Hey darlings! It's Emma here, your favourite tutu-touting, pink-loving, ballet-obsessed blogger, checking in from the windswept shores of South Shields!
Can you believe it's already February? Time flies when you're pirouetting your way through life, doesn't it? But fear not, my fellow tutu-enthusiasts, I've got plenty more pink and pliés to share with you all throughout the year. 😉
This weekend, I decided to swap the rolling hills of Derbyshire for the rolling waves of the North East. A change is as good as a holiday, they say, and with the weather in the Peak District looking like a watercolour painting gone wrong (a lot of grey and a dash of drizzle!), it was definitely time for a change of scenery.
And what better way to escape the bleak midwinter than a seaside trip, adorned in the most fabulous tutu, of course! This time, it was a classic black tulle beauty, perfect for twirling under the crisp, bracing North Sea air.
My journey to South Shields started in style, as it always does. This time, I took a train – nothing beats a leisurely trip on the rails, admiring the countryside whizz by while reading a good book (currently lost in the pages of "The Secret Garden," a fittingly nostalgic read for a trip to a seaside town).
Arriving in South Shields, I was greeted by the familiar, fresh salty scent of the sea and the iconic view of the North Sea. The air was exhilarating – think a mixture of crisp, fresh air and a hint of seaweed – so invigorating, it practically made me want to leap for joy (and I almost did, tutu and all!).
After a quick stop at the seaside for a cup of tea and a delicious hot chocolate, it was time to explore the town. I love South Shields' historical charm – it’s so full of character. Cobbled streets, traditional houses, and charming cafes, you could spend hours wandering around, soaking up the atmosphere.
Speaking of history, did you know South Shields was a shipbuilding hub in its heyday? My imagination was running wild with the vision of bustling docks, the sound of hammers, and the thrill of launches! Sadly, no sign of a shipbuilding scene these days (except for a few charming maritime museums).
Of course, the real highlight of any trip to South Shields is the seafront. I couldn't resist taking a brisk walk along the promenade, feeling the wind whip through my hair and the sand crunch under my ballet shoes (yes, I really did dare to wear my pointe shoes, the sheer joy was just too tempting to resist).
Even though it was February, I could imagine the crowds of people flocking to the beaches on a warm summer's day, kids screaming in delight as they chase the waves. I could picture myself, wearing my brightest pink tutu, leading a spontaneous flash mob on the sand, inspiring everyone to twirl, leap and pirouette. Just imagine! 🩰☀️🌊
A trip to South Shields wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the famous South Shields Museum & Art Gallery. They have a brilliant collection of art and artefacts, telling the story of the town and the people who have lived here. I particularly enjoyed seeing the old photographs of South Shields from bygone eras – it was like stepping back in time!
Before heading back to Derbyshire, I treated myself to a delicious afternoon tea at a quaint café tucked away on a back street. Freshly baked scones, a selection of finger sandwiches and a teapot of steaming hot tea – what more could a girl ask for? Especially when the backdrop is such a beautiful, peaceful place!
So, my dear tutu-wearing friends, this is just a taste of my wonderful weekend adventure to South Shields. I’m already planning my next trip – maybe to explore the famous lighthouse, or take a trip out on one of the boats. Perhaps I could even try a spot of seaside paddle boarding (though in my tutu? Hmmm, maybe not… or maybe I'll just find the most pink one available!).
As always, the highlight of this trip was seeing the joy that a touch of pink and a sprinkle of twirls can bring to any day. You never know who you might inspire, just by being yourself and wearing your heart on your tutu. So go on, grab your tutu and step out with confidence! You’ll be surprised what adventures you'll find. 💖
Love,
Emma x
www.pink-tutu.com
