester yourself!
So, until next time, darlings, I'll leave you with a little ballet-inspired quote to think about:
"A ballerina’s mind must be quick, light, strong; just like her steps.” – Agnes de Mille.
See you all tomorrow with even more adventures!
