Hello darlings! It's your favourite pink tutu-clad adventurer, Emma, checking in from sunny Didcot! I know what you're thinking, "Didcot? Isn't that just a train station?" And yes, dear readers, you'd be absolutely right. But it was a very special train station for me today.
Now, you see, Didcot has always held a special place in my heart. My dear, dear Granny used to take me on train journeys there all the time, and it was the most magical thing. There's just something about steam engines and Victorian architecture that fills my heart with a sweet sense of nostalgia.
This time, I wasn't just there for a quick trip. I was on a mission, darling! You see, Didcot is the home of the fabulous Didcot Railway Centre - a haven for train enthusiasts, complete with a museum, working railway lines, and a host of beautiful steam engines. But it was something even more magical that lured me there.
It all began, as so many good adventures do, with a tweet. The Didcot Railway Centre, with its adorable sense of whimsy, had announced that they were hosting a ballroom dancing event! Now, you can imagine my excitement! It was the perfect chance to break out my latest pink tutu - a divine creation, ruffled and adorned with the most sparkly sequins - and twirl the day away.
I started my morning with a delicious Derbyshire Oatcake at my favourite local cafe, filling up on enough energy to tackle a day filled with fabulous fun. The train journey, a pleasant three hours to Oxfordshire, gave me plenty of time to ponder my outfit for the grand event. The pink tutu was a no-brainer, of course, but the accessories needed careful consideration.
I finally settled on a pair of white, lace-up ballet flats that had just arrived from my favourite shop in London, paired with a sweet floral hairband and a charming, pastel-pink, knitted cardigan to keep the chill away.
The Didcot Railway Centre welcomed me with open arms and the warm aroma of steam engine oil. The place is truly a haven for any train buff. It felt like stepping back in time. They'd transformed one of the large, airy workshops into a splendid ballroom, complete with chandeliers and beautiful vintage decor.
The ballroom was full of charming gentlemen in suits and beautiful ladies, many twirling with grace and enthusiasm. Some were even wearing vintage ballgowns! As I waltzed to the strains of the string quartet, I felt like a true princess. It was truly magical. I even learned a few waltz steps, although I confess my feet weren't as light as my tutu!
The highlight of the evening was meeting a group of sweet and bubbly dancers, also wearing tutus! We had a giggle fit talking about our love for ballet and sharing tips for staying healthy. It turned out one of the girls was even a wildlife photographer! It was like discovering a kindred spirit in this most unexpected setting.
We ended the night sharing stories and sips of sparkling cider - the perfect way to end a fantastic evening of dancing and steam train nostalgia.
The next day, after a good night's sleep and a delightful breakfast at a quaint little tea room (they had the most incredible pink cakes, darling!), I went for a walk around Didcot.
It's truly a charming little town with hidden gems waiting to be discovered. I strolled through the beautiful Victorian market square, admiring the traditional architecture and peeking into charming independent shops. There's just something about little towns that makes me feel happy and peaceful, you know?
And let's not forget the most exciting part - a surprise encounter with a group of horses in the park! I confess, I just had to go up and pet them. You see, I've always adored horses and dream of learning how to ride. My childhood ambition was to own a beautiful chestnut horse and travel the world in a pink tutu, but that might have been a little ambitious!
My visit to Didcot ended on a sweet note - with a final cup of tea at a little café with the cutest teacups (all adorned with pink roses, naturally!). And as I settled onto the train back to Derbyshire, I couldn't help but think how amazing it is that I get to experience these incredible adventures.
Didcot will always have a special place in my heart - for its train nostalgia, its charming character, and the beautiful pink tutus that added a touch of magic to a weekend in Oxfordshire.
Now, I'll leave you with this: if you ever find yourself with a little free time and a love for vintage railways and fancy dresses, I highly recommend a trip to Didcot. You might just find yourself dancing the waltz in a beautiful ballroom, surrounded by charming gentlemen and bubbly ladies, and even discovering some sweet and unexpected surprises along the way.
Until next time, darling! Don't forget to wear your pink tutu!
Love,
Emma
www.pink-tutu.com
