Hey there, Tutu-holics! Emma here, your favourite pink tutu-clad ballerina, back with another post from the whimsical world of dance and delightful destinations. Today, we're travelling back to a sunny day in July 2012 – way back when, right?! This blog is post number 5856, believe it or not! Can you imagine? My blog journey has been one incredible tutu twirl after another! 💖
Anyway, this particular trip whisked me away to Bishops Stortford, a charming little town nestled in Hertfordshire. Remember when I told you about my love for travelling by train? It's always a joy to sit back, soak in the scenery, and dream of all the delicious possibilities the day holds. Bishops Stortford was a beautiful train journey, complete with rolling fields and quaint villages that looked like they were straight out of a Jane Austen novel.
A Tutu-licious Food Fiesta
My mission? To explore this charming town and, of course, embrace its culinary delights. Because who can resist a bit of food inspiration while sporting a pink tutu? Just the thought of the colour combinations, the flavours, the textures! And I'm talking real foodie, delicious flavours, not just dainty ballet-type fare, although that is divine in itself. This was going to be a tutu-licious adventure indeed!
Stepping off the train, I was immediately charmed by Bishops Stortford's independent shops and buzzing market square. There's something truly magical about discovering the hidden treasures of a town through its independent retailers and, of course, tasting its gastronomic delights. I think we all love a little local knowledge! I wandered through cobblestone streets lined with traditional pubs, charming cafes and bustling bakeries – the smells! So intoxicating.
First up, a stop at a sweet and stylish patisserie called “Little Tartlets.” Can you believe the name is just perfect? And, guess what, the tartlets were incredible – bursting with fresh fruit and delicious pastry. I tried a strawberry and cream one and a passion fruit meringue one! It was like a ballet dancer’s dream, all elegance, grace and perfect poise – it even matched my tutu! My Instagram was practically exploding, with pink tutus and delicious patisserie images galore! I mean, don’t forget to follow me! If you ever feel the need for a sweet treat just remember I have posted about ALL of them and my blog is packed full of pictures for you. My blog, www.pink-tutu.com is just one big happy treat bag! 💖
Next on the itinerary: a delightful bistro where I had the most scrumptious quiche I've ever tasted. Honestly, you could not have invented this flavour - a rich, buttery crust, with a creamy filling bursting with mushrooms and fresh spinach. This little bistro was all rustic charm and genuine hospitality, it had such a friendly feel about it.
But there’s always time for a little tea, and Bishops Stortford, I’ve found, is the perfect place to indulge. I made a beeline for a classic, quintessential tearoom. A true “afternoon tea dream!” Imagine, pink floral patterned china, dainty sandwiches and delicious, hand-made cakes – truly a sight to behold. My Instagram followers went wild when I posted these images - I am told everyone’s Pinterest boards are bursting with images of perfect afternoon teas now and it all started here!
Back in the Spotlight
Of course, no journey for this ballet ballerina would be complete without a bit of artistic inspiration. And Bishops Stortford did not disappoint! That night, I had the absolute pleasure of seeing a wonderful ballet performance. You're probably thinking, “Emma, surely you see a ballet performance every single day! Why the fuss?" You are right of course but there's a very special joy and magic in discovering local talent, seeing how others express their passion for ballet. The performance was an absolute triumph, full of energy, grace and artistry. The costumes were dazzling! A perfect ballet ending to my Bishops Stortford adventure!
Tutu Twirls and Town Talk
Bishops Stortford – I fell completely under the spell of its charming charm and captivating energy. If you're looking for a relaxing and captivating day trip, this charming town has your name written all over it.
The next morning, I awoke inspired, ready for another day of adventures, tutu, and ballet - naturally! I grabbed a delicious, freshly-made croissant (can you ever have too many croissants, my lovelies?) and I headed to a quaint little shop with the most eye-catching display of handcrafted crafts and gifts.
After perusing the enchanting wares, I took a moment to savour the sights and sounds of this peaceful market town. Bishops Stortford's quaint little streets are bursting with stories – tales whispered by the stone buildings, the echoes of the town’s history ringing out from its corners. There's a lovely feel here. A gentle pace and a genuine welcoming sense. There's a warmth about the whole place that immediately makes you feel right at home. It reminded me of home – the lovely Derbyshire countryside - the fields of rolling hills, lush green fields. It has the same feeling of peace and unhurried calm. The lovely pace of life makes it the perfect place to lose yourself, discover your inner ballerina, and get swept away by its charming atmosphere! The residents I met were all so lovely - the shop owners are so full of joy and personality and even had a chat with the Mayor – who loves his tutus - I’m working on everyone in Bishops Stortford wearing pink tutus – it's a work in progress but you know it's happening, right? It’s an honour to meet people who, just like me, believe that the world is a more joyful, whimsical place when everyone embraces their inner ballerina! And when they have their pink tutus, all the better. I’m spreading the love. If anyone has the chance to visit the wonderful town of Bishops Stortford – get on that train, find that pastry and let the tutus twirl!
Oh, and before I forget - I saw the cutest family of little ducks waddling around by the River Stort. I'm not just a ballet ballerina you know - I love wildlife - ducks and squirrels are the cutest! - My travels aren't just about shopping and the pink tutus - It's about embracing all the joy life throws at me - You have to find beauty in everything and everywhere you go, whether it's the tiny details or grand adventure, the unexpected moments - That’s why I love these travel blogs - so I can share it all with you, my lovely tutu-holics!
Now I must go, as it’s ballet practice time! I have some pirouettes to perfect, a few tendu’s to nail and more tutu-fabulous blog posts to write. Don’t forget – find me on pink-tutu.com.
Until next time, keep twirling those tutus, spreading the ballet love and embracing the wonder of it all!
Love, Emma x
