Post #6326
Oh my darlings, it's your favourite tutu-clad travel blogger, Emma, reporting live from the beautiful and historic town of Stratford-upon-Avon! And guess what? I'm wearing the most divine pink tutu, sparkling with glitter and little fairy wings, that's just perfect for exploring Shakespeare's birthplace. Just picture it: a pink-tutu'd vision swirling through the cobblestone streets, amongst the Tudor architecture and charming shops. What more could a girl ask for?
It was a journey straight out of a fairytale. I started the day in the heart of Derbyshire, my little haven of countryside calm. My trusty steed, the 'Lilian,' a majestic chestnut mare, trotted me through the misty dawn, a pink silk ribbon tied gracefully around her mane. A little known fact - a lot of my travelling around England is actually done on horseback! The wind whipping through my hair, the crisp autumn air, the rhythmic thud of hooves against the ground… it's pure magic. The only thing that would make it better would be if I could teach Lilian a few pirouettes.
Reaching the railway station in the nearby town, I hopped onto a steam train, smelling of coal and history, to head to Stratford. Nothing beats the romance of travelling by train, watching the countryside whizz past with its vibrant autumn hues, a feeling of true adventure!
As I arrived in Stratford, my pink tutu flowing in the wind, I knew it was going to be a special day. After settling into my lovely little cottage, tucked away in a cobbled street, I headed straight to the Royal Shakespeare Company's theatre.
The grandeur of the building was simply stunning! It was just begging to be adorned with pink tutus. I can see it now - a whole troupe of dancers twirling around the stage in a whirlwind of tulle and fairy wings. Imagine the joy and the magic that would radiate throughout the theatre!
For this visit, however, I chose a slightly more understated approach and indulged in an afternoon of afternoon tea with delicate finger sandwiches and scones smothered in clotted cream. It was divine. And for once, no pink tutus were harmed during the consumption of the sugary goodness. 😉
But my Stratford adventure wasn't all about Shakespeare and tea! The real magic unfolded as I explored the town. Imagine this: cobbled streets lined with charming old buildings, bright flower boxes bursting with colours, the smell of fresh pastries from local bakeries wafting through the air.
Everywhere I went, I couldn't help but feel inspired by the spirit of Stratford. It's like the very essence of the town vibrates with artistry and a love for life.
In the afternoon, I discovered a tiny tucked-away antique shop filled with delicate porcelain dolls and vintage photographs. I swear, some of the dolls actually blinked! I'd never seen anything like it.
But the highlight of the day was definitely the chance to visit Anne Hathaway's Cottage, the charming little home where Shakespeare's wife grew up. I can almost picture them, young William and Anne, dancing beneath the willows by the Avon. My heart melted as I envisioned the young love unfolding against the backdrop of such idyllic scenery.
As the evening began to draw in, I made my way to the River Avon, where swans gliding majestically through the waters created ripples that shimmered like pearls. I couldn't resist a little dance myself, spinning gracefully beneath the willow trees, my pink tutu catching the fading light of the sunset. It was like a scene from my favourite fairy tale!
Finally, as darkness descended upon the town, I treated myself to a delicious meal at the oldest pub in Stratford - a traditional English pub filled with cosy fireplaces and friendly locals. The crackling fire warmed my heart as I savoured a delicious stew with crusty bread and a glass of English sparkling wine.
The beauty of Stratford-upon-Avon lies not only in its history and Shakespearean heritage but also in its welcoming spirit and captivating charm. As I left Stratford on the morning train, my heart felt lighter than air, filled with joy and inspiration. I'd left a little pink sparkle in the town and in turn, it had left a magical spell on me.
Remember, my loves, it's never too late to wear your pink tutu, to twirl under a willow tree or even just to dance in the kitchen. Just keep the spirit of Stratford-upon-Avon alive within you!
See you on the next pink-tutu adventure!
Love,
Emma www.pink-tutu.com
