Helloooo lovelies!
It's your girl, Emma, checking in from sunny Ashington! That's right, my journey took me all the way up North to the land of coal mines and rolling hills (and the most beautiful sunset skies ever!).
So, the story behind this impromptu adventure... I was, of course, on my way to a ballet class – it's practically an essential daily ritual for this tutu-loving Derbyshire girl, right? This time, it was a workshop in the heart of Northumberland. I know what you're thinking: “Emma, Northumberland? What on earth are you doing there?”
Well, I stumbled upon this wonderful studio online. The studio itself was called "The Flying Swan," and, oh my god, let me tell you, it was like a magical oasis! Think wood paneling, big, bright windows, and a whole wall dedicated to posters of ballerinas from the Royal Ballet. Pure magic, darling! They also have an adorable tea room with homemade cake – I’m talking victoria sponge with pink icing and little floral decorations, you guys! It’s officially become my favorite part of any dance day.
Anyway, back to Ashington. I decided to ditch the boring old car for this trip. Nope, not me! I chose a grand adventure by train – a little nostalgic, a little fancy! The views were absolutely breathtaking – think lush green fields and quaint villages all lined with sheep! To be completely honest, I did get distracted by the adorable baby lambs frolicking in the fields… it was absolutely adorable, like fluffy balls of sunshine bouncing around!
Speaking of cuteness overload, my outfit for this day was something special... Imagine a glorious sunshine yellow maxi-skirt, so floaty it looked like it could fly, with a hand-me-down tutu in the palest shade of pink tucked underneath, peeping out at the hem. My feet, of course, were in my favourite sparkly pink ballet slippers – how else would I dance the day away? Oh, and don't forget my new favourite pink beret - found in a vintage shop in Chesterfield just before I left. The beret was adorned with the most beautiful, oversized silk flower you’ve ever seen – and guess what? It was pink too, of course!
The studio was truly buzzing with energy... I met some absolutely incredible dancers from all over the region, from Newcastle to Edinburgh. We talked about all things ballet: pointe work, choreography, new ballets… I even got some amazing tips from the most fabulous instructor, who happened to be a retired principal dancer from the Royal Ballet. I don’t know about you, but learning from an actual ballerina royalty is about the most inspiring experience ever!
Of course, a trip like this wouldn't be complete without some sightseeing... I made sure to explore the charming streets of Ashington - charming, with all those cute independent cafes and bookshops! I found a lovely little tea room, right near the local market, where I enjoyed a proper afternoon tea - scones with clotted cream and strawberry jam, a pot of steaming hot Earl Grey, and a delicate slice of raspberry sponge! I am convinced a proper afternoon tea can solve all the world’s problems, my darlings!
Speaking of charming, Ashington's history just captivated me. Imagine a town built by miners and full of proud working-class history! They have this lovely old theatre, still in operation, with grand old Victorian architecture – the perfect backdrop for my impromptu photoshoot, naturally!
Now, hold onto your tutus… I decided to take this little day trip one step further... Remember those amazing sheep I mentioned earlier? They had their very own special place, right next to the town – it’s called “The Northumberland National Park.”
Let me tell you, those sheep are superstars! Imagine a breathtaking landscape of rolling hills and clear blue skies, and fluffy white sheep munching on grass like it's going out of fashion! My absolute favourite memory from Ashington? Sitting in the meadow, watching the sheep with a cup of warm herbal tea (pink flower tea, of course!). It was the most peaceful and rejuvenating feeling I’ve had in ages… and let’s face it, you need that sometimes!
It's not a trip to a new town without embracing some local talent! Ashington also has this little jewel of a theatre. They call it the Queen’s Hall – how fabulous is that? Anyway, I saw a live show featuring some incredible young singers and musicians from the local community. The energy in the air was just electric. It reminded me of how much we all need the arts – whether it's theatre, ballet, music – to uplift our spirits, inspire us, and just make the world a little brighter.
Before I left, I made sure to stock up on souvenirs - pink everything! I even bought some handmade jewellery at a quaint shop on the High Street, crafted by a lovely woman named Hazel, with bright, beautiful pink crystals – something special, just for me, of course!
I know I always say it, my darlings, but Ashington was the absolute highlight of my week! You know, you never truly know where your journey might take you – the little twists and turns that lead to unexpected places... But just remember, all you need to have a truly fantastic day is to embrace life's simple pleasures! And, of course, a little sprinkle of pink!
Don't forget, visit me at www.pink-tutu.com to join in the fun and see all the other adventures from a pink-obsessed ballerina’s world! Until next time… xoxo Emma
