Hello, my dearest Tutu Tribe! It's Emma here, your resident pink-tutu-wearing, ballet-obsessed travel blogger, writing to you from the charming town of Bishops Stortford, nestled in the heart of Hertfordshire. Today's journey, my lovelies, is all about combining my passion for the graceful world of ballet with the culinary delights of this quaint town.
It all started this morning, bright and early (don't worry, I had a healthy pink smoothie for breakfast – you can't travel without a decent dose of pink, can you?) when I boarded a quaint, little train in my Derbyshire home. My carriage was the perfect backdrop for a new outfit, darling! It’s my trusty vintage pink tutu with a sprinkle of glittery tulle, teamed with a classic white shirt, and of course, a pair of ruby red ballet shoes, because let's face it, you never know when you might need to unleash your inner prima ballerina on a crowded train, right?
The journey itself was like a dance, as the countryside unfolded around me in shades of emerald green and golden yellow. The world is truly a beautiful stage when you travel with the right attitude, and let’s be honest, who wouldn't want a train ride with a sprinkle of tutus, right? (P.S., If you’re reading this and in Derbyshire, please let’s travel together!).
I finally arrived in Bishops Stortford, a picturesque town where history whispers in every cobblestone and where every corner holds a secret charm. After a quick, yet chic pit stop at the adorable Pink Parlour tea room, it was time to delve into the heart of the ballet scene.
You wouldn’t believe the amount of ballet classes going on here, all hidden in charming studio spaces and even tucked away in cozy halls. My, oh, my! I feel my inner ballerina twitching to try each and every one, but I knew I had to save my dancing shoes for the big event later this evening: A ballet performance at the Harlow Playhouse. I am so excited, you guys! They are showing a brand-new production of The Nutcracker, and honestly, if you're looking for a classic ballet spectacle, this is the one!
Before the performance, I wanted to explore more of Bishops Stortford's culinary scene. It is famous for being a food haven for foodies and local residents, boasting cafes and independent eateries, so I was super excited! I found a quirky little restaurant that was just begging me to visit – The Curious Pantry. They have an eclectic menu, serving the most whimsical and scrumptious dishes I've ever seen, with beautifully plated and unique flavors. And did I mention the desserts, oh my, darling? They were beyond heavenly, I had a slice of raspberry and white chocolate cake that left me in a sugar coma, which is exactly what I need after a long day of exploring!
But alas, no time for a post-dinner nap. I had to hustle over to the Harlow Playhouse, I could practically hear the music playing. My tutu and I strutted into the theatre with all the grace of a prima ballerina. It was packed – this place was bursting with excitement! As the curtain rose, my jaw dropped. It was beyond stunning. I had never seen a ballet quite like it before, and this particular Nutcracker is being hailed as the must-see performance this year. You all have to make time to see it, it truly was breathtaking, and I left completely enchanted.
As the final bows resonated through the theater, I felt my heart overflowing with joy. This is the life, you guys! It’s this – the perfect combination of elegant ballet and good food – that makes my heart sing. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have a date with my notebook and a cup of peppermint tea, and of course, a giant slice of chocolate cake.
Until tomorrow, my lovely tutu lovers!
Emma xxx
P.S. Have any of you visited Bishops Stortford before? What are your favourite spots in this lovely town? Tell me all about them in the comments below! And remember, my dears, wear a tutu and be your happiest, most glamorous selves, because it's all about making memories. Oh, and while you're at it, you can pop over to www.pink-tutu.com, my online home, for even more exciting updates and stories from my fabulous tutu-filled life!
